PRO, Taxi submissions, chicken before the egg?

[GPDoc]

I've been checking out details about PRO membership, decided I will want to go with BMI, however I also saw where BMI might reject membership if one does not have a music production history. I've also got the idea that if a deal is obtained through submission in TAXI, that payment will only be through your PRO. The question is for a first submission, how does it work? Can one submit and be forwarded by taxi, be offered a deal prior to membership in BMI; then is it safe to assume that by being offered this ageement, then BMI will allow membership? Any and all input is greatly appreciated. Thanks.

[cassmcentee]

I recommend signing with the PRO now!
You could loose a "deal" by not being already registered.
Cheers,
Cass

[GPDoc]

My concern is that if I try to register with BMI, and if I am declined due to lack of a track record, would they impose a waiting period before I could reapply? Then if I had an opportunity for a contract, would the waiting period interfere with BMI registration. I guess if that were the case I could try another PRO to get things going.

[AlanHall]

I joined BMI a few months ago - in January, right after I joined TAXI, to be precise! - and I didn't read or hear about any 'vetting' process. I'm not sure where you're getting that from. I think you'll be alright.

[GPDoc]

Cool Alan. I got that info from a google search, but your experience sounds great. So I guess I'll Ssgn up with BMI right away. I am hoping to have a song ready to submit by tomorrow. I have no idea how that's going to work as far as how to get my song file to TAXI. Guess I'll cross that bridge soon enough.

[GPDoc]

I recommend signing with the PRO now!
You could loose a "deal" by not being already registered.
Cheers,
Cass

Thanks Cass. I'll be giving it a try.

[AlanHall]

I typed "BMI can reject my application" into the search bar. I got a bunch of hits about being overweight, and then a few from BMI on handling rejection. I'm not sure how scientific my research is

Be advised - you want to sign up as a writer, not as a publisher. Just wanted to make sure that's straight!

[cosmicdolphin]

JFDI

They need your PRO reference number when you sign music to a Library. First thing I did when I joined Taxi - didn't NEED it for 6 months but when the time came it was there. Never heard of folks being declined.

Mark

[hummingbird]

I am hoping to have a song ready to submit by tomorrow. I have no idea how that's going to work as far as how to get my song file to TAXI. Guess I'll cross that bridge soon enough.

log into TAXI's website and look for your member page. You upload your music to the music page (an mp3) and enter lyrics (if any) there as well. Once the track has uploaded and is visible there, you go to the listings and find the one you want to submit to. When you click on 'submit' a listing of your tracks come up. Pick the one(s) you want to submit (up to 3 on one submission (you can submit more on another submission)) and follow the instructions. You'll get an email confirmation once it's complete.

HTH and good luck!

[GPDoc]

Tons of thanks to all who answered. I have submitted my application to BMI, they say they respond in three to five days. Man, haven't had to read that much in a long time. First time through the contract looked a little screwy, but second time through it made more sense. Anyways, thanks again!