ASCAP Paid Out $1.75 Billion in Royalties in 2025

The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) reported another year of record growth in 2025. The major performance rights organization (PRO) distributed $1.759 billion in royalties last year, compared to $1.69 billion in 2024.

The numbers:

• The PRO earned $1.94 billion in overall revenue in 2025, with the bulk going to rightsholders.

• The money goes primarily to music writers, composers, and publishers.

• Distributions have increased every year since 2021.

• $1.47 billion came from US-licensed performances.

• This is a $74 million year-over-year increase.

• Streaming audio, radio, and general licensing were major drivers of the greater income.

• 80,000 new members joined ASCAP in 2025, raising total membership to 1.1 million.

• Beyoncé, Chappell Roan, Charli XCX, Chris Stapleton, and Dua Lipa are members.

What they said:

• ASCAP CEO Elizabeth Matthews: “ASCAP remains a powerful advocate for creators facing an increasingly uncertain economy and rapidly shifting music landscape. While creators are under attack globally by disruptive technologies and opportunistic private businesses, ASCAP’s sole focus is to serve our members.”