Do DJ Plays Earn You Royalties? Here's What Every Artist Should Know
- Anga Hackula
- Apr 20, 2025
- 2 min read
If you're an artist and you've got DJ friends—or even DJs you don’t know—spinning your music, you might be wondering: "Do I actually earn royalties from DJ plays?" The short answer is: you should, but it's not that simple.
Let’s break it down.
When Music Is Used Publicly, Royalties Should Follow
Whenever a music user—be it a radio station, TV network, club, or DJ—uses music to enhance an experience or generate profit, they’re supposed to pay for the right to do so. That’s where licensing bodies like SAMRO, CAPASSO, or SAMPRA come in.
Take radio and TV for example.They both rely on music to attract and retain audiences. Music enhances content, and because these platforms often make money through advertising, they’re expected to pay licensing fees to use copyrighted music.
The same applies to DJs: they use music to enhance live performances or events—especially if they're getting paid gigs. So, if your music is being played in a club or at a party, you should be getting a cut of that action.
How DJ Licensing Should Work
Here’s what’s supposed to happen:
DJs apply for a license with a body like SAMRO.
They pay an annual fee to legally perform copyrighted music in public spaces.
DJs are also expected to submit setlists—a list of tracks they’ve played during gigs.
Once SAMRO receives those setlists, they process the data and distribute royalties to the rightful songwriters, composers, and publishers.
But here's the catch...
Why Many Artists Don’t Get Paid from DJ Plays
Unfortunately, in practice, many DJs:
Aren’t licensed with SAMRO
Don’t submit setlists regularly (or at all)
That means even if your music is getting a lot of play in the club scene, no setlist = no data = no royalties for you.
What Can You Do as a Musician?
This is what I recommend:
Talk to your DJ friends. Ask if they’re licensed with SAMRO (or your local PRO).
Request they include your tracks in their submitted setlists.
Educate them on how this benefits everyone—it’s not just paperwork, it’s how creators get paid.
If your music is getting DJ support, especially in live settings, this is low-hanging fruit for royalties. All it takes is awareness and action.
Learn More & Get Tools to Protect Your Music
If you found this helpful, I’ve got more like it on my blog. Visit https://musicbizbyskill.com where I share free resources, templates, and blog posts to help you get the most out of your music career.
And if you haven't already, make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel for regular tips on music royalties, licensing, and industry hacks.
Until next time,
Skill
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