How New South African Artists Can Submit Their Songs to SAMRO

Aug 13, 2025
2 min read

What Is SAMRO and How Does It Work?

The Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO) is a nonprofit copyright management society founded in 1961. Its main role is to manage performing rights for music creators, including composers, lyricists (authors), and music publishers.

How it works:

Licensing – SAMRO issues licenses to businesses and platforms such as radio, TV, restaurants, clubs, malls, and streaming services for the public use of music.
Collection & Distribution – SAMRO collects license fees from these users and distributes them as royalties to its members.
Global Coverage – Through agreements with over 225 similar societies worldwide, SAMRO ensures members also earn royalties when their music is played internationally.

SAMRO also supports the industry through workshops, training programs, and funding opportunities for musicians.

Why Artists Should Join SAMRO

Protect Your Rights – Ensures you’re paid whenever your music is played publicly.
Automatic Royalties – Royalties are collected and paid without you chasing users.
International Reach – Earn from global plays via international partnerships.
Industry Support – Access to networking, education, and mentorship opportunities.
Financial Benefits – Some members qualify for retirement and funeral cover.

Step-by-Step: How to Register and Submit Songs

1. Check Eligibility You must be a composer, lyricist/author, or music publisher. Your work should be original and completed (it doesn’t have to be released yet).

2. Prepare Your Documents & Fees

South African ID or passport (for foreign nationals).
Application forms: Member Application, Notification of Works, Deed of Assignment.
Application fees: R100 (composers/authors) or R500 (publishers).

3. Apply Online Go to SAMRO’s official website and upload your forms and documents through their portal.

4. Application ReviewOnce approved, you become a Prospective Member and get a reference number.

5. Submit Your WorksUse the Notification of Works form to register your songs. Include titles, credits (composer, author, publisher), and metadata.

6. Start Earning RoyaltiesWhen your works generate at least R100 (composers/authors) or R1,000 (publishers) within three years, you’re upgraded to Associate Member and can receive royalties.

Membership Tiers

1. Prospective Member

Entry-level after application approval.
Cannot receive royalties until your works generate the required earnings.

2. Associate Member

Earn at least R100 (composer/author) or R1,000 (publisher) in royalties in three years.
Can vote at meetings and receive royalties.
Composers/authors get funeral and retirement benefits.

3. Full Member

Achieved after accumulating enough points as an Associate Member.
Can run for board positions and retain all benefits of Associate membership.

Quick Summary Table

Step	Action	Outcome
1	Apply with documents & fees	Become Prospective Member
2	Notify songs	Works tracked for royalties
3	Earn required royalties	Become Associate Member + start benefits
4	Accumulate points	Become Full Member

Conclusion:Joining SAMRO is one of the most important steps for any South African artist who wants to protect their music, earn royalties, and grow professionally. By registering early, you ensure your music is tracked, both locally and internationally, and you gain access to industry benefits and protections.

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