Sony Music Publishing vs. Universal Music Publishing

Sony Music x UMG

When it comes to music publishing, Sony Music Publishing and Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) are two of the biggest and most influential players in the industry. Both companies manage extensive catalogs, represent top-tier artists, and provide services like royalty collection and song licensing.

However, there are key differences in their approach, business models, and contract structures that can influence an artist’s decision when choosing a publishing partner.

Sony Music Publishing vs. Universal Music Publishing: The key differences

Sony Music Publishing, currently the largest music publisher globally, is a subsidiary of Sony Corporation, a multinational conglomerate with interests spanning from electronics to entertainment. Sony’s dominance in the publishing world grew significantly after its acquisition of EMI Music Publishing in 2012, allowing it to manage the rights to music by legendary artists like The Beatles, Bob Dylan, and Elton John, in addition to modern stars like Ed Sheeran and Alicia Keys.

In comparison, Universal Music Publishing Group operates under the umbrella of Universal Music Group, the world’s largest record label. UMPG’s catalog features artists such as Taylor Swift, Drake, Billie Eilish, and Kanye West. While slightly smaller than Sony, UMPG’s innovative approach to the digital music space, combined with its ties to UMG, makes it a major force in both the publishing and recording industries.

Terms and Contracts

When it comes to contract terms, both Sony and UMPG offer exclusive publishing deals, where the songwriter grants the publisher the right to manage and license their music in exchange for royalties. The key differences lie in the length of the contracts, royalty splits, and the flexibility they offer.

Sony Music Publishing typically offers longer-term contracts, often spanning 10 years or more. These contracts are designed to provide stability and global exposure for the songwriter, ensuring royalties are collected from all sources - such as radio play, streaming services, and licensing in movies or advertisements. Sony tends to offer 50/50 royalty splits, but these can vary depending on the artist’s leverage and fame.

UMPG is often more flexible with its contract terms, offering shorter deals (3-5 years) with renewal options and higher advances tailored to artists. Its royalty splits are competitive, and it emphasises working closely with emerging voices. However, many artists - including major stars - have faced hidden contract extensions, aggressive recoupment demands, and loss of control over their copyrights. For instance, Black Sheep sued UMG over hidden royalty practices, and The Cranberries accused the company of underreporting digital income.

Monetunes

Monetunes takes a different approach to music publishing.

Contracts last just one year, giving artists the freedom to renew or leave without long-term obligations. There are no upfront fees; instead, Monetunes collects a small 15% share only from unclaimed royalties, leaving existing revenue streams untouched. The platform is fully transparent, allowing artists to track their earnings in real time with no hidden charges.

Monetunes also actively provides sync placement opportunities, ensuring that even smaller deals ($1,000–$2,000) receive attention - unlike major publishers, who often reject them right away due to allocating more resources to bigger artists.

Monetunes is the modern alternative to traditional publishing deals. With Monetunes, you get a partner who puts YOUR needs first - no upfront or hidden fees, just a commitment to maximizing the value of your music.

Get started on Monetunes for free: https://app.monetunes.com/signup