Since April 2024, we have been distributing matched historical royalties for usage that took place during the Phono 3 rate period in sets. For each set of royalties from a given DSP (or DSPs), we first distribute matched historical royalties for previously unpaid uses reported by the DSP(s) concerned, then we aim to distribute matched historical royalties for previously partially paid uses from the same DSP(s) the following month. This month, we distributed the second set of Phono 3 historical royalties from Audiomack in the amount of $136k.
Overall, The MLC has been able to match and distribute more than $228 million — or nearly 58 percent — of the $397 million in previously unmatched historical royalties that DSPs transferred to us in 2021.
Broken down by rate period, we have now distributed:
- 93.2 percent of the previously unmatched historical royalties for uses that took place during the Phono 1 rate period (2008-2012);
- 53.7 percent of the previously unmatched royalties for uses that took place during the Phono 2 rate period (2013-2017); and
- 58.0 percent of the previously unmatched royalties for uses that took place during the Phono 3 rate period (2018-2020).
Consistent with the way we’ve handled matched historical royalties in the past, the matched historical royalties we distributed this month are clearly identified on your royalty statements, and we specify the usage month for these historical royalties just like we do for blanket royalties. As we have always done, we’ve distributed matched historical royalties using the same payee data that we used to distribute blanket royalties (i.e., we’ve distributed royalties to the “current payee” registered in The MLC’s database, as reflected in the snapshot of ownership data we used for this month’s blanket royalty distribution).
What’s Next?
Looking ahead to December, we plan to distribute the first set of matched historical royalties from iHeart. Consistent with our usual process, the December distribution will include the first set — matched historical royalties for previously unpaid uses reported by iHeart. The January distribution will include the second set — matched historical royalties for previously partially paid uses from iHeart. The following table shows our current schedule for processing the remaining Phono 3 historical usage.
Where Can I Learn More?
We will continue to provide monthly recaps and previews about the matched historical royalties we distribute for uses from the Phono 3 period in our monthly Member newsletters.
To catch up on the progress we’ve shared about historical unmatched royalties so far, you can find all the updates here. You can also read an overview on our historical unmatched royalties page (which reflects the most current Phono 3 adjustments) here.
If you have any questions about any of these updates, or anything else related to The MLC, please don’t hesitate to contact our Support Team.