The music publishing industry in New York plays a critical role in managing the rights of songwriters, musicians, and record labels. Companies operating in this space are involved in various activities ranging from royalty collection to licensing and rights management. With the rise of digital streaming platforms, there is a growing emphasis on technology solutions to enhance transparency and efficiency in royalty distribution. This transformation helps creators secure fair payment for their work. As music consumption continues its evolution, firms are increasingly adopting novel strategies to optimize revenue streams and support artists in navigating this fast-paced landscape.

This list features a mix of companies specializing in music publishing and rights management, showcasing a range of company sizes from small teams to large organizations. Founded from 1927 to 2017, these companies are headquartered primarily in New York City, reflecting the vibrant music culture of the area. Their services encompass rights management, royalty collection, and global distribution tailored to artists, producers, and media enterprises. Noteworthy names include Kobalt Music and Primary Wave, both of which demonstrate the industry’s adaption with substantial funding that underscores their growth potential.

Read on to explore the top music publishing companies in New York.

Top 21 Music Publishing Companies in New York

1. Kobalt Music

• Website: kobaltmusic.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 47%, United Kingdom (UK) 43%, Germany 2%, Other 8%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), $716.5M, March 2024
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: kobalt-music-group

Kobalt Music Group, Ltd. is a prominent music publishing and rights management company based in New York City. Established in 2000, Kobalt has carved out a niche by providing innovative technology solutions tailored for artists, songwriters, and publishers. The company emphasizes transparency and efficiency in royalty collection, which is vital in the current digital landscape where music consumption is rapidly evolving. Kobalt operates on a global scale, with a workforce that spans across the United States, the United Kingdom, and other countries. They manage a catalog of over 700,000 songs, representing a roster that includes high-profile artists and songwriters such as Paul McCartney, Stevie Nicks, and Max Martin. Kobalt's technology platform is designed to track and collect royalties from the myriad of micro-payments generated in digital music today. The company has also launched AMRA, a global digital music collection society, further solidifying its role in maximizing value for creators. Recent funding efforts, including a $716.5 million investment in March 2024, highlight Kobalt's commitment to enhancing its technology and expanding its footprint in the music publishing industry.

2. Primary Wave

• Website: primarywave.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, Other 3%
• Latest funding: $1.7B, October 2022
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: primary-wave-music

Primary Wave Music is a music publishing and talent management firm based in New York City, established in 2006. The company specializes in managing the rights of iconic artists and songwriters, including legends like Bob Marley, John Lennon, and Kurt Cobain. Primary Wave not only focuses on music publishing but also offers services in marketing, film and television production, and digital marketing. They work closely with both established artists and emerging songwriters, aiming to create impactful opportunities in the music industry. Their catalog boasts over 1,000 Top 10 singles and more than 400 #1 hits, reflecting their significant influence. In 2022, Primary Wave secured $1.7 billion in funding, which highlights their growth potential and the confidence investors have in their business model.

3. Downtown Music

• Website: downtownmusic.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 67%, Netherlands 18%, United Kingdom (UK) 8%, Other 6%
• Latest funding: $775.0M, December 2024
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: downtownmusic

Downtown Music Holdings, based in New York City, is a modern music rights management and services company that has been operational since 2007. Initially established as a music publishing entity, Downtown has expanded its offerings to include royalty collection, digital distribution, and comprehensive rights management services. The company manages over 20 million music assets across more than 145 countries, catering to a wide range of clients from emerging artists to established labels. Downtown Music is dedicated to building a fair and equitable music industry, advocating for creators and their partners. Their portfolio includes notable brands such as CD Baby, FUGA, and Songtrust, which collectively enhance their service capabilities. The company has also received significant funding, with a recent amount of $775 million, reflecting strong market confidence in their business model and growth potential.

4. The Music Sales Group

• Website: musicsales.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1938
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: music-sales

The Music Sales Group, now part of Wise Music Group, is a prominent music publisher based in New York City. Established in 1938, the company has built a substantial catalog that spans various genres, including classical and popular music. It operates internationally, with a network of offices in key markets such as the United States, Europe, and Asia. The Music Sales Group is known for its commitment to music education, providing resources and licensing solutions tailored for educators, students, and media companies. Its subsidiaries include well-known imprints and publishing houses, which contribute to its extensive catalog. The company also engages in book publishing related to music and operates record labels, further diversifying its offerings in the music industry.

5. Spirit Music Group

• Website: spiritmusicgroup.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $800.0M, March 2023
• Founded year: 1995
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: spirit-music-group

Spirit Music Group, established in 1995 and based in New York City, operates as a music publisher with a strong emphasis on music licensing. The company serves a variety of clients, including artists, producers, and businesses, facilitating the necessary rights for music usage while safeguarding the interests of the artists involved. Their roster features prominent names such as Pete Townshend, Tim McGraw, and Salt N' Pepa, showcasing their involvement with high-profile talent. Spirit Music Group's operations extend beyond mere publishing; they actively engage in connecting clients with music for various projects, which is essential in today's entertainment landscape. The company recently secured $800 million in funding in March 2023, highlighting its ongoing relevance and potential for growth in the music publishing sector.

6. Downtown Music

• Website: dmpgroup.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: $2.5M, January 2006
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: downtownmusicpublishing

Downtown Music Holdings, based in New York City, is a modern music publishing and distribution company that provides essential services to creators and rights holders. Founded in 2007, Downtown Music has grown to represent over 20 million songs across more than 145 countries. The company offers a suite of services including global digital distribution, licensing, and rights management tools, which empower artists to manage their music effectively and receive fair compensation. Downtown Music works with a wide range of clients, from emerging songwriters to established performers, and is dedicated to fostering a more equitable music ecosystem. Their portfolio includes notable brands such as CD Baby, Songtrust, and FUGA, which enhance their capabilities in distribution and rights management. The company is also active in advocacy efforts, promoting initiatives that support creators and their partners in the music industry.

7. The Royalty Network, Inc.

• Website: roynet.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Brooklyn, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: the-royalty-network

The Royalty Network, Inc., based in Brooklyn, New York, is a music publishing company that has been operational since 1994. With a workforce of approximately 32 employees, the company specializes in music rights management and licensing, catering to a variety of media platforms such as advertising, film, and television. The Royalty Network represents a wide range of artists and songwriters, ensuring they receive fair compensation for their work. The company is dedicated to educating its clients about the intricacies of the music publishing industry, copyright ownership, and the importance of avoiding unfavorable deals. Their catalog includes over 700,000 compositions, featuring contributions from prominent artists and songwriters. The Royalty Network has been recognized in industry publications like Billboard and The Hollywood Reporter, highlighting their expertise and commitment to client rights. Their involvement in high-profile placements, including campaigns for brands like Target and BMW, as well as films such as "Black Panther" and "Creed 2," further underscores their active role in the music publishing landscape.

8. HFA/Rumblefish

• Website: harryfox.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: July 2015
• Founded year: 1927
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: the-harry-fox-agency

HFA/Rumblefish, also known as The Harry Fox Agency, is a prominent music rights management and licensing agency based in New York City. Founded in 1927, the company specializes in mechanical licensing and royalty collection, serving as a vital link between music publishers and digital distributors. HFA offers a suite of services designed to help clients navigate the complexities of music rights, including an online platform for obtaining licenses and managing royalties. Their Rumblefish division provides data, licensing, and royalty administration services, further enhancing their capabilities in the music industry. HFA's extensive database connects music users with rightsholders, ensuring that royalties are efficiently distributed to music creators. The agency's commitment to simplifying and centralizing licensing processes makes it a key player in the music publishing sector.

9. MPL Communications, Inc.

• Website: mplcommunications.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 45%, United States (USA) 36%, Canada 9%, Other 9%
• Founded year: 1968
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: mpl-communications-inc.

MPL Communications, Inc., based in New York City, is a private music publishing company founded in 1968. The firm specializes in licensing music for various media, including film, television, web content, CDs, and live performances. MPL manages a catalog that features iconic artists such as Paul McCartney, Buddy Holly, and Carl Perkins, among others. The company primarily serves businesses in the entertainment and media sectors, providing them with legal access to music for their projects. MPL's operations include managing music rights and facilitating the licensing process, ensuring that clients can navigate the complexities of music usage in commercial contexts. With a small team of around 33 employees, MPL maintains a significant presence in the music publishing industry, particularly in the licensing domain.

10. Virgin Records America, Inc.

• Website: virginrecords.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1986
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: virgin-records-america-inc-

Virgin Records America, Inc., founded in 1986 and based in New York City, operates as part of the Virgin Music Group. The company specializes in music publishing, distribution, and artist management, providing essential services to artists and music labels. With a workforce of approximately 45 employees, Virgin Records America is dedicated to helping clients navigate the complexities of the music industry. The company boasts a roster of artists spanning various genres, showcasing its commitment to fostering musical talent. Virgin Records America plays a crucial role in connecting artists with audiences, ensuring that their music reaches the right platforms and listeners. The recent merger with Ingrooves to form Virgin Music Group highlights their ambition to adapt and thrive in a competitive market, further solidifying their position in the music publishing sector.

11. Sony Music Entertainment

• Website: sonymusic.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 37%, United Kingdom (UK) 11%, Germany 8%, Other 45%
• Latest funding: May 2019
• Founded year: 1929
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: sony-music-entertainment

Sony Music Entertainment, founded in 1929 and headquartered in New York City, is a prominent music entertainment company that specializes in music production, distribution, and artist management. With a workforce of approximately 8,766 employees, the company operates globally, with significant presence in the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, France, and India. Sony Music serves a wide array of customers, including music listeners and artists, by providing platforms for music access and career development. The company is also involved in various media projects, such as podcasts and documentaries, showcasing its commitment to expanding its influence beyond traditional music distribution. Through its numerous labels and content divisions, Sony Music plays a crucial role in the music publishing sector, managing a vast catalog of songs and supporting artists in their creative endeavors.

12. Terrorbird Media, LLC

• Website: terrorbird.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Brooklyn, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: terrorbird-media-llc

Terrorbird Media, LLC, founded in 2006 and based in Brooklyn, New York, is a private music licensing and publishing company. With a team of 24 employees, Terrorbird specializes in representing independent artists and record labels. They provide a range of services, including sync licensing, custom music creation, and music promotion. The company is dedicated to helping clients navigate the complexities of music rights while maximizing revenue opportunities. Terrorbird's clientele spans various entertainment sectors, including television, film, and advertising, reflecting their active engagement in the industry. They have built a reputation for championing left-of-center voices and have successfully secured placements for their artists in numerous high-profile projects. Their publishing division focuses on protecting copyrights, tracking royalties, and ensuring that songwriters retain ownership of their work, which is crucial in today's music industry.

13. VP Records

• Website: vprecords.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Queens, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 83%, United Kingdom (UK) 11%, Brazil 6%
• Founded year: 1979
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: vp-records

VP Records, based in Queens, New York, is a family-owned record label and music distributor that specializes in reggae and dancehall music. Founded in 1979 by Vincent and Patricia Chin, the company has grown to become a pivotal force in the global reggae scene. VP Records not only releases music but also provides comprehensive services such as artist management, licensing, and music publishing. They have a rich catalog that includes both contemporary and legacy artists, ensuring a broad appeal to fans of Caribbean music. The company operates multiple labels, including Greensleeves Records and 17 North Parade, and has a distribution arm known as VPAL Music. With a presence in major markets like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Jamaica, VP Records continues to support artists in reaching wider audiences while promoting the cultural significance of reggae and dancehall music.

14. Raleigh Music Group

• Website: raleighmusicgroup.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: raleigh-music-group

Raleigh Music Group, based in New York City, is a private music publisher that specializes in music licensing and royalty collection. Founded in 2015, the company serves songwriters, artists, and music supervisors, helping them optimize their revenue and manage their music rights effectively. With a small team of industry experts, Raleigh Music Group emphasizes a high-touch service model, ensuring that their clients receive personalized attention. They have built a global royalty collection network that spans over 75 countries, allowing them to track and collect royalties efficiently. The company has made strategic moves in the industry, including recent signings of emerging artists and the acquisition of significant song catalogs, such as that of Alan Jay Lerner. Their focus on modern technologies and creative approaches to music promotion positions them as a relevant player in the music publishing landscape.

15. AntiFragile Music

• Website: antifragilemusic.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), July 2024
• Founded year: 2017
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: antifragilemusic

AntiFragile Music, established in 2017 and based in New York City, is a music label and artist management company dedicated to supporting independent artists and songwriters. Founded by Tom Sarig, a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience in the music and film industries, the company aims to create a transparent and artist-friendly environment. AntiFragile Music specializes in marketing, music publishing, and sync licensing, providing essential services that help artists navigate the competitive music landscape. They operate a music publishing division that collaborates with a select group of songwriters, ensuring that they retain ownership of their songs while benefiting from comprehensive publishing administration. The company has built a strong partnership with Kobalt Music Publishing, enhancing their ability to collect royalties and secure sync opportunities for their artists. With a focus on innovative marketing strategies and a commitment to artist development, AntiFragile Music is positioned to make a significant impact in the music publishing industry.

16. Jingle Punks

• Website: jinglepunks.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 96%, Canada 4%
• Latest funding: Series A, $900,000, May 2010
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: jingle-punks

Jingle Punks, founded in 2008 and based in New York City, operates as an audio creative agency under the ownership of Anthem Entertainment. The company specializes in music production and brand creative services, catering to clients across the media and entertainment industries. With a catalog boasting nearly 500,000 songs, Jingle Punks provides tailored audio solutions that meet the specific needs of their clients. They have developed a digital platform known as the Jingle Player, which allows users to search and access music efficiently. The company has also been recognized for its innovative projects, including a podcast that received nominations for the Webby Awards. Jingle Punks has a team of music supervisors, composers, and technologists dedicated to delivering high-quality audio content. Their work spans various formats, including production music and podcasts, showcasing their adaptability and commitment to the industry.

17. Roc Nation

• Website: rocnation.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 90%, United Kingdom (UK) 6%, Brazil 2%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: roc-nation

Roc Nation is an entertainment company based in New York City, founded in 2008 by Jay-Z. It specializes in music production, talent management, and media production, serving a wide array of artists and athletes. The company is known for its comprehensive approach to artist representation, offering services that include professional management, promotional support, and music publishing. Roc Nation has built a reputation for fostering talent across genres, with notable artists like Megan Thee Stallion and Lil Uzi Vert under its umbrella. In addition to music, Roc Nation is involved in philanthropic efforts and has expanded into sports management, representing athletes in various sports. The company has not reported any recent funding, indicating a self-sustaining business model. Roc Nation's publishing division plays a significant role in its operations, contributing to the overall success of its artists and the company itself.

18. ONErpm

• Website: onerpm.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Brazil 43%, United States (USA) 17%, Mexico 10%, Other 30%
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: onerpm

ONErpm, founded in 2010 and based in New York, is a private music distribution service that specializes in digital distribution, marketing, and publishing solutions for artists and labels. With a workforce of approximately 716 employees, the company operates in multiple countries, including significant presence in Brazil, the USA, and Mexico. ONErpm aims to empower music creators by providing them with tools to engage fans and effectively manage their careers in a competitive digital environment. Their services include music distribution, rights management, and analytics, which are crucial for artists to understand their performance and maximize revenue. Additionally, ONErpm's ONE Publishing division partners with performing rights organizations globally to ensure artists can claim their rights and collect royalties efficiently. This comprehensive approach to artist support positions ONErpm as a significant player in the music publishing industry.

19. ABKCO Music & Records, Inc.

• Website: abkco.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 95%, United Kingdom (UK) 5%
• Founded year: 1958
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: abkco-music-%26-records-inc.

ABKCO Music & Records, Inc. is a private music label based in New York City, established in 1958. The company specializes in music production, licensing, and the distribution of soundtracks and albums. With a catalog that features iconic artists such as Sam Cooke, The Rolling Stones, and The Animals, ABKCO has made significant contributions to the music industry. They cater to both consumers and businesses, providing a range of services that include licensing music for films and television. Their recent activities include remastering classic albums and releasing soundtracks for contemporary films, showcasing their commitment to preserving musical heritage while remaining relevant in today's market.

20. litMUS Music

• Website: litmusmusic.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), August 2022
• Founded year: 2022
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: litmusmusic

litMUS Music is a music rights management company based in New York, with additional offices in Los Angeles. Founded in 2022 by Hank Forsyth and Dan McCarroll, the company specializes in acquiring and managing music rights across various genres and eras. It serves artists, songwriters, and producers, providing expertise in navigating the complexities of music rights to ensure proper compensation and recognition. Notably, litMUS Music has made headlines for its partnerships and acquisitions, including significant portfolios from artists like Katy Perry and Keith Urban, as well as a collection of compositions from benny blanco. This activity highlights the company's commitment to building a substantial presence in the music publishing sector.

21. amra

• Website: amra.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 68%, United States (USA) 23%, Germany 10%
• Latest funding: June 2015
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: amra-music

amra, founded in 2014 and based in New York City, is a music licensing platform that specializes in global royalty collection and administration for songwriters and publishers. The company operates with a clear mission: to maximize royalty collections by eliminating intermediaries, which leads to faster payments and higher earnings for their clients. With a focus on transparency, amra offers 100% audit rights to its clients, reinforcing trust in their operations. The company has established licensing agreements with over 29 digital streaming providers, covering more than 200 territories worldwide. In recent years, amra has processed over 30 billion usage lines and distributed nearly $200 million in digital royalties, showcasing their significant impact in the music publishing industry. Their leadership team brings extensive experience from various sectors, enhancing their strategic approach to royalty management.

Music Publishing Insights: Key Companies in New York

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