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In a landmark move for India's music industry, the Indian Singers' and Musicians' Rights Association (ISAMRA) will distribute 100 crore in royalties to over 26,000 singers and musicians, based on performances of more than 4 lakh tracks that have collectively been played over 4.5 crore times across radio, television, digital platforms and public performances.
The distribution, covering works played up to March 31, 2025, marks one of the largest royalty payouts in the country and reinforces the growing importance of performers' rights in India's evolving music ecosystem and the strength of ISAMRA. ISAMRA (Indian Singers' and Musicians' Rights Association) is India's registered copyright society representing singers and musicians, ensuring they receive music royalties for the use of their performances. The organisation was crucial in establishing singers' rights in India following the 2012 copyright amendments, and more recently, has also worked towards securing the rights of musicians, especially session artistes who have historically remained unrecognised within the royalty framework. Among the top names in the ISAMRA royalty distribution list are Arijit Singh, Kishore Kumar, Lata Mangeshkar, Asha Bhosle, Udit Narayan, Alka Yagnik, Kumar Sanu, Sonu Nigam, Shreya Ghoshal, KK, Diljit Dosanjh, SP Balasubramaniam, Mohammed Rafi, KJ Yesudas, AR Rahman, Daler Mehndi and Shaan, among several others -- a powerful mix of legendary voices and contemporary icons whose music continues to resonate across generations and drive India's music royalties ecosystem. The payout will reach a wide spectrum of artistes across film, folk, devotional and independent music, including singers, musicians, chorus artists and session performers. ISAMRA has also played a key role in creating a more cordial copyright environment in India by signing historic agreements with music labels, thereby avoiding prolonged litigation and recognising each other's rights within the ecosystem, strengthening the music industry in India. In parallel, ISAMRA is building an extensive metadata repository of lakhs of songs performed by artistes, addressing a long-standing gap in India where structured performer data has largely been absent. ISAMRA is also actively reaching out to singers and musicians who remain unaware of their rights, integrating them into the royalty ecosystem and ensuring that payments reach even those who had never imagined benefiting from their past work. Calling the 100 crore payout "not just a number but justice for performers," Sanjay Tandon, Founder and Managing Director, ISAMRA, said the initiative reflects a long-overdue correction in how artistes are valued, adding that it marks a defining cultural moment that acknowledges voices which have shaped and continue to shape India's musical memory. He further emphasised that many singers and musicians who performed in their heyday never dreamt of receiving royalties within their lifetime, a reality now made possible through ISAMRA's sustained efforts. ISAMRA Chairman Anup Jalota described the development as a historic correction, emphasising that royalties are a right, not a privilege, and that the milestone represents years of persistence finally translating into tangible recognition for the fraternity. Echoing the sentiment that now anchors this moment, ISAMRA Director Sonu Nigam said, "This move goes beyond applause. It gives performers a financial identity. For years, recognition came in the form of love and appreciation, but this ensures dignity and sustainability. It acknowledges that the voices behind the songs are not just remembered, but rightfully rewarded." ISAMRA Director Shaan added that the industry is finally moving from mere recognition to real protection of artistes, stating that the scale of this ISAMRA royalty distribution sends a clear message that performers' rights in India are strengthening and here to stay. This 100 crore distribution is more than a financial milestone. It is a cultural shift -- one that places creators firmly at the centre of the industry they have built and sustained. The distribution of royalties collected for over 4 lakh tracks played over 4.5 crore times once again reiterates ISAMRA's position as the numero uno organisation in India's music royalty ecosystem, ensuring that singers and musicians receive their rightful due while strengthening performers' rights and music royalties in India. (ANI)
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