American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP)

The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) is a nonprofit organization that protects the rights of its members, who are songwriters, composers, and music publishers. ASCAP collects licensing fees from businesses that play music, such as radio stations, restaurants, and streaming services. It then distributes these fees to its members as royalties when their music is used. By ensuring that creators are compensated for their work, ASCAP supports the music industry and promotes the creation of new music. Founded in 1914, it plays a crucial role in intellectual property rights within the arts.