We know Justin Bieber, Beyonce, and Bruno Mars make a lot of money, but how about the people that write their songs?
Thanks to Rodney Jerkins, the producer behind “As Long As You Love Me” by Justin Bieber, we have some insider information on the kind of money that a songwriter behind a hit song is making, and it’s completely unbelievable.
During a convention for songwriters and artists, Jerkins took the stage and candidly discussed royalties with the audience. Jerkins described a writer named Andre Lindall whom he lured into working with him based on his connections with artists like the aforementioned Justin Bieber.
“He left Norway, and he came to the States…to live the American Dream,” shared Jerkins. “To hit the studio and potentially work with Justin Bieber.”
After delivering on his promise to connect the aspiring writer with Bieber, Jerkins and Lindall actually went on to write and produce Bieber’s hit song, “As Long As You Love Me.” Lindall received a 20% royalty for his contribution.
Although the song became a top ten hit, the royalties only equaled $149,000 after three years. “The song played on the radio, it had 347,820 spins,” said Jerkins. “The royalty amount on that alone was $53,000.”
The most shockingly low number came from a music and video streaming provider, YouTube.
“YouTube: 34,220,900 spins earned him [Lindall] $218.17,” revealed Jerkins.
Something clearly needs to change in the music industry so that the creative talents behind the huge names like Bieber get the recognition they deserve!
