The UK music licensing company shared out to 139,000 artists and rightsholders, including 6,400 new performers.

PPL has paid out a total of £96.7 million to 139,000 performers and recording rightsholders in Q2 2025. This money came primarily from public performances and broadcast licensing. It also includes royalties collected by PPL’s partner organisations in other countries when UK music is played abroad, such as in France, the Netherlands, Japan, Norway and the US.

While the amount is a 6.75% year-over-year decrease from Q2 2024 (which was a record quarter), it’s still a major payout- showing how important licensing can be for artists and rightsholders.

It also brings PPL’s total payouts for the year so far to £167.8 million.

“At PPL our purpose is to ensure that our members’ talent and investment is fairly rewarded when their recorded music is broadcast or played in public places in the UK and around the world… We’re proud to collect revenue on their behalf and help ensure reformers and recording rightsholders are fairly rewarded for their work.”

Chris Barton, Chief Financial Offer at PPL

First payments and familiar names

Out of the 139,000 people paid in Q2, 6,400 received a payment for the first time. That means their music was licensed for use in public, whether that be on TV, radio, or in a public space, and were registered with PPL who collected and paid out the royalties.

Among the many familiar artists benefiting is Cat Burns, whose popular tracks “Go” and “People Pleaser” continue to rack up plays in the UK, US, France, and Denmark. She said:

“PPL has played an important role in my journey. As things have grown, it’s meant a lot to know that they’re making sure I’m paid properly when my songs are played in public or broadcast, in the UK and abroad.”

Why it matters

Music licensing remains an important way in which artists can earn additional income beyond just royalties. It can often be overlooked, but it’s a solid way to gain a consistent source of income for many artists- especially those that get regular airplay.

So, whether you’re getting started or have a deep catalogue, it’s worth paying attention to licensing. There could just be money in it for you too.

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