Several Benefits for Musicians by Joining JAMMS

The Jamaica Music Society (JAMMS) is encouraging players in the local music fraternity to become members of the performance rights organisation to ensure protection and royalties for their creative works.

Speaking at a virtual forum on Wednesday (April 24) as part of activities to mark Intellectual Property (IP) Week, General Manager for JAMMS, Evon Mullings, said that joining the society is a crucial step for musicians seeking to maximize revenue from their creations.

He noted that musicians should view royalty payments as a form of pension that they will continue to benefit from even when they are no longer performing on stages or making music.

“This is not money that is just available to persons who are current in their careers or who are on a high. This an avenue of making money for persons who have long past the peak of their careers and have a catalogue of music and…once it is a good or sizable catalogue, it will typically be earning and generating royalties somewhere. There are [many] persons who are now able to benefit from the inflows from their works without even having to release any current work, so it’s a form of pension in that sense and we encourage persons to sign on,” Mr. Mullings said.

He noted that while there are financial gains for musicians who join JAMMS, there are non-monetary benefits as well.

“We are more than just royalties; we offer life insurance to our members [and] we have an arrangement with one of Jamaica’s leading insurance providers. Through that arrangement, members can access life insurance without hassle, you can [also] access health insurance. We have negotiated very favourable terms and premiums on your behalf, and we have seen several members and their beneficiaries [receiving support],” he said.

Mr. Mullings pointed out further that by joining JAMMS, musicians also add an extra level of validity to their profession, which can be useful when conducting official business.

“So, when you go to apply for a visa, for instance, typically a letter from us assists with that process. We’re not saying this guarantees your visa, let’s be clear, but it assists because we are recognised by the various embassies and high commissions. So, when you present a letter showing that you are or have been a member and you’re established, that assists,’ he pointed out.

Persons may contact JAMMS by calling (876) 978-1010 / (876) 369-5325 or by sending an email to info@jammsonline.com.

IP Week, which runs from April 21 to 28, is being organised by the Jamaica Intellectual Property Office (JIPO) under the theme: ‘IP & the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Building Our Common Future with Innovation and Creativity’.