The Blue Wave Could Mean a Rising Tide for Songwriters — Here’s Why (Guest Post)

David Israelite, head of the National Music Publishers’ Association, argues that Democrats’ control of Congress could create new opportunities for songwriters and music publishers. He says new leadership on the House and Senate Judiciary Committees may bring fresh attention to copyright, music licensing and the balance of power between creators and technology companies.

Israelite identifies artificial intelligence as a central challenge, arguing that Congress should set clear rules for using copyrighted work in AI training, require transparency and protect creators’ voices and identities. He also points to old regulations, including a mechanical licence dating to 1909 and consent decrees governing ASCAP and BMI dating to 1941, as areas needing review. He stresses that fair payment for songwriters has bipartisan support, citing the Music Modernization Act, introduced by Democrat Hakeem Jeffries and Republican Doug Collins.