Artists cash in on surge in IMRO royalty payments

Thousands of Irish recording artists such as U2, Hozier, and Christy Moore last year shared a €25m bonanza from the public performance and broadcast of their songs.

In newly filed accounts, the Irish Music Rights Organisation (IMRO), which collects royalties on behalf of artists, confirmed licence revenues last year increased by €2m to €30.7m.

While all revenue categories showed an increase on 2014; public performance — specifically large concert revenue — online and overseas revenue contributed largely to the rise.

The amount in royalties paid out to artists last year increased by 8.5% to €25.26m.

IMRO has 11,000 members. Last year, its surplus after paying royalties amounted to €137,895 and this followed a surplus of €126,051 in 2014.

The royalties received from IMRO are often the sole income received by non-performing songwriters.

Firms are charged a tariff for playing music on multiple lines for callers when they are put on hold while doctors and dentists face annual tariffs from playing recorded music in their waiting rooms.

Numbers employed by IMRO last year fell slightly, to 51, while staff costs were maintained at €3.22m.

Directors’ pay increased, meanwhile, from €219,098 to €263,220.

The board is made up of 15 directors, including several artists, such as Mick Hanly, Eleanor McEvoy, and Charlie McGettigan.