Royalty Splits Calculator
Featured-Artist Royalty Split
When a guest performer features on a track, they commonly take an agreed slice of the recording royalties for their contribution. The amount varies with prominence and what the parties agree. The breakdown below is an example to illustrate the math, not a recommended figure.
Estimates are for informational purposes only and are not financial, investment, tax, or legal advice. Actual offers and figures vary by provider, contract terms, and current market conditions.
Example breakdown
An example only — not a recommendation. Here is how 100,000 streams would divide under this sample split, using a blended per-stream estimate range. Swap in your own numbers in the calculator above.
| Collaborator | Role | Share | Per 1,000 streams | Payout @ 100,000 streams |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Main artist | Primary performer | 60% | $1.80 – $3.00 | $180 – $300 |
| Featured artist | Guest verse | 25% | $0.75 – $1.25 | $75 – $125 |
| Producer | Produced the track | 15% | $0.45 – $0.75 | $45 – $75 |
| Total | 100% | $3.00 – $5.00 | $300 – $500 | |
Per-stream rate: blended estimate of $0.0030–$0.0050 per stream — an estimate range, not a fixed payout. Source: Blended across major DSPs weighted toward Spotify-dominant indie listener mixes (as of 2025). Effective rates vary by region and subscriber mix; reconcile against your distributor statements. [verify]
Master vs. publishing
This example divides the recording (master) royalty only. The publishing royalty — paid to songwriters and publishers for the composition — is a separate pool with its own splits. Estimate it with the Publishing Royalty Recovery Diagnostic.
Frequently asked questions
Is this split a recommendation?
No. The percentages shown here are an example to illustrate how the math works for this kind of collaboration. Real splits are commonly negotiated and vary widely — agree your own in writing before release.
What’s the difference between master and publishing splits?
This page divides the recording (master) royalty — what platforms pay for plays of the sound recording. The publishing royalty (songwriter and publisher shares) is a separate pool, collected through different channels, with its own percentages.
What are producer points?
Producer "points" are a share of recording royalties stated in percentage points. They are negotiated per deal, not fixed by any rule, so treat any specific number as an example to discuss rather than a standard.
How accurate are the dollar amounts?
The split percentages are exact arithmetic. The dollar figures use an estimate per-stream range (about $0.0030–$0.0050 blended) because no platform pays a fixed rate — it depends on region, subscriber mix, and reporting period. Use your real distributor payouts for a tighter total.