ASCAP (The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers) has elected Alisa Coleman, currently Chief Operating Officer at ABKCO Music & Records, Inc., as a publisher member of its Board of Directors.
The announcement was made by ASCAP President and Chairman Paul Williams, who emphasized the organization’s unique governance structure.
Williams added: “Alisa is a strong advocate for songwriters and publishers and will bring her expertise to ASCAP’s Board at a time we are navigating complex issues in our industry, from Artificial Intelligence to licensee efforts to resist paying for music.”
“ASCAP is the only U.S. performing rights organization governed by democratically elected songwriter, composer and publisher members, who have the best interests of the membership at the core of our decision-making.”
ASCAP President and Chairman Paul Williams
Added Williams: “We look forward to adding her voice as we work together to protect the value of our members’ music.”
Coleman has built a career over several decades in the music business. As COO of ABKCO, she oversees business strategy, revenue growth and daily operations.
She is credited with strengthening ABKCO’s global rights management and maximizing revenue across both traditional and digital platforms.
Her appointment comes as ASCAP continues to report record financial performance. In 2024, ASCAP reported the organization generated revenues of $1.835 billion, with $1.696 billion distributed to artists, songwriters, and music publishers.
Elsewhere, earlier this year, ASCAP reached a settlement agreement with the Radio Music License Committee (RMLC), resulting in higher royalty rates paid by almost 10,000 commercial terrestrial radio stations in the U.S.
The organization also announced a strategic partnership with French counterpart SACEM, which includes sharing technologies, extending digital licensing, uniting member creators, and launching a new AI task force.
In addition to Coleman’s election to the Board of Directors, ASCAP recently promoted Nicole George-Middleton to EVP & Head of Creative Membership, underscoring the organization’s ongoing focus on strengthening leadership and creative advocacy across its membership.Music Business Worldwide