Ecad is the Central Collection and Distribution Office, a private, non-profit institution, responsible for collecting and distributing copyrights for public performance of music played throughout Brazil, whether national or foreign. Administered by seven music associations (Abramus, Amar, Assim, Sbacem, Sicam, Socinpro and UBC), Ecad is a world reference in the area in which it operates and forms with these companies the collective management of music in Brazil, which completes 48 years of existence in 2025.
We work as the link that connects composers, interpreters, musicians, editors and record producers to the channels and spaces where music plays in Brazil. Ecad is present throughout the country, combining efficient management and technology to unite the different parts of a complex production chain.
Brazil is one of few countries in the world where the collection and distribution of music copyrights rely on a single institution that centralizes this work on behalf of the associations that represent composers and artists. This is very representative for our institution and gives us the responsibility to expand and reinforce everyone’s awareness about copyright payments and the importance of licensing for the use of music in Brazil.
The definition of the amount charged for copyright takes into account factors such as the place where the music is played, its importance for the business, the branch of economic activity, the type of musical use and socioeconomic region of the commercial establishment.
Distribution
Of the amounts collected, 85% are passed on to composers, performers, musicians and other holders. Another 6% stay with music associations. The remaining 9% is transferred to Ecad.
Technology
Constant investments in technological solutions and innovation guarantee even more agility and precision in the distribution of copyrights, with the use of state-of-the-art technology.
Brazilian music crosses borders and is recognized around the world
Therefore, our challenge is to carry out an increasingly effective work
In the last decade, there has been a growth in Brazil of more than 130% in the amounts distributed in copyright to music holders. This represents an important achievement for copyright. More than R$8.2 billion were distributed to 470 thousand authors and artists. This shows how the work of collective management has been strengthening the artistic class.
The number of composers and artists who have received their music copyright has also grown over the past decade, representing a 180% increase. This shows us that more people had their rights guaranteed, which confirms that our performance has been fundamental in the Brazilian music market.
Collection (R$)
Distribution (R$)
Rightholders
Documents
Copyright is guaranteed by Brazilian law and it is the reason why Ecad and music associations fight for it to be guaranteed. Ecad is responsible for collecting copyright whenever there is a public use of music in Brazil on any channel or space: radio, TV, cinema, environmental sound, digital services, cinemas, commercial establishments, party venues and nightclubs and shows, between others.
Ecad bylaw
Our activities are defined in the statute, which contains a set of rules about our functioning and obligations.
If you are a journalist or work for any media outlet throughout Brazil or abroad (websites, newspapers, magazines, radio and television stations and any other journalistic publication), please contact our press office:
English
