Neighbouring rights, sometimes known as related rights, refer to the rights of performers and master rights holders (typically record labels) in the public performance and broadcast of their recorded performances. Unlike publishing rights, which apply to the composers or songwriters of a musical work, neighbouring rights apply specifically to the recorded performance of that work.
These rights are called “neighbouring” because they are related to, and exist in parallel with, the rights of composers and publishers. They typically include the right to remuneration for the broadcasting or public performance of the recorded work, and the right to object to modifications of the performance that could be prejudicial to the performer’s reputation.
For example, if a recorded song is played on the radio, the songwriters and publishers would receive performance royalties, while the performers and the record label would receive neighbouring rights royalties.
Neighbouring rights are managed by various collection societies around the world. In the United States, SoundExchange is the main organization responsible for the collection and distribution of neighbouring rights royalties for digital performances.
For more information, visit the Neighbouring Rights page on Wikipedia.