Pledge to end ghostwriting
Composers have the power to build an industry that credits works fairly and creates opportunities for the next generation. By signing our pledge, you can help end ghost-writing and ensure that every media composer’s contribution is properly recognised.
As a composer, I pledge to:
- Always be fully transparent with productions about who will be composing music.
- Ensure that all contributing composers are credited on cue sheets, on screen where possible, and on IMDb.
- Any works that I or my representatives submit for consideration for awards will accurately and fairly credit everyone involved in the composition of the music.
Sign the pledge
Sign the pledge
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What is a ghost-writer?
A ghost-writer is an additional music writer who either composes a cue from scratch or makes a significant creative contribution to an existing cue, but remains effectively invisible because the lead composer does not disclose their involvement to the production.
As a result, ghost-writers receive no screen or IMDb composing credit for their work. They are also excluded from the music cue sheet, meaning they do not receive the royalties they are legally entitled to.
Ghost-writing may be more common in certain areas of composition, but every songwriter and composer deserves proper credit for their work.
If you have experienced ghost-writing, share your experience with our Ethics Committee.
You can share your experience anonymously. Your report helps us understand current practices and strengthens our efforts to create a fairer and more transparent industry.
Read our guide to composer collaboration
You can find practical guidance on how to help end ghost-writing in our Guide to Best Working Practices for Composer Collaborations. It covers everything from understanding what additional music writers are and why they should be credited, to our awards policy on ghost-writing and top tips for fair collaboration.
