An "affiliation" refers to the relationship or membership a composer, songwriter, or publisher has with a performing rights organization (PRO). PROs, such as ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC in the United States, collect and distribute royalties on behalf of their members when their music is performed publicly, broadcast, or used in various media. Being affiliated with a PRO ensures that a composer or songwriter receives royalties for the use of their music and allows the PRO to manage the licensing of thei