Publishers aren't really interested in brilliant songs - they'd rather have an average song that's marketed brilliantly
Dreams.Shattered.
Sorry Jess didnt mean to do that!
Like Flossie said there are opportunities out there however the challenge is not just to write great songs, but to also create networks, relationships, a strong following and ergo industry attention - such that you find someone prepared to take a punt on you.
Its probably a bit harder now since there's less cash/investment around but there are opportunities..... slightly OT but......
From a artist/songwriter perspective I thought Gabrielle Aplin's progress has been interesting. Signed by a Major on the back of some good songs and a HUGE Youtube following (based mostly on covers). The label invests a decent amount of cash and releases a couple of okay EP's - although the singles underperformed and major radio play was limited (chicken/egg).
At this point the major must have been pulling their hair out. THEN an opportunity comes from John Lewis to cover an xmas track. Bid won, JL uses song in intensive TV campaign and effectively gives track the kind of marketing push that would cost £m
Single goes #1, BBC/Cap 'A' Playlist, Album #1, Re-releases all 'A' playlisted and chart.
So its interesting that thats the way the music business seems to be going. Presumably JL and Parlaphone did some kind of revenue share = win-win.