Guide to Music Licensing: What You Need for Your Event

Know Your Public Performance Rights
Music licensing is a must for any event with public music. Even if you have bought songs or use a paid music service, you need public performance licenses for music at events or venues. This rule is for live music, DJ sets, background music, and all other public music.
Main Licensing Groups and Their Costs
The key rights groups (PROs) that give out music licenses are:
- ASCAP
- BMI
- SESAC
License costs are usually in two types:
- Set fees: $250-500 for one time events
- Fees based on money made: 1-4% of event money
Following the Law and Avoiding Risk
Not having the right music licenses can lead to big fines:
- Up to $150,000 fine for each song not allowed
- Possible legal steps from rights owners
- Chances of event being stopped
Licenses You May Need
Different events might need different licenses:
- Yearly licenses for regular venue use
- One-time licenses for single events
- Licenses for many days for festivals
- Licenses for live shows
Getting the right music rights keeps your event safe from legal issues and high costs.
Kinds of Music Licenses
Learn About Music Licensing for Events
Needed Music License Types

Music licensing is key in planning events.
Knowing different license types helps follow the law and use music right.
Public Performance Licenses
Public performance licenses are basic for music at events 호치민퍼블릭가라오케
These licenses are for both live and recorded music in public.
Event planners can get these from rights groups (PROs) like:
- ASCAP
- BMI
- SESAC
Synchronization Licenses
Synchronization licenses are needed when you record events with copyrighted music. This is for:
- Video recordings
- Live streaming
- Sharing event videos
You need direct okay from copyright owners or their agents for these rights.
Mechanical Licenses
Mechanical licenses are for making and sharing recorded music from events through:
- CDs
- Digital downloads
- Music platforms
When Many Licenses are Needed
Big events often need several license types for full coverage.
Important things to think about include:
- Where the music comes from
- How you will share event recordings
- Discover expert strategies for securing the perfect karaoke
- How long you can use the music
- Where the music can be played
Getting all licenses sorted before your event avoids legal trouble and follows copyright rules.
What Are Public Performance Rights?
All About Public Performance Rights: A Detailed Guide
What Are Public Performance Rights?
Public Performance Rights are needed laws to play copyrighted music in public.
These rights make sure songwriters, composers, and music publishers get paid and protect their work.
When Are These Rights Needed?
Public performance licensing is a must for:
- Work events and meetings
- Live music
- Weddings and parties at public places
- Stores
- Eating spots and bars
- Money-raising events
- School uses
How to Get These Rights
You must get these rights from rights groups (PROs):
- ASCAP
- BMI
- SESAC
For Venues
Many places have yearly licenses that cover all music played. Check this before you plan.
For Specific Events
For short events, get event-specific licenses based on:
- How big the place is
- Ticket prices
- How long the event lasts
- What kind of music will be played
- Where it happens
Fees to Think About
License fees change by:
- How big the event is
- How many people come
- If it’s for making money
- How long music is played
- If the event might make money
Right licenses save you from copyright problems and make sure rights holders get their due.