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Understanding Music Licensing: Do I Need a License?


Introduction: When venturing into the world of online broadcasting, one of the first questions you'll likely ask is whether you need a license. The answer to this question depends on what you plan to broadcast and where your audience is located. While we cannot provide legal advice, this guide will equip you with the necessary knowledge to protect your account and navigate the licensing landscape effectively.


  1. Licensing for Commercial Music: If you intend to use commercial music, obtaining a license is essential to ensure you do not infringe on anyone's copyright. Typically, the copyright for a song is held by the recording artist or record label, who receive royalties when their music is played in public spaces. Broadcasting the latest hits, like the Top 40, requires a license. However, if you plan to stream royalty-free music or music for which you own the rights, you may play it without a license.

  2. Understanding Licensing Bodies: Various organizations and bodies exist to handle music copyright and royalties in different countries. It is crucial to identify the relevant licensing bodies for your country or target audience. Here are a few examples of licensing bodies:


  • United Kingdom:

  • PRS (Performing Rights Society): Collects royalties for artists, composers, and cover music played on TV, radio, and online.

  • PPL: Represents record labels and collects royalties from radio stations.

  • United States:

  • SoundExchange: A licensing option for internet radio broadcasters.

  • ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, and SoundExchange: Organizations that handle music licensing and royalty collection.

  • Australia: PPCA 

  • Argentina: SADAIC

  • The Bahamas: URCA 

  • Bangladesh: BTRC 

  • Bolivia: SOBODAYCOM 

  • Brazil: ABERT, ABRAMUS, UBC 

  • Bulgaria: CRC

  • Canada: SOCAN 

  • Chile: SCD 

  • Columbia: SAYCO 

  • Costa Rica: ACAM 

  • Cuba: ACDAM

  • Cyprus: CRTA 

  • Dominican Republic: SGAEDOM 

  • Ecuador: SAYCE 

  • El Salvador: SACIM 

  • Finland: TEOSTO 

  • France: SACEM 

  • Germany: GEMA, GLV

  • Greece: GEA

  • Guatemala: AEI

  • Honduras: AACIMH

  • Iceland: STEF

  • India: IPRS 

  • Indonesia: ORARI 

  • Ireland: PPL 

  • Italy: NUOVOIMAIE

  • Jamaica: JACAP, JAMMS 

  • Kenya: PRISK, KAMP, MCSK

  • Lithuania: LRMD

  • Luxembourg: SACEM 

  • Malta: BAM

  • Mexico: SACM 

  • Netherlands: SENA, BUMA/STEMRA

  • New Zealand: APRA

  • Nigeria: NBC

  • Peru: APDAYC 

  • Poland: ZPAV, ZAIKS, STOART, SAWP 

  • Portugal: ANACOM, ERC, SPA, PASSMUSICA 

  • Romania: CREDIDAM

  • Russia: VOIS

  • Serbia: SOKOJ

  • Slovenia: AKOS

  • South Africa: CAPASSO, CASA

  • Spain: SGAE

  • Sweden: STIM

  • United Arab Emirates: TRA 

  • Uraguay: AGADU 

  • Venezuela: SACVEN

  • West Africa: MOICI


  1. Selecting the Right License: Choosing the appropriate license depends on where you plan to broadcast your audio. Licensing bodies may have different options and limitations. Some organizations may not clearly state their licensing options, requiring direct contact for further details. Ensure you reach out to the licensing bodies directly to understand your licensing obligations and options.

  2. Statutory Licenses for Non-Interactive Broadcasting: Groovit platform operates as an internet radio broadcaster with a non-interactive approach, where listeners cannot skip songs or select their own music, so you may fall under the statutory license. Statutory license fees vary across countries and organizations.

  3. Cost-Effective Licensing: To broadcast exclusively to a particular country, such as the USA or UK, consider obtaining a license specific to that country. Shopping around for the right license that suits your needs can help you find more cost-effective options.



Conclusion: Navigating the music licensing landscape can be complex. It is crucial to consult with qualified professionals or the relevant licensing bodies in your country to ensure compliance with copyright laws and to protect your account. Remember that licensing not only safeguards your efforts but also ensures that artists receive fair compensation for their work.

Please note that licensing requirements and fees are subject to change, so it's important to stay updated on the latest information provided by the licensing bodies in your country.


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