Music is a part of many of our everyday lives and with good reason. Our favourite artists have the effortless ability to make us feel, reminisce, and relate to our peers, meaning that when deployed appropriately in video-based media, it can have profound consequences on the overall package. Several mediums of media, such as film, advertising, and now social media videos incorporate music for effect on its audience.
However, businesses, producers, and creators don’t have free reign to spontaneously add whatever music they feel would best improve the quality of their video. Often, copyrighting prevents the free usage of music in media, and thus, those looking to incorporate a certain song into their video must seek permission through music licensing to be granted free use of the song. Failure to comply with music licensing can result in costly legal battles and a poor industry reputation.
With the impact of music on audiences so glaringly obvious and the repercussions of illegally using it so damaging, it is imperative for video creators to learn and understand the process of music licensing. So, if you’re interested in adding music to your businesses or social media channel videos, read our step-by-step guide through the process of music licensing. But first, let’s gain a deeper understanding of what music licensing is.
What is Music Licensing?
Music licensing is the term given to the process and certification of permission from a copyright holder to use their music in your intended way. Music licensing isn’t necessarily standardised, so it can become a negotiation whereby the video creator and copyright holder must agree on an initial fee and any future royalties or share of profit.
Types of Music Licensing
Depending on the scale of operation, intended use, and medium, there are many different types of music licences. Some give the user limited degrees of usage, while others have more lenient regulations.
1. Sync License
A sync licence enables the use of musical composition as a background track that’s accompanied by visual media, such as films, TV shows, commercials, and social media content. It generally doesn’t permit the isolated usage of a song.
2. Mechanical Licence
If you’re looking to reproduce and distribute a song onto a physical or digital recording, such as CDs, downloads, or streaming, you’ll need to receive a mechanical license to receive free usage.
3. Performance Licence
To use music at a live event, whether recorded and played through a speaker or performed at a concert, you’ll need to receive a performance licence.
4. Master Licence
This licence grants permission to use a specific recording of a musical composition, typically obtained from the owner of the master recording.
So, how do you Obtain Music Licensing?
Of course, due to the differing types of licences that can be obtained and the varying scales you may intend to use the music, the music licensing process can vary greatly. But most music licensing processes include the following steps:
1. Identify the Rights Holder
In all cases, the first step towards being granted usage for a particular song is determining who holds the copyrights for it. This may include the songwriter, composer, music publisher, or record label, depending on the specific rights being sought.
2. Determine the Type of Licence Needed
Once the rights holder has been identified, determine the type of licence needed for the intended use of the music. For example, if the music will be used in a video project, a sync licence will likely be required.
3. Negotiate Terms and Fees
Negotiate the terms and fees of the licence agreement with the rights holder or their representative. This may include details such as the duration of the licence, territories covered, payment structure (e.g., upfront fee, royalties), and any additional terms or restrictions.
4. Obtain the Licence Agreement
Once the terms have been agreed upon, obtain a written licence agreement outlining the rights and obligations of both parties. It is essential to ensure that the agreement is legally binding and adequately protects the interests of all parties involved.
5. Fulfil Payment Obligations
If applicable, fulfil any payment obligations associated with the licence agreement, such as upfront fees or ongoing royalties. This may involve making payments directly to the rights holder or through a licensing agency or collective management organisation.
6. Use the Licensed Music
Once the licence agreement has been finalised and all payment obligations have been met, you are free to use the licensed music in accordance with the terms of the agreement. Be sure to comply with any usage restrictions or conditions specified in the licence agreement.
Conclusion
The music licensing process is vital for any content creator or business owner to understand to elevate the quality of the video-based content they produce. By following our step-by-step guide on how to obtain various music licences you should have a good framework to build from as you look to add music to your content. However, make sure you do further research about the specific licence you need before starting the process.