The Basics of Music License Fees

Music license fees are payments made to copyright holders for the right to use their music publicly. The cost of music licenses varies significantly based on multiple factors, including the type of music being used, the frequency of its use, the size and type of venue, and the specific terms set by the licensing organization. Each Performing Rights Organization (PRO) has its own structure for calculating fees, which can depend on detailed criteria like the square footage of the venue, the number of speakers, and even the type of business operation.

Understanding and navigating these fees is essential for businesses, not only to ensure compliance with copyright laws but also to maintain fair compensation practices for artists and publishers whose works are being utilized. Different PROs may also offer various licenses tailored to the needs of specific business types, from blanket licenses that cover all music by their represented artists to more specific licenses for individual tracks or events. For businesses, the challenge lies in identifying the right type of license that fits their specific music usage, ensuring they meet legal requirements while managing costs effectively. This process involves regular assessments of music use and staying updated with any changes in licensing policies or Music license fees structures, making it a dynamic and ongoing responsibility for business owners.

Different Types of Music Licensing Costs

There are several types of music licensing costs that businesses must consider. The most common include performance licenses, synchronization licenses, and mechanical licenses. Performance licenses are required when music is played publicly, whether through media like radio and TV or in physical locations like bars and retail shops. Music licensing rates for these uses are generally managed by PROs who distribute the royalties to their members based on the usage of their music.

In addition to performance licenses, synchronization licenses are required when music is used in conjunction with visual media, such as in commercials, movies, or YouTube videos. This type of license is negotiated on a case-by-case basis, usually directly with the rights holders or their representatives. The cost can vary widely depending on the popularity of the music, the nature of the use, and the extent of the audience reach. Mechanical licenses, meanwhile, are needed for reproducing music in a physical or digital format. This includes music CDs, vinyl records, and downloadable or streaming music. Mechanical licensing rates are often set by statutory rates but can also be subject to negotiations depending on the volume of reproductions or specific usage scenarios. Each of these licensing types involves different costs and considerations, making it crucial for businesses to clearly understand their specific needs and ensure they are fully compliant with all relevant music licensing laws.

Music Licensing Rates by PROs

Each Performing Rights Organization (PRO) establishes its music licensing rates based on a variety of factors tailored to different types of music usage. For example, the ASCAP fee for music licensing is calculated considering factors such as the type of venue, audience size, and how the music is utilized, whether it be live performances, recorded tracks, or streamed content. On the other hand, BMI music royalties are determined through an intricate formula that accounts for the size of the venue and the specific nature of the music usage. SESAC, catering primarily to commercial venues and broadcasters, adjusts its music licensing expenses to align with the specialized needs of these sectors. Understanding these differences is crucial for businesses to ensure they comply with legal standards and adequately support the creators whose music they use.

Global Music Rights (GMR) represents a unique and growing force within the music licensing industry, catering to both emerging artists and established performers. Many of GMR’s affiliated artists frequently appear on the Billboard Hot 100, highlighting the relevance and contemporary appeal of their catalog. For businesses looking to feature the latest hits as part of their music offerings, securing a license from GMR is essential. The GMR song licensing fee allows businesses to legally use popular and high-demand music, making it a crucial consideration for venues aiming to create a vibrant and modern atmosphere.

How to Calculate the Cost of Music Licensing

Calculating the cost of music licensing can be complex due to the varying factors involved. The Music license fees for music licensing generally includes base rates plus potential additional charges based on specific use cases. For example, a restaurant that uses music for both live performances and background music might pay more than a retail store that only streams background music. The costs can also vary seasonally or during special events when music usage increases.

Strategic Considerations for Managing Music Licensing Costs

To manage music licensing costs effectively, businesses should consider their specific needs and usage patterns. One strategy is to limit the scope of music used or to curate playlists that fit within a more affordable licensing bracket. Additionally, businesses can work directly with PROs or specialized music licensing services to find the most cost-effective solutions. These services often negotiate on behalf of multiple clients, which can lead to lower overall fees.

Long-term Benefits of Proper Music Licensing

Investing in proper music licensing not only avoids legal issues but can also enhance customer satisfaction and retention. Music creates an ambiance that can significantly affect customer behavior and their overall experience. Furthermore, by paying music license fees, businesses contribute to the sustainability of the music industry, supporting the creators who make the music that enhances their business environment.

Key Takeaways

In today’s business environment, the legal use of music is not just a legal obligation but a critical component of the customer experience. By understanding the different types of music licensing costs and the rates set by the PROs, businesses can plan their music use strategically and ensure compliance. With Jukeboxy Music for Business, companies can navigate the complexities of venue music licensing with ease, ensuring legal music usage while elevating the atmosphere of their spaces. By choosing a professional and reliable music service like Jukeboxy, businesses can enjoy peace of mind and focus on growth and customer satisfaction.

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Apple Music’s Personal Use License

Apple Music, with its robust subscriber base exceeding 112 million as of 2024, caters extensively to personal users. The service offers an impressive array of features including access to a vast library of over 100 million songs, curated playlists that cater to a variety of moods and genres, and the capability to download music for offline listening. Geared specifically towards individual enjoyment, Apple Music’s subscription is designed for private, non-commercial use. This delineation ensures that subscribers can relish the music at home, during commutes, or in any personal setting, but it strictly prohibits the use of the service in any public or commercial venue without appropriate licensing.

The cost of subscribing to Apple Music underscores its aim to provide value while maintaining high-quality service. For individuals, the service costs $9.99 per month, which includes seamless integration across all Apple devices, providing a cohesive and user-friendly experience. Additionally, there are family plans available at $14.99 per month, which allow up to six members to enjoy the service simultaneously, making it a cost-effective option for households. This licensing structure, coupled with competitive pricing and extensive music offerings, makes Apple Music a popular choice among personal users worldwide. However, the use of this service in a public or commercial setting would require additional licensing, typically through a Public Performance License, to ensure compliance with copyright laws and to support fair compensation for artists and creators.

The Need for a Public Performance License (PPL)

Businesses that intend to use music from streaming services like Apple Music in public venues such as restaurants, stores, or offices need to secure a Public Performance License (PPL). This license is critical to ensure compliance with copyright laws and to properly compensate artists and songwriters. Without this license, businesses risk facing legal consequences, including fines and litigation, for copyright infringement. Public performance licenses are issued by performing rights organizations (PROs) such as ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC in the United States, which collect fees on behalf of songwriters, composers, and music publishers.

Securing a PPL is not just a legal formality; it’s a fundamental aspect of respecting and supporting the creators of the music. When music is played in public, it can enhance the atmosphere, influence customer behavior, and even increase sales, making it a valuable asset for any business. By obtaining the necessary licenses, businesses contribute to the sustainability of the music industry, ensuring that those who create the music are rewarded for their work. This process allows businesses to legally use vast catalogues of music while ensuring that all parties involved are compensated fairly for their contributions to the cultural and economic value that music brings to public spaces.

Apple Music for Business: A Brief Venture

In 2019, Apple sought to expand its market reach by introducing ‘Apple Music for Business,’ a service tailored to meet the needs of businesses. This venture was designed to offer B2B music streaming solutions, featuring venue-specific music recommendations that could enhance the customer experience in commercial settings such as retail stores, cafes, and more. The service aimed to provide businesses with the legal framework to use Apple’s extensive music library in a way that complied with copyright laws, offering a legitimate streaming solution for public spaces.

However, despite its potential, Apple Music for Business was quietly discontinued. The decision to phase out this service was influenced by strategic shifts following mergers, which led Apple to reassess its business offerings. It was determined that maintaining Apple Music for Business no longer aligned with their core objectives, especially in relation to servicing small businesses and franchises. This led to a significant gap in the market, leaving many businesses in search of alternative solutions that could offer similar benefits without compromising on legal compliance or musical variety.

Alternatives for Business Music Streaming

With the discontinuation of Apple Music for Business, companies need to look for alternative services that are specifically tailored for commercial use. As businesses seek to legally stream music that complements their brand’s atmosphere and enhances customer experience, services like Jukeboxy emerge as suitable solutions. Jukeboxy offers a fully licensed music catalogue for business environments, ensuring that all music played complies with copyright laws. This service not only helps businesses avoid legal issues but also supports the music industry by ensuring that artists are compensated for their work.

Jukeboxy distinguishes itself by providing venue-specific music recommendations, which are essential for businesses aiming to strengthen their brand identity through music. Whether it’s a cozy café, a bustling retail shop, or a professional office environment, Jukeboxy’s tailored playlists can significantly enhance the ambient experience, encouraging customer retention and satisfaction. By filling the gap left by Apple Music for Business, Jukeboxy and similar platforms offer comprehensive solutions that cater to the unique needs of diverse business environments, making them invaluable partners in the commercial use of music streaming.

Transferring Existing Playlists to Jukeboxy

For businesses that have curated extensive playlists on Apple Music and are looking to switch to a service like Jukeboxy, the transition can be seamless. Jukeboxy offers specialized tools and support to help business owners transfer their existing Apple playlists into their system with ease. This feature ensures that businesses can maintain the musical identity they’ve worked hard to build while staying compliant with legal music licensing requirements.

Switching to Jukeboxy allows businesses to not only keep the music their customers love but also enjoy peace of mind, knowing they are paying the appropriate license fees. Unlike consumer music services like Spotify, Jukeboxy is specifically designed for businesses, meaning it’s fully licensed for commercial use. Business owners can avoid the legal complications of playing music through services not intended for public performance, all while enjoying a platform that offers high-quality music services tailored for businesses.

With Jukeboxy, the process of moving playlists is simple and efficient, minimizing any disruption in the atmosphere created by carefully chosen music. Whether a business is looking to play background music in a restaurant, retail store, or spa, Jukeboxy ensures that all the necessary legalities are covered, leaving business owners free to focus on what they do best. By choosing Jukeboxy, businesses not only enhance their environment but also guarantee they are using a legal music service that meets their commercial needs.

Thanks to Jukeboxy’s user-friendly system and dedicated support, businesses can continue playing the music their customers enjoy without skipping a beat.

The Importance of Licensed Music Catalogues

Utilizing licensed music catalogues from services specifically designed for business use is crucial for maintaining legal compliance and supporting the music industry economically. Services like Jukeboxy ensure that music played in public venues is fully licensed, thus avoiding potential legal issues related to copyright infringement. By paying royalties appropriately, these services ensure that artists and songwriters are compensated for the use of their work in various commercial settings. This not only benefits the creators but also contributes to the sustainability of the music industry.

This ethical approach is vital for businesses that aim to uphold a reputation of responsibility and integrity within the community. Adopting licensed music services demonstrates a commitment to respecting and supporting the creative efforts of musicians and composers. For businesses, this practice enhances their public image and builds trust among customers who value ethical considerations. This commitment to ethical practices in music licensing can significantly impact customer loyalty and enhance a business’s standing in the community, aligning their operational practices with broader social values.

While Apple Music provides an exceptional service for personal use, its limitations for business use highlight the importance of choosing the right streaming service for commercial environments. With features like live spatial audio and Dolby Atmos, Apple Music offers a rich and immersive experience for individual listeners. However, commercially licensed background music services like Jukeboxy offer practical, legal, and ethical solutions for businesses wanting to enhance their spaces with music. By selecting a service designed for commercial use, businesses can provide brand-enhancing music experiences, stay compliant with copyright laws, and contribute positively to the music industry.

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Understanding YouTube Music’s Offerings

YouTube Music provides a rich listening experience tailored specifically for personal use, making it a standout option in the crowded streaming service market. Subscribers gain access to a vast library that includes millions of songs, music videos, and live performances, which together create one of the most comprehensive music resources available today. This platform is especially noted for its music curation expertise, offering carefully curated music categories that cater to a wide range of tastes and activities. Whether you’re looking to relax, get motivated for a workout, or find the perfect soundtrack for a dinner party, YouTube Music makes it easy to locate the right tunes for any occasion.

YouTube Music is accessible through two primary tiers: a free, ad-supported version and a premium subscription. The free version allows users basic streaming capabilities, while the premium subscription enhances the experience by removing ads, enabling background playback, and allowing songs to be downloaded for offline listening. Priced at $9.99 per month, the premium service is competitively positioned within the industry, offering substantial value by integrating seamlessly with Google’s ecosystem, which includes Google Assistant and various Google Home devices. This integration enhances user-friendly music control, allowing listeners to interact with their music more directly and intuitively.

Subscription Details and Personal Use Policy of YouTube Music

YouTube Music offers a tiered subscription model aimed at enhancing the personal use experience of its users. The service is designed to allow individuals to enjoy a rich array of music offerings, from the latest hits to old classics, anytime and anywhere. It includes features tailored to personal preferences, like curated playlists and the ability to create personal libraries, ensuring that each user’s listening experience is as enjoyable and personalized as possible.

Importantly, YouTube Music’s Terms of Service specify the intended use of the platform. It states clearly that the service is for personal, non-commercial use only. This includes a stipulation against using YouTube Music for public screenings or streaming music in commercial settings. Such restrictions are crucial for users to understand, as non-compliance with these terms can lead to violations of copyright laws. For businesses that require music for background ambiance or other commercial uses, it’s necessary to seek out services that offer proper licensing for such environments. This approach not only adheres to legal standards but also ensures that creators and artists are fairly compensated for the use of their work in public and commercial spaces.

The Need for a Music for Business License

Businesses that want to utilize background music to enhance their environment must secure a Music for Business license. This type of license is essential for the public performance of music in commercial settings such as restaurants, retail stores, and offices. Obtaining these licenses ensures that artists and rights holders are appropriately compensated for the use of their work, respecting the legal rights and financial entitlements of those who create the music. Without this license, businesses run the risk of legal challenges, including significant fines and lawsuits for copyright infringement, which can result from unauthorized public performance of copyrighted music.

Services that cater specifically to the needs of businesses, such as Soundtrack Your Brand or Jukeboxy, provide legally compliant alternatives with the necessary licensing that suits commercial needs. These platforms excel in music curation expertise, offering a broad range of curated music categories designed to fit various business atmospheres and themes. By handling the complexities of music licensing, these services allow businesses to safely enhance their customer experience with professionally curated background music.

YouTube Music in Business Settings: A Cautionary Note

While YouTube Music offers a rich selection and user-friendly features, its use in business settings without a proper license violates copyright laws. Businesses often require a soundtrack that not only enhances the atmosphere but also complies with legal standards. For this reason, opting for a service that offers a business license is crucial. These services often provide additional features tailored to businesses, such as the ability to schedule music or control the ambiance across multiple locations, enhancing the overall customer and employee experience.

Alternatives for Legal Music Streaming in Commercial Venues

For businesses that appreciate the curated categories and extensive database of YouTube Music but need a legal solution for their venues, turning to platforms like Jukeboxy can be an excellent alternative. Jukeboxy offers a licensed music catalogue specifically for commercial use, ensuring businesses can safely use music to enhance their atmosphere without infringing on copyright laws. This platform also offers music curation expertise similar to YouTube Music, tailored to fit the unique brand identity of each business.

Key Takeaways

YouTube Music provides a comprehensive and enjoyable personal listening experience with its vast selection and sophisticated curation. However, businesses must be wary of the licensing limitations associated with using such a platform in a commercial setting. Opting for a dedicated business music streaming service not only ensures compliance with copyright laws but also supports the music industry by ensuring fair compensation for music creators. As businesses continue to recognize the importance of background music in creating a pleasant atmosphere, choosing the right music streaming service is crucial. Services like Jukeboxy offer tailored solutions that are specifically designed for commercial use, providing not just the right music but also the legal right to use it in a public setting. This holistic approach helps businesses enhance their brand presence and customer engagement effectively and ethically.

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Understanding Global Music Rights (GMR)

Global Music Rights (GMR) is one of the newer and smaller performance rights organizations in the United States, yet it plays a crucial role within the music industry. Representing a select group of highly acclaimed songwriters and publishers, GMR administers the public performance rights of their compositions. Unlike its larger counterparts, GMR licensing is known for its selective roster and personalized service, providing unique advantages in handling high-value licensing for premium commercial use.

GMR’s primary function is to negotiate licenses for the music compositions they represent, ensuring that their affiliated songwriters and publishers are compensated for the public performance of their works. This includes music played in diverse venues such as restaurants, retail stores, and office spaces—virtually any business environment seeking to enhance its atmosphere through music.

The Importance of Securing a GMR License for Business Music Use

When a business uses music, securing the legal rights to play that music in a public setting is mandatory. Obtaining a GMR license allows a business access to GMR’s exclusive catalog, which includes works from some of the most notable artists and songwriters, such as Billie Eilish, Anderson Paak, Bruce Springsteen, Bad Bunny and much more. This GMR licensing agreement is crucial as it allows businesses to legally use a wide array of high-profile music without the need for direct negotiations with each songwriter or publisher, a scenario that is often unfeasible for most businesses.

A GMR license simplifies the legal landscape for businesses by providing a streamlined solution to music licensing. With a GMR license, businesses can freely use today’s greatest and most popular music creators in the public performance licensing of their catalogs, ensuring compliance with copyright laws. This is crucial, as the repercussions of non-compliance can include severe legal and financial penalties. Additionally, the license supports the rights of artists and songwriters by ensuring they are compensated for the use of their creative works. This not only fosters a fair and sustainable music industry but also maintains the integrity of using music in commercial settings.

Risks of Non-Compliance with Music Licensing

Operating a business without a Global Music Rights (GMR) license—or any other essential music licenses—poses severe legal risks that can have profound implications. When businesses use copyrighted music without proper authorization, they expose themselves to significant legal actions. These penalties can include hefty fines that often escalate depending on the frequency and context of the unauthorized usage. For instance, fines for using copyrighted music without a license can range from $750 to $30,000 per song, and if the infringement is found to be willful, the cost could skyrocket up to $150,000 per violation. The financial impact of these penalties can quickly exceed the music license for business costs, making adherence to licensing laws a financially prudent decision.

Beyond the substantial financial penalties, the legal consequences of non-compliance can disrupt business operations significantly. Engaging in litigation over copyright infringement can drain resources, divert attention from core business activities, and lead to long-term financial strain. The cumulative effect of legal fees, court costs, and potential statutory damages emphasizes the critical importance of obtaining appropriate music licenses, such as those offered by GMR licensing. Ensuring compliance with music licensing requirements is not only essential for avoiding severe financial penalties but also for maintaining smooth and uninterrupted business operations.

Strategies to Avoid Penalties and Legal Issues

The simplest and most effective method to navigate business music legalities and avoid legal penalties is through diligent licensing and royalty compliance. Businesses must secure the necessary music licenses from all relevant Performing Rights Organizations (PROs), such as GMR licensing, ASCAP, and BMI. Each of these organizations manages a distinct catalog of music that represents a diverse array of artists and genres. By securing licenses from these entities, businesses ensure they have the legal rights to use a wide range of music, thereby avoiding the pitfalls of copyright infringement.

Ensuring comprehensive legal coverage for the music used in a business setting is essential for maintaining compliance with copyright laws. This not only helps businesses avoid costly penalties and legal battles but also supports artists and the music industry as a whole by ensuring that royalties are properly paid. For businesses, this means obtaining and managing licenses from multiple PROs to cover all the music they plan to use, which can vary significantly depending on the business type and customer demographics. By addressing these business music legalities proactively, companies can focus on enhancing their customer experience without the looming threat of legal issues.

Jukeboxy Music for Business: A Streamlined Music Licensing Solution

For many businesses, navigating the landscape of multiple licenses and compliance can be overwhelming. Jukeboxy Music for Business provides a simple, effective, and cost-efficient solution, offering access to a vast licensed music catalog suitable for various business types and customer demographics. Jukeboxy ensures compliance with licensing and royalty requirements, saving businesses significant time and resources. This allows businesses to concentrate on enhancing customer experiences while Jukeboxy handles the complexities of music licensing.

In today’s business environment, the legal use of music is not just a legal obligation but a critical component of the customer experience. Understanding the role of GMR licensing and the importance of proper music licensing is vital for any business that uses background music. With Jukeboxy Music for Business, companies can navigate the complexities of venue music licensing with ease, ensuring legal music usage while elevating the atmosphere of their spaces. By choosing a professional and reliable music service like Jukeboxy, businesses can enjoy peace of mind and focus on growth and customer satisfaction.

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What is SESAC?

SESAC originally stood for the Society of European Stage Authors and Composers, but today, it represents songwriters and publishers from various genres worldwide. As one of the three major performance rights organizations (PROs) in the United States, along with ASCAP and BMI, SESAC plays a critical role in the music industry. It is unique because it is the only for-profit PRO that operates under a different model than its peers, offering what many see as more personalized and proactive service.

SESAC licensing primary role is to license music compositions, ensuring that their affiliated songwriters and publishers are compensated for the public performance of their work. This includes music played in various venues like restaurants, retail stores, and office spaces—essentially any business environment that uses background music to enhance their setting.

Why Businesses Need a SESAC License

When a business uses music, it is legally required to pay for the right to play that music in a public setting. This is where a SESAC licensing comes into play. By securing a SESAC license, a business gains access to SESAC’s licensed music catalogue, which contains millions of musical works from countless artists across different genres and eras. This licensing agreement ensures that businesses can legally use this vast array of music without facing direct negotiations with each songwriter or publisher—an impractical scenario for most businesses.

The Consequences of Non-Compliance

Operating without a SESAC license—or any other necessary music licenses—poses significant legal risks. If a business uses copyrighted music without proper authorization, it can face severe penalties, including costly lawsuits. The financial implications can be substantial, often far exceeding the cost of obtaining the necessary licenses. Beyond financial damage, legal battles over music licensing can cause reputational harm that could deter customers, impacting the business further.

Additionally, the impact of legal disputes over music licensing extends beyond mere financial losses. Engaging in prolonged legal battles can tarnish a business’s reputation, leading to a diminished perception among consumers. This SESAC licensing reputational damage can deter current and potential customers, further eroding the business’s profitability and long-term viability. In the competitive business environment, maintaining a good standing with customers is crucial, and any negative publicity associated with legal issues can have lasting adverse effects. Therefore, the importance of adhering to all music licensing laws cannot be overstressed, as the consequences of non-compliance can be both immediate and far-reaching, affecting multiple aspects of a business’s operations and its market position.

How to Avoid Penalties and Legal Issues

The simplest and most effective way to avoid these penalties is by ensuring complete SESAC licensing and royalty compliance. This critical step involves securing the necessary music licenses from all pertinent Performing Rights Organizations (PROs), such as SESAC, ASCAP, GMR and BMI. Each of these organizations manages distinct catalogues of music, representing different artists and genres. Therefore, to ensure comprehensive legal coverage and to accommodate the diverse range of music a business might utilize, it is essential to hold licenses from each relevant PRO.

Understanding the specific requirements and coverage of each license is crucial, as this will prevent any inadvertent lapses in compliance. Businesses should conduct regular reviews of their music usage and the licenses they hold to ensure they remain in good standing as their music needs evolve and as licensing agreements change. By taking proactive measures and seeking guidance, when necessary, businesses can maintain a sound legal standing, avoiding the disruptions and financial burdens associated with copyright infringement lawsuits.

The Significance of Royalties and Their Distribution in Music Licensing

Royalties play an indispensable role in the music industry, serving as the foundational economic support for artists, composers, and publishers. When businesses like restaurants, retail stores, and office spaces use music to enhance their environment, they are legally obligated to ensure that the creators of that music are compensated. This compensation comes in the form of royalties, which provide ongoing income to music creators for the use of their work. This system not only rewards creators for their artistic contributions but also enables them to continue their creative endeavors, supporting the cycle of musical production and innovation. Moreover, royalties help sustain the industry’s economy, supporting various roles beyond SESAC licensing the artists themselves, including technical staff, managers, and other music professionals whose livelihoods are connected to the music’s commercial success.

To manage and distribute these royalties effectively, businesses must engage with Performing Rights Organizations (PROs) such as SESAC, ASCAP, and BMI. These organizations collect royalties from entities that use music publicly, including digital platforms, broadcast stations, and live venues. The PROs then distribute these funds to the rights holders based on negotiated rates and the extent of the music’s use. This ensures that all parties involved—from the songwriter to the publisher—receive fair compensation for their contributions. For businesses, understanding and complying with these processes through proper licensing is crucial. It not only fulfills legal obligations but also supports the artistic community, fostering a culture of respect and fair compensation for creative work. Using services like Jukeboxy Music for Business can simplify this process by ensuring that all music used is appropriately licensed, thereby maintaining compliance and supporting the ecosystem of music creators.

Jukeboxy Music for Business: A Cost-Effective Music Licensing Solution

For many businesses, managing multiple licenses and ensuring compliance can be overwhelming. Jukeboxy Music for Business simplifies this process by offering a straightforward, effective, and economical solution. Businesses gain access to a vast catalog of licensed music, tailored to suit various industries and customer demographics, without the need to directly negotiate with multiple Performing Rights Organizations (PROs).

Jukeboxy ensures that all the music they provide is fully compliant with licensing and royalty requirements. This not only helps businesses avoid the legal pitfalls of non-compliance but also saves them significant time and resources. By using Jukeboxy, businesses can focus on what they do best—serving their customers and creating memorable experiences—while leaving the complex details of music licensing to the experts.

In today’s business environment, the legal use of music is not just a legal obligation but a critical component of the customer experience. Understanding the role of SESAC and the importance of proper music licensing is vital for any business that uses background music. With Jukeboxy Music for Business, companies can navigate the complexities of venue music licensing with ease, ensuring legal music usage while elevating the atmosphere of their spaces. By choosing a professional and reliable music service like Jukeboxy, businesses can enjoy peace of mind and focus on growth and customer satisfaction.

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Understanding Music Licensing

Music licensing involves obtaining permission to use copyrighted music in a commercial setting. Whether you play background music in your store, use a track for a marketing campaign, or feature music in promotional videos, each requires specific types of licenses to ensure compliance with copyright laws.

Types of Licenses Your Business May Need

Public Performance Licenses: This type of license allows music to be played in public spaces, whether it be live, broadcast, or streamed as background music. This type of license is crucial for venues such as restaurants, bars, concert halls, and even businesses that use music in the background, like retail stores or offices. 

Music performance rights organizations (PROs) like ASCAP, BMI, GMR, and SESAC in the United States manage these licenses. They collect fees from businesses that use copyrighted music and distribute the royalties to songwriters, composers, and publishers. The fee structure can vary based on factors such as the size of the venue, the type of business, and the amount of music used.

Essentially, if a business intends to play music that is accessible to the public or a larger group beyond a personal gathering, it needs to secure a public performance license to comply with copyright laws. This ensures that the creators of the music are fairly compensated for their work.

Mechanical Licenses: This specific type of music license allows someone to reproduce and distribute a copyrighted song in a recorded format. This license is necessary when you want to cover, record, or press copies of a song that someone else wrote, without changing the fundamental character of the song. For instance, if you’re a musician who wants to cover a popular song and sell it on CDs or online platforms, you need to obtain a mechanical license from the copyright holder or a music rights organization. 

Synchronization Licenses: Often called a “sync license” is required when copyrighted music is paired with visual media in a way that the two components work together to enhance each other. This includes using copyrighted music in films, television shows, commercials, video games, and online videos.

The process of securing a sync license typically involves negotiating terms directly with the copyright holder or their representative. The terms can vary widely depending on factors like the duration of the music used, the type of media, the distribution scope (such as international vs. domestic), and the prominence of the music within the media (background vs. featured).

How to Obtain Music Licenses 101 for Business Streaming

Partnering with a commercially licensed music service like Jukeboxy can streamline licensing for business use. We offer access to a wide range of music and handle the legal complexities of licensing, ensuring that your business remains compliant while benefiting from a curated soundtrack. For businesses seeking specific tracks or bespoke music solutions, direct negotiation with copyright holders or their representatives might also be necessary.

The Benefits of Proper Music Licensing

By securing the correct music licenses, businesses not only adhere to legal standards but also contribute to the success of musicians and composers. Furthermore, licensed music helps create an inviting atmosphere that can enhance the customer experience, encourage longer visits, and even increase sales.

Staying Informed and Compliant

The landscape of music licensing is continually evolving, with regulations varying by country and type of music usage. It is crucial for business owners to stay informed about these changes to avoid potential legal issues and fines. Consulting with legal experts or licensing professionals can provide peace of mind and ensure that your business’s music usage is always compliant.

Why Choose Jukeboxy for Your Music Licensing Needs?

Music Licensing 101 for Businesses. Jukeboxy is dedicated to providing businesses with hassle-free music licensing solutions, extensive music libraries, and expertly curated playlists tailored to different brands and environments. Our service not only enhances the ambiance of your space but also ensures that you are supporting the artists and creators who enrich our lives with their music.

Music is more than just background noise; it’s a powerful tool that can transform your business atmosphere, reinforce your brand identity, and connect with customers on an emotional level. With Jukeboxy, unlock the soundtrack to your business’s success and experience the benefits of music, all while ensuring full legal compliance and support for the music community.

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Understanding the Significance of Music Licensing Organizations

In the music industry, organizations such as ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, GMR, and SoundExchange in the USA, along with SOCAN and Re:Sound in Canada, are pivotal in ensuring that songwriters, composers, and music publishers are fairly compensated for the use of their work. These entities play a crucial role in protecting artists’ rights, managing the complexities of music licensing, and distributing royalties to the rightful owners.

ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC: Protecting Artists’ Rights in the USA

ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC are renowned performance rights organizations (PROs) in the United States. They license music on behalf of their members and ensure that royalties are collected and distributed when music is publicly performed. Each organization caters to a vast array of music genres, supporting artists and publishers in earning royalties through their creative work.

GMR and SoundExchange: Expanding the Licensing Landscape

Global Music Rights (GMR) and SoundExchange introduce additional layers to the music rights ecosystem in the USA. GMR focuses on licensing performance rights for a selective roster of artists, while SoundExchange specializes in managing digital performance royalties for sound recordings, ensuring artists and record labels are compensated for digital broadcasts.

SOCAN and Re:Sound: Leading the Charge on Music Rights in Canada

In Canada, SOCAN and Re:Sound serve similar purposes; licensing music and ensuring fair compensation for artists and publishers. SOCAN manages rights for musical compositions, while Re:Sound oversees the rights for sound recordings and performances, covering a comprehensive spectrum of music licensing needs.

Why Choose Jukeboxy for Your Music Licensing Needs

Get in the groove with Jukeboxy, your gateway to extensive music licensing for your business. Whether you’re in the USA or Canada, Jukeboxy simplifies the process of obtaining the necessary licenses from ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, GMR, SoundExchange, SOCAN, and Re:Sound. Here’s why Jukeboxy stands out:

Comprehensive Coverage: Jukeboxy offers access to a wide range of music licensing options, ensuring your business complies with legal requirements while enjoying an expansive music library.

Simplified Licensing Process: With Jukeboxy, navigating the complexities of music rights and licensing becomes straightforward, allowing you to focus on enhancing your business ambiance without the legal hassles.

Cost-Effective Solutions: Jukeboxy provides an efficient and cost-effective way to secure music licenses, making it easier for businesses of all sizes to enjoy a diverse selection of music legally.

In summary, collaborating with Jukeboxy for your music licensing needs guarantees access to legally acquired music, upholds artists’ rights, and enhances the customer experience with a superior musical ambiance, benefitting your business on multiple fronts. Embrace the ease and efficiency of Jukeboxy, and let your business set the perfect tone with legally licensed music from top organizations in the USA and Canada.

The post Navigating Music Licensing in the USA & Canada appeared first on Jukeboxy Blog.

Why Music Licensing Matters:

Music licensing for business is the legal cornerstone for playing copyrighted music within your establishment. It’s a misconception that owning a piece of music (like a CD or digital download) grants you the rights for public playback. Much like purchasing a book doesn’t allow you to broadcast it, using music beyond personal enjoyment requires explicit permission via licensing.

The Unique Value of Jukeboxy for Your Business:

Opting for Jukeboxy as your music streaming partner goes beyond just securing licenses from Performance Rights Organizations (PROs).

 With Jukeboxy, you get the complete musical repertoire of all major PROs in the USA (ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, GMR, SoundExchange) and Canada (SOCAN, Re:Sound), all within a single subscription. This seamless integration means you can stream high-quality, ad-free music tailored for your business at an affordable monthly rate of $29.99, with no contractual obligations.

Enhancing Your Brand with Jukeboxy Music for Business:

Music does more than fill silence; it creates experiences, evokes emotions, and can significantly boost your marketing efforts. Jukeboxy’s subscription goes beyond music streaming, offering invaluable tools like in-store audio messaging and on-hold music services. These powerful marketing strategies not only enhance customer experience but also have the potential to increase your revenues by reinforcing your brand’s message and promoting your offerings effectively.

Integrating music into your business goes far beyond simply providing background noise—it’s a deliberate choice that can significantly influence your brand’s image, customer interaction, and overall revenue. Jukeboxy Music for business offers a wide array of licenses and cutting-edge streaming technology, making the complexities of music licensing for business straightforward and strategic. Adopt the full potential of music with Jukeboxy to turn your business environment into an acoustic experience that aligns with and amplifies your brand’s identity and values.

Revolutionizing Your Business Soundscape:

The journey into music licensing signifies more than legal compliance; it’s an exploration into the potential of music to revolutionize your business environment. With Jukeboxy, the complex world of music licensing becomes accessible, allowing you to unlock a soundscape that not only complements but elevates your brand. Step off the beaten path, dive into the diverse world of independent music, and let Jukeboxy guide you to a harmonious blend of compliance, creativity, and connection.

The post Power Up Your Business with Music: Music Licensing for Business appeared first on Jukeboxy Blog.

The Licensing Limitations Challenge

First of all, no such thing as Spotify for business exists! Commercial use of personal digital music streaming services, including Spotify, for playing music in your spotify business account is not allowed. As stated in Spotify’s Terms & Conditions : 

“ Subject to your compliance with these Terms (including any other applicable terms and conditions), we grant to you limited, non-exclusive, revocable permission to make personal, non-commercial use of the Spotify Service and the Content (collectively, “Access”). This Access shall remain in effect unless and until terminated by you or Spotify. You agree that you will not redistribute or transfer the Spotify Service or the Content.

The Spotify software applications and the Content are licensed, not sold or transferred to you, and Spotify and its licensors retain ownership of all copies of the Spotify software applications and Content even after installation on your Devices.” 

As seen, Spotify’s terms of service strictly state that their platform is for personal, non-commercial use only. Using a regular Spotify account to provide background music for your business could potentially result in legal consequences, including significant financial penalties.

Understanding Licensing Rights

ASCAP, BMI, and other performing rights organizations are essential in enabling the commercial use of music. Obtaining licenses from these organizations grants businesses the legal rights to publicly perform music from their vast catalogs while ensuring fair compensation for creators. With Jukeboxy, businesses can simplify the licensing process as Jukeboxy takes care of ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, GMR and other necessary licensing requirements. By partnering with Jukeboxy, businesses can enjoy a seamless and legally compliant music experience, knowing that their licensing needs are being handled by experts in the field.

Consequences of Unlicensed Use

Using Pandora, Spotify, or an unlicensed music collection for commercial purposes exposes business owners to legal risks. Violating copyright laws can lead to lawsuits, with potential penalties ranging from tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars. It’s essential for business owners to understand the regulations surrounding music licensing and to seek legal alternatives to avoid such liabilities. 

“ASCAP has filed lawsuits against Fatpour in Wicker Park and Kirkwood Bar in Lakeview, seeking $150,000 in damages for not purchasing a license to play songs, according to DNAInfo. According to the complaint, ASCAP repeatedly reached out to both bars in an attempt to have them submit into full compliance with the organization. A license for Fatpour would cost $2,800 a year while Kirkwood’s would cost $1,100 a year.” 

References : Chicagoist

Jukeboxy: Your Licensing Solution

Jukeboxy provides music for commercial use. With us, you gain access to over 45 million licensed songs, ensuring that the background music in your establishment is fully authorized. Jukeboxy takes care of all the necessary licensing aspects. This comprehensive approach ensures that you can enjoy a wide range of music options while staying compliant with copyright laws. Here are some advantages that make Jukeboxy the ideal music provider for your business :

• Legal Compliance: Jukeboxy’s licensing ensures that your business is fully compliant with licensing regulations, providing peace of mind and protecting you from potential legal issues
• Extensive Music Library: With access to over 45 million licensed songs, Jukeboxy offers a diverse range of genres and styles to create the perfect ambience for your business.
• Interactive and Manageable: Jukeboxy is designed to be user-friendly and easy to manage. You can customize playlists, schedule music for different times of the day, and even control the music remotely.
• Enhanced Customer Experience: By using licensed music, you demonstrate your respect for artists, authors, composers, and publishers. Providing a legal and enjoyable music experience contributes to an improved customer experience within your business.

When it comes to playing music for your business, it’s crucial to understand the licensing limitations associated with personal music streaming services like Spotify. Utilizing such platforms for commercial purposes can lead to legal complications and financial penalties. Instead, turn to Jukeboxy and enjoy a vast music library while ensuring legal compliance, enhancing your customer experience, and maintaining the integrity of the music industry.

The post Spotify and Business Use: Licensing Limitations Explained appeared first on Jukeboxy Blog.

Setting the Tone: Crafting a Luxurious Ambiance

In the highly competitive world of car sales, setting the right tone is essential. The ambiance you create within your showroom can make all the difference. Background music is a strategic tool to create an ambiance that puts customers in the mindset to make a purchase. From the moment they step in, the right notes can guide their emotions, making your showroom a memorable and exciting space.

Legal Issues: The Pitfalls of Unlicensed Music

Let’s delve into the legalities – a topic that might not be the most exciting but is unquestionably important. While using radio broadcasts is a common practice, it brings its share of problems, including bombarding your customers with competitor ads. With Jukeboxy, you get curated playlists tailored for businesses and ensure that every track is fully licensed. No legal headaches, no unwanted distractions – just a seamless and compliant audio experience for your customers. Elevating Car Dealership Atmosphere with Jukeboxy.

Licensing Peace of Mind: Jukeboxy’s Comprehensive Approach

At Jukeboxy, we bring a peace of mind. When it comes to background music for your car dealership, ensuring that every track is not only enjoyable but also complies with the Copyright Law is our top priority. That’s why Jukeboxy’s background music is fully licensed by a spectrum of prominent organizations, including ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, GMR, SoundExchange (USA), SOCAN, and Re:Sound (Canada). But what does this comprehensive licensing mean for your business?

Each organization represents an important piece of the licensing puzzle, ensuring that the artists, songwriters, and performers behind the music receive fair compensation for their work. From the major labels that dominate the charts to the indie gems that add a unique flavor to your playlists, Jukeboxy’s licensing covers the entire spectrum. It’s a comprehensive approach that guarantees the legitimacy of every track, creating a legal environment for your showroom.

The Cost-Efficient Advantage: Saving Dollars, Not Just Cents

Let’s talk dollars and sense. If your brand were to individually secure licenses from ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, GMR, SoundExchange (USA), SOCAN, and Re:Sound (Canada), the costs could quickly spiral. Each organization comes with its set of fees and covering them all separately could mean shelling out a substantial amount annually. The larger your showroom, the more you’d be paying.

Jukeboxy: Your Budget-Friendly Music Streaming Service

This is where Jukeboxy takes the stage as your budget-friendly partner. By bundling these licenses into our service, we simplify the process for you and offer a cost-efficient solution. Subscribing to Jukeboxy means you get the entire licensing for a fraction of the cost. It’s not just about enjoying curated playlists; it’s about enjoying them without spending big amounts.

A Sound Investment: Your Savings, Your Advantage

In the competitive world of car dealerships, every dollar counts. By choosing Jukeboxy Music, you’re investing in legal background music and making an affordable financial decision. It’s an investment that goes beyond creating an enhanced atmosphere—it’s about ensuring your budget works as hard as you do.

So, Elevating Car Dealership, why pay more for individual licenses when you can get the full ensemble with Jukeboxy? Join us in creating a budget-friendly, legitimate, and enjoyable soundtrack for your showroom. 

Boosting Sales Through Background Music

Consider background music as your silent salesman, working behind the scenes to influence customer behavior and enhance satisfaction. At Jukeboxy, our carefully curated playlists, extensive music library, and user-friendly scheduling features give you the tools to fine-tune your showroom’s atmosphere. Whether you’re aiming for an energetic vibe to match a bustling day or a more relaxed atmosphere for a laid-back weekend, we’ve got the beats to suit your brand’s unique personality.

Your Brand, Your Voice: Branded Announcements with Jukeboxy

Why settle for generic radio ads when you can showcase your brand with Jukeboxy’s in-store messaging feature? Seamlessly integrate targeted audio messages into your playlists, turning the browsing experience into an engaging and informative journey. With Jukeboxy Music’s in-store audio messaging feature, delivering timely information about special offers, new vehicle arrivals, and exclusive promotions directly to customers as they explore your showroom is super easy. It’s not just about music; it’s about creating a complete and immersive shopping experience.

Navigate the Future with Jukeboxy: Your Roadmap to Success

Car sales business is ever-evolving. Staying ahead in such markets means embracing innovative solutions. Jukeboxy isn’t just a music streaming service; it’s your strategic partner in crafting an atmosphere that drives sales, enhances customer satisfaction, and solidifies your brand identity. So, Elevating Car Dealership, level up your showroom experience with Jukeboxy Music. Bid farewell to outdated trends, and let’s hit the road to a more engaging, more branded, and more successful dealership journey.

Rev up your showroom experience with a 14-day free trial of Jukeboxy Music – no credit card, no commitment. Just pure, licensed music tailored to your dealership’s vibe. Sign up today and discover how the right tunes can drive sales and create the perfect atmosphere. Your journey to an enhanced showroom begins here, risk-free!

Elevating Car Dealership Atmosphere with Jukeboxy. Sign-up and try Jukeboxy for free here!

The post Revolutionize Your Showroom: Elevating Car Dealership Atmosphere with Jukeboxy appeared first on Jukeboxy Blog.

Environmental factors can have a powerful effect on our mood and productivity. Creating a space that helps us stay focused, energized, and motivated throughout the workday is crucial. Here are some key considerations for selecting the perfect elements to enhance productivity in the workplace:

The Effect of Music on Mood and Productivity

Research has shown that music can have a significant impact on our mood and productivity levels. It can help to reduce stress and anxiety, improve our mood, and increase our focus and motivation. The right music can also help to create a positive and enjoyable work environment.

The Importance of Selecting the Right Tempo, Genre, and Volume

Tempo, genre, and volume all play important roles in optimizing workplace productivity with music. The tempo can affect our heart rate and breathing, while the genre can influence our emotional state and overall mood. The volume levels can also impact our ability to concentrate and stay focused.

For example, faster tempos are ideal for tasks that require high levels of focus and energy, such as data entry or brainstorming sessions. Slower tempos are better suited for tasks that require more creative thinking, such as writing or designing. Classical music has been shown to be particularly effective at improving focus and productivity due to its complex and calming melodies.

Extra Read: Music Genres

The Concept of the “Mozart Effect” and its Potential Impact on Productivity

The “Mozart Effect” refers to the theory that listening to classical music, particularly the works of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, can improve cognitive performance and productivity. While the theory has been disputed, many people still find that listening to classical music helps them stay focused and productive throughout the workday.

Overall, selecting the right music for the office environment can have a significant impact on mood, productivity, and overall work satisfaction. By considering the tempo, genre, and volume of the music, you can create the perfect atmosphere for your work environment.

Best Music for the Office Environment

Selecting the right music for the office environment can be a daunting task.

Here are some factors to consider when choosing the perfect music for your workplace:

• The nature of the work being done in the office
• The size and layout of the office space
• The personal preferences of employees
• The noise levels of the surrounding environment
• The company’s brand and image
• Recommended genres for different types of tasks

For tasks that require high levels of focus and energy, such as data entry or brainstorming sessions, try:

• Electronic music, such as techno or trance
• Pop or rock music with upbeat tempos
• Hip-hop or rap music with energetic beats

For tasks that require more creative thinking, such as writing or designing, try:

• Classical music, such as piano sonatas or string quartets
• Jazz music with smooth and calming melodies
• Ambient or instrumental music with atmospheric soundscapes

For energetic and upbeat music:

“High Tempo – Recent Pop” playlist

“Upbeat Happy Hour” playlist

“Popular Dance” Playlist

For calming and relaxing music:

“Classical Music for Studying” playlist

“Popular Smooth Jazz” playlist

“Relaxing Songs” playlist

Sheet Music for the Office: A Unique Option

While pre-recorded music is a popular option for office environments, using sheet music can be a unique and effective alternative.

Here are some benefits of using sheet music in the office:

Customization: With sheet music, you have the ability to customize the music to fit your specific office environment and tasks.

Focus: Sheet music provides a way to eliminate distractions caused by lyrics and other elements of pre-recorded music, allowing employees to focus more easily.

Mental stimulation: Playing music from sheet music can provide a mental workout for employees, helping them stay alert and engaged throughout the workday.

Music for Workplace Atmosphere

Hire a pianist: If you have the budget and space, hiring a pianist to play live music in your office can be a great way to create a unique atmosphere.

Encourage employee participation: Consider creating a music club or offering piano lessons to employees who are interested in learning to play. This can create a sense of community and provide a fun activity for breaks or after-hours.

Placing sheet music in common areas such as break rooms or waiting areas can provide a source of entertainment and mental stimulation for employees and visitors.

Music Licensing for Offices

Playing music in a public space, such as an office, requires a license to ensure that the appropriate royalties are paid to the artists and copyright holders.

Here’s what you need to know about music licensing requirements for businesses:

Music licensing for businesses is typically handled by performance rights organizations (PROs), such as ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, and GMR. These organizations collect royalties on behalf of songwriters, composers, and music publishers when their music is played in public spaces.

Extra Read: A Guide to ASCAP Licensing for Music in Your Business

Incorporating music into the office environment can have a positive impact on mood and productivity, as long as the right music is selected. Consider the tempo, genre, and volume of the music when making your selection, and remember the potential benefits of the “Mozart Effect.”

Jukeboxy offers a wide range of music solutions for businesses, including carefully curated playlists to incorporate into your office environment. Our music solutions include all necessary licensing fees, so you can enjoy worry-free music playback while ensuring that artists and copyright holders receive their due compensation. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help enhance your office environment with the perfect music selection.

The post The Science Behind Choosing the Music for Office Productivity appeared first on Jukeboxy Blog.

What is a PRO?

Performing rights organizations (PROs), also known as performing rights societies, collect royalties on behalf of songwriters and publishers, creating a link between owners of composition rights and music users (from radio stations to streaming services to your local business broadcasting music). 

As a technical matter, PROs are just a subset of a broader landscape of collective management organizations (or CMOs), which handle royalties due to public broadcasters of music works.

What is ASCAP? Why should I know about them if I want to stream music in my business?

ASCAP is a short form for the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers. It is a not-for-profit membership organization representing more than 850,000 songwriters, composers, lyricists, and music publishers. They are the only performing rights organization that was formed and is run entirely by its members. ASCAP catalog has more than 16 million musical works. Their members receive royalties ensuring that their hard work is compensated.

In 2021 alone, $1,254 billion in royalties made available for their 850,000 members.

How do ASCAP fees work?

ASCAP provides a wide array of licensing options to accommodate the varied needs of businesses using music. With over 100 different license types available, ASCAP ensures that businesses from all sectors can find a licensing solution that aligns with their specific requirements. As a business owner, exploring ASCAP’s diverse offerings is crucial to understanding the potential costs associated with using music in your operations. Whether you run a small cafe, a large retail chain, or host live events, there is an ASCAP license tailored to your business’s size, type, and music usage frequency. Each license is designed to cover the use of any song within ASCAP’s extensive catalog for a specified period, typically on an annual basis.

To effectively manage the music licensing fees, it’s important for business owners to assess their music usage and choose the most appropriate ASCAP license. This process involves considering factors such as the type of venue, the frequency of music played, and the audience size. By carefully selecting the right type of license, businesses can ensure they are fully compliant with copyright laws while supporting the artists and composers whose music enriches their customer experience. Purchasing an annual license from ASCAP not only legalizes the use of a vast catalog of music but also contributes to the ongoing creation and distribution of music by compensating the creators fairly.

How much does ASCAP licensing cost?

The cost varies depending on the business type or size and the intended use of the ASCAP license. They charge an annual fee for access to their library. Some of the variables for the licensing costs are: 

• the type of business
• whether the musical work is performed live or recorded
• the size of the potential audience at the venue

The minimum ASCAP music licensing fees are $390 per year, so you will never pay less than that to access their catalog.

How much to join ASCAP?

To join ASCAP, you must pay a one-time fee of $50, whether you’re a songwriter, composer, or publisher. This fee grants you access to ASCAP’s extensive catalog of over 16 million musical works and ensures you receive royalties for your creations. Once a member, ASCAP handles the licensing of your music and collects royalties on your behalf, allowing you to focus on your creative work while ensuring you are fairly compensated whenever your music is played publicly.

What is included in an ASCAP license?

A license from ASCAP gives a user access to the PRO’s repertoire, which includes millions of songs by famous and brand-new artists over many decades. ASCAP offers different licenses for various types of performances, including cover songs, recorded music played in public, ads, feature films, etc. 

With an annual contract with ASCAP, you are only receiving the rights to use the music in your venue; you are not getting a subscription to a music streaming service and music streaming license cost. 

Do I always have to pay the license fee to ASCAP?

According to ASCAP, you do not have to license the music when you play music for a small area through the radio or television in your establishment “if the performance is by means of public communication of TV or radio transmissions ” says ASCAP. 

However, you will need to contact a PRO like ASCAP for larger sound systems. Businesses with more than 3,750 gross square feet of space must purchase licenses to access ASCAP’s catalog. There are around 150 licensing representatives who work for ASCAP across the U.S. They inspect venues to ensure no violations of in-store copyright exist.

How much is the fine if I didn’t pay for the ASCAP license?

Failing to obtain the necessary ASCAP license for playing music in your business can lead to severe financial consequences. The penalties for violating ASCAP copyrights can range from $750 to $30,000 per violation, depending on the severity and nature of the infringement. These figures aren’t arbitrary; they are grounded in federal copyright law, which outlines statutory damages for copyright infringement. For businesses, this means that each unauthorized use of a song could potentially result in a hefty fine, rapidly accumulating significant costs that could impact the financial health of the business.

Historical examples illustrate the seriousness with which these fines are enforced. Numerous businesses across various industries have faced substantial penalties for not securing proper music licenses. For instance, a small bar or a restaurant playing copyrighted music without a license could end up paying thousands of dollars in fines after a routine inspection or a reported violation. Larger establishments, such as nightclubs or event venues, where music is a central element of the atmosphere, have also been subjected to fines reaching the upper limit of the statutory range when multiple violations are involved. These examples serve as a stark reminder of the importance of compliance with copyright laws, emphasizing the need for all businesses using music to secure the appropriate licenses from entities like ASCAP.

Must Read: ASCAP Sues 13 Venues Nationwide – How To Comply With The Copyright Law?

Buying an ASCAP license isn’t the only option out there

Buying an ASCAP license isn’t the only option out there for businesses looking to use music legally. While ASCAP is a major player among Performing Rights Organizations (PROs) and is known for its transparent pricing structure, it might not always be the ideal choice for every business. ASCAP’s extensive catalog covers a broad range of music, which could be a perfect fit if their library matches your business’s musical needs. However, it’s important to note that many artists distribute their rights across various PROs, not just ASCAP. This distribution means you might find yourself needing to secure licenses from multiple PROs to access a comprehensive range of music that fits your brand or customer experience perfectly.

Acquiring these licenses from ASCAP or other PROs like BMI or SESAC doesn’t include a music streaming service. You would still need to subscribe to a separate music service provider that offers a professional, ad-free, and high-quality music streaming service. The cumulative costs of licensing and streaming can escalate quickly, making it essential to consider all aspects of music usage and potential expenses. Given these considerations, exploring alternatives such as direct licensing deals or different music services that bundle licensing fees into their subscriptions might prove more cost-effective and tailored to specific business needs. This holistic approach ensures you’re not only compliant with copyright laws but also managing your music-related costs efficiently.

ASCAP or BMI? Do I need both ASCAP and BMI?

You probably will need both ASCAP and BMI licenses to play a variety of artists and songs in your establishment. As mentioned above, there are four PROs in the United States representing musical works of different songwriters, composers, and publishers. A song you stream at your businesses may be in BMI’s catalog and not ASCAP. 

For example, if you played one song licensed through ASCAP and another through BMI, you would have to pay licensing fees to both organizations. So should I buy a license from both?

Let’s give you another example:

Suppose you like the musical band Old Dominion and want to have access to all their discography. In that case, you then need both BMI and ASCAP licenses. Why?

“Break Up With Him,” performed by Old Dominion, is registered with ASCAP. On the other hand, their song “Bad At Love” is controlled by both BMI (74.99%) and ASCAP (25%). In this case, you need licenses from both organizations, as these songs involve ASCAP members.

Suppose you do not want to negotiate a contract and pay licensing fees to a PRO like ASCAP or BMI. In that case, you can search for other types of songs, such as royalty-free songs, Creative Commons music, or public domain music.

However, these options have no trendy or famous songs, which may not be the best option for storefront music or background music for business settings. Finding the fitting soundtracks for business use may also be time-consuming and frustrating with these solutions.

Great Alternative for Streaming Business Music: Jukeboxy

As an alternative to paying licensing fees to the PROs and spending time to find fitting music for your business, you can subscribe to commercial music streaming services, such as Jukeboxy Music for Business. 

With more than 45 million songs in its library, Jukeboxy Music has one of the largest music libraries in the industry. Their database provides your business with the best variety of music from ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, and GMR libraries. All at a much lower price than buying licensed music from PROs.

The post A Guide to ASCAP Licensing for Music in your Business appeared first on Jukeboxy Blog.

BMI Music License (Broadcast Music, Inc.) is a music performing right organization (PRO). It represents more than 1.1 million songwriters, composers, and music publishers from different music genres. PROs collect license fees from businesses that play songs from the songwriters and singers they represent. The establishments required to pay licensing fees for the music that include websites, retail stores, televisions and radio stations, nightclubs, hotels, bars, restaurants, public establishments, and internet or mobile technologies.

BMI Music License

BMI is a music licensor tasked with collecting licensing fees later distributed as royalties to the artists they represent. If you are looking to publicly play copyrighted music, you need to obtain a performing license from the PRO. You can’t play copyrighted music publicly without these licenses. The copyright law insists that enterprises must obtain permission from songwriters, composers, and artists before they can publicly play songs.

Copyrights are classified under intellectual property law. They protect creative content and creative expression, including books, movies, million musical works, drawings, photographs, and software codes. The copyrights are obtained to prevent unfair use of said material and offer financial compensation to the copyright owners. The BMI music license fee keeps the artists in the business and helps them keep creating content.

Ignoring copyright laws, whether knowingly or unknowingly, and using copyrighted material without the proper licensing puts your business owners liable for fines that add up to thousands of dollars or other legal action from copyright licensors like BMI for copyright infringement. By complying with copyright law, businesses keep themselves away from lawsuits that could impact their business and ensure that content creators receive their dues.

BMI licensing costs for an average establishment

The average BMI music license for businesses costs a handsome fee of $250 to $400 annually. This amount could increase up to $2000 depending on a variety of factors. Some factors considered are the size of the business, the number of locations, how many speakers you have in each room, and the maximum occupancy.

For a retail business with a single location covering up to 5000 Square ft. and only four speakers, their BMI music licensing fee would be $460 per year. And the more speakers you have and new locations, the higher the cost goes. However, the BMI music license fees vary and have exceptions for specific businesses and use cases specified by BMI.

The BMI music license only covers content from artists under BMI. You’ll still need to obtain permits from other PROs to play music under their catalog. Since BMI doesn’t hold a monopoly as a PRO, other PROs also issue licenses for artists registered under them. However, this is where the disparity comes in, and the larger you want your playlist to be, the more you’ll have to pay licensing fees. Since PROs do not collaborate, having a license from one doesn’t protect you from lawsuits and fines from the other PROs.

The role of a BMI representative

A BMI representative plays a crucial role in the music industry, serving as a bridge between songwriters, composers, and the establishments that wish to use their musical works. These representatives ensure that all parties involved in the music playing process adhere to copyright laws within the United States. They are responsible for educating businesses about the importance of obtaining a performing license to legally play songs. This support not only protects the rights of music creators but also ensures that establishments are legally covered when they use copyrighted music.

To legally play any commercially available song, you will need all the licenses. For the same type of establishment, i.e., retail business, single location, 5000 square ft. and only four speakers, ASCAP charges $298 per year, and SESAC fees are around that same figure. If the $1000+ annual cost for all licenses and the time spent applying and waiting to seem like a lot, then the fines you will face for copyright infringement are certainly something to consider.

A much cheaper and recommended alternative for music streaming is to subscribe to a commercially licensed background music provider like Jukeboxy Music for Business. Subscribing to one of these licensed providers gives you access to all your favorite tracks at less than half the price and time you would’ve spent on per location licenses.

What happens if a business doesn’t pay for BMI licenses through BMI or a BMI licensed background music service provider like Jukeboxy?

Tempting as it is to play music without paying licensing fees, the legal action taken by the PROs for copyright infringement will cost your company a lot more than the price tag of the license. The public performance, playing the music of any type on your premises, whether performed live or streamed over the speakers, is covered under copyright laws. If you want to play it, you have to pay for it. Suppose investigators of the PROs discover your business has played music without obtaining the necessary licenses. In that case, they might reach out to you requesting payment for the musical works played or take legal action in the form of a lawsuit.

The financial consequences of ignoring the licensing laws are severe. For establishments not licensed under the individual PROs like BMI or licensed music streaming providers like Jukeboxy, the fines range from $750 for every unauthorized playback instance. This fee can go upwards of $150,000 when the court finds out you did it willingly and knowingly that it was illegal. If you lose the case—which usually happens—you will have to pay the PROs’ legal fees.

Paying for a BMI music license, whether directly or through a business music provider, keeps your establishment on the safe side of the copyright law. When it comes to music licensing laws, ignorance of the law is not the absence of the law.

Other players in the music licensing sector

Like BMI, there are several other organizations like ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers) and SESAC (Society of European Stage Authors and Composers). Together, they are tasked with licensing the copyrighted works of songwriters, composers, and music publishers. They collect the royalty fees and distribute them to the artists.

Combined, they represent more than 20 million artists in the United States, with each PRO charging different music licensing fees to play musical works from their catalog. 

Like BMI representatives, all other PRO’s have investigators identifying establishments playing unlicensed music from their catalog. They will attempt to obtain the fees or take legal action for non-compliance. Licenses from every PRO will fill in the gaps not covered by another PRO and give you access to more music to play, which could be expensive. A subscription to a licensed music streaming provider, like Jukeboxy, will cover the copyrighted music from all PROs libraries. 

Subscribe to Jukeboxy for a 14-Day Free Trial

The post What is a BMI licensing for businesses, and why do businesses need to comply with Copyright Law? appeared first on Jukeboxy Blog.

As we discussed in our other blog posts, background music is crucial for any type of business, including banks.

We had a quick chat with one of our customers Tim Bradshaw, Technology and Security Officer at CNB Bank & Trust and asked him a few questions about background music and Jukeboxy Music service.

Jukeboxy – Hi, Tim. Thanks for taking the time to chat with us today. Can you please explain why playing music at CNB Bank & Trust is important?

Tim Bradshaw – In the banking industry, it is important to have background music playing to help cover up personal conversations in the teller area as well as in the offices.  

JB – Which other music options have you tried before Jukeboxy Music and what made you continue with the subscription to Jukeboxy after the trial period?

Tim Bradshaw – We have used a couple of companies for music such as Muzak and Play Network.  The music selections were not customizable like Jukeboxy is.  The music selections are so easy to select, mix and push out to the venue player and it can be monitored and controlled by the customer portal.

JB – How is the communication with Jukeboxy Music when you need assistance?

Tim Bradshaw – Our Jukeboxy representative monitors our players and they will let me know that a player is offline before I even know that it is down.  I couldn’t ask for better service.

JB – Would you recommend Jukeboxy Music to other businesses?

Tim Bradshaw – Yes, I have been very pleased with switching to Jukeboxy.  They have taken the load off my shoulders making sure that we are in compliance and the artists receive royalties as they should. 

JB – Would you like to add anything else?

Tim Bradshaw – Yes! Our company switched to Jukeboxy to provide background music in our banks to help cover up personal conversations on the teller line or in an office and our employees can also enjoy music while they are working.  In the banking industry, the ages of our customers vary and so does their taste in music.  With Jukeboxy, it has been so simple to mix different genres of music and keep everyone satisfied without offending or disturbing anyone.  It has been a great change for us and we expect to continue service for many years to come.

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Jukeboxy Manager App for Remote Business Music Management

Below is a quick video for Jukeboxy Manager App, which is the remote control app for the Jukeboxy Venue Player. The app connects to your player from anywhere in the world and let’s you manage and control the music at your business remotely. 

If you haven’t tried Jukeboxy Music for Business yet, you can try for free for 14-Days. No cc, no obligation. 

Start A Free Trial!

Thanks for visiting! 

Jukeboxy Music for Business 

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Family-Friendly Music for Your Business. Have your customers ever complain about the music playing at your business because of not so family-friendly lyrics? 

Music is a crucial part of any business.

Good background music can and will help your business to achieve higher sales. But, it can also harm your business if it is not used correctly. 

If you are running a business where explicit music is a NO-NO, you do want to be extra cautious with the music service you choose. You may be unintentionally streaming explicit songs in your business. Especially, if you are using services like Spotify or Apple Music which are intended for personal use, not for businesses. Yes, these services provide “Explicit” content warnings, but up to a certain level. 

How Explicit Filtering Works at Jukeboxy?

We often hear the same question from the potential subscribers “Do you have explicit content filtering?” Our answer is simple “We do, and our explicit content filtering is the most reliable one in the industry”.  

How? You may ask. In 2015, we developed a state-of-the-art lyric checking and filtering system. Each track goes through multiple layers of content inspection to be tagged as clean or explicit before it makes its way into Jukeboxy playlists. 

For us, “Explicit” doesn’t mean just some curse words, it is also the context of the song. Lyrics that refer to situations or actions that aren’t suitable for all ages and businesses get the “X” from us and are being tagged as “explicit”, and in some cases, we decide not to include the track in our playlists at all. 

Did you know that there are Christmas songs that have explicit lyrics? We can imagine you wouldn’t be too happy when your customers hear an explicit Christmas song in your business. That’s why we take explicit content filtering very seriously at Jukeboxy Music for Business. 

How about businesses that do like to play explicit songs?

I can hear you asking “I have a business that my customers don’t mind hearing explicit songs. Does it mean we will never hear the original song?” Of course not!  

From Hotels to Retail Shops to Sports Bars and Restaurants,  different types of venues use Jukeboxy Music for Business. Some of our customers do want to include explicit content, therefore, we give full control to our customers to include or exclude explicit songs. 

Every account comes with explicit content “off” by default. Therefore, Jukeboxy customers hear family-friendly and business-appropriate tracks the moment they log-in to their Jukeboxy Venue Player. However, they have the option to turn the explicit lyrics on if they like to. 

Rest assured, music at your business is safe and customizable with Jukeboxy Music.

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30 Songs to Keep You Motivated and Happy—Even on Mondays! Feeling the Monday blues or a lack of motivation? Dive into this playlist of 30 uplifting, energizing, and motivational upbeat songs to instantly elevate your mood and boost your happiness. The start of the week can often feel daunting, with the weekend fading into memory and a long stretch of workdays ahead. However, the right music can make all the difference. This carefully curated selection features a mix of timeless classics and modern hits, each chosen to inspire positivity and drive. Whether you’re tackling a challenging project or just trying to get through your emails, these tracks will help transform your Monday—and any day—into something as enjoyable as a sunny Friday afternoon. So put on your headphones and let these melodies recharge your spirits and motivate you to conquer the week with renewed energy and enthusiasm.

1. Beautiful Day – U2

2. Get Up – R.E.M.

3. Eye of The Tiger – Survivor

4. We Are The Champions – Queen

5. Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You) – Kelly Clarkson

6. I’m Still Standing – Elton John

7. Here Comes The Sun – Beatles

8. Happy – Pharrell Williams

9. Lovely Day – Bill Whithers

10. Get Lucky – Daft Punk

11. Don’t Worry Be Happy – Bobby McFerrin

12. Shiny Happy People – R.E.M.

13. I Gotta Feeling – The Black Eyed Peas

14. Good Vibrations – The Beach Boys

15. Just The Way You Are – Bruno Mars

16. Roar – Katy Perry

17. Uptown Girl – Billy Joel

18. Best Day of My Life – American Authors

19. Take On Me – A-HA

20. I’m So Excited – The Pointer Sisters

21. Don’t Stop Believin’ – Journey

22. Dream On – Aerosmith

23. So What – P!nk

24. I Will Survive – Gloria Gaynor

25. Hey Ya – Outkast

26. Don’t Stop The Music – Rihanna

27. Beat It – Michael Jackson

28. It’s My Life – Bon Jovi

29. In The End – Linkin Park

30. Flashdance… What a Feeling – Irene Cara

30 Songs to Keep You Motivated and Happy – even on Mondays! We hope you are already feeling better! And there you have it – 30 sensational tracks to keep your spirits high and your feet tapping, even when monday songs feel like an uphill battle. Music has the magical power to transform our mood and outlook, and we hope this playlist does just that for you. Whether you’re commuting, working out, or just needing a little pick-me-up, let these motivation songs be your musical companions through the week. Remember, every motivational upbeat songs is a chance for a fresh start and a new rhythm. So turn up the volume, embrace the beats, and let’s make every day count!

Jukeboxy Music 

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We often mention the importance of background music in retail shops as in our article “Achieve Higher Sales in Your Store with Right Music” .

Following is a nice article about the music in grocery stores by Jesse Sendejas JR at Houston Press. Jukeboxy’s Founder and CEO, Orhun Oguzulgen contributed to the article by sharing his knowledge about the type of music choices in retail shops particularly the impact of slow tempo music on grocery shopping behaviors and how stores play music to influence shoppers.

Why Does the Grocery Store Insist on Playing Old Music?

JESSE SENDEJAS JR. | SEPTEMBER 5, 2019 | 4:00AM

If you’re in the grocery store today, listen to the music, as the Doobie Brothers once sang. In fact, there’s a pretty good chance you’ll actually hear the Doobs singing that very song once you tune into the subtle, but important music soundtracking your shopping excursion. In an era where social media watchdogs warn how your data might be used to influence you in all sorts of sneaky ways, practically everyone we asked understands and accepts that music in grocery stores is there to control what and how much you put into your shopping cart. 

But what is it about older music that appeals to so many shoppers?

“There are a few reasons but the most important one would be songs from that era bring up the fond memories of ‘the good old days,’” explained Orhun Oguzulgen, founder and CEO of Jukeboxy Music for Business, which provides licensed music to retailers. “When people hear songs that remind them of good memories, they feel more connected with the brand and their shopping behavior changes, in a positive way for the retailer.”

Read More Here

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Did you know that plants grow faster when they hear music? In fact, a study by South Korean scientists at National Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology suggests that plants can hear because they have the “genes”.

If you have plants in your office or own a flower shop, play some music in your business and watch how fast your plants grow.

Sound and Plant Growth

Research suggests that any sound, including music, helps plant growth. How? Vibrations from the sound waves stimulate growth factors in plants and also warn them from the predators. Remember the days when your mom was talking to the plants and you were wondering what is wrong with her? Apparently, she was perfectly fine. Moms always know better!

Music and Plant Growth

South Korean scientists at National Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology played classical music in rice fields and discovered that the crops grew faster.

In another research, a group of plants were exposed to six hours of music and others were in a quiet room. The plants in “music room” grew faster than the “quiet room” plants.

It’s not necessarily the music that makes the plants grow faster. It’s the vibration from the sound waves, all sorts of sound, as mentioned above. However, isn’t it better if they hear music then not so pleasant sounds like cars, people walking around, etc.? Also, why leave them quiet when the nursery is closed? Play some music during off-hours in the nursery and watch how fast the plants grow.

Interesting Fact: Plants like having plant friends around!

It seems like, plants communicate with each other and listen to the vibrations of other plants. They grow healthier and faster when they have plant friends around. Also, research suggests that plants may let other plants know of danger around them like leaf eating insects. When other plants receive the “heads up”, they may stop growing until they deem it is safe to grow again. Isn’t it magnificent?

Jukeboxy Music for your Flower Shop or Greenery

If you own a flower shop or a gardening business, we can help you with your crops’ happiness and growth. Our curators can help you to schedule the right music for your business by day-part for the entire week. With our dedicated hardware, Jukeboxy Player Box, we can also schedule music volume levels by the hour. Higher volume when your customers are around and lower volume when your plants need some time to rest and grow.

To learn more about our services, call us at 844-666-5853.

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