This document outlines the essential requirements for obtaining the necessary music licenses for businesses operating in the United Kingdom. It is important to ensure your business is compliant with copyright laws when playing music in public.
Understanding Music Licensing
In the UK, playing copyrighted music in public requires licenses from Performing Right Society (PRS) for Music and Phonographic Performance Limited (PPL). These licenses ensure that songwriters, composers, and recording artists are compensated for the use of their work.
PRS for Music
PRS for Music represents the rights of songwriters, composers, and music publishers. Their license is required for playing the musical composition, or the lyrics and melody, of a song.
PPL
PPL represents the rights of record companies and performers. Their license is required for playing recorded music, which includes the specific recording of a song.
Types of Businesses Requiring Licenses
Many businesses require these licenses if they play music in public. Some examples include:
- Retail stores
- Restaurants and cafes
- Bars and nightclubs
- Gyms and fitness centers
- Hotels and accommodation providers
- Offices (if music is played in common areas)
Obtaining the Licenses
Businesses typically need to obtain licenses from both PRS for Music and PPL separately. Each organization has its own fee structure, which varies depending on the size and type of business, as well as the extent of music use.
Here is a general comparison between the two licensing bodies:
| Licensing Body | Represents | License Required For |
|---|---|---|
| PRS for Music | Songwriters, Composers, Publishers | Musical Composition (Lyrics and Melody) |
| PPL | Record Companies, Performers | Recorded Music (Specific Recording of a Song) |
Failure to obtain the necessary music licenses can result in legal action and fines. It is crucial to ensure your business complies with UK copyright laws when playing music in public.
Once you have a site license from the PRS/PPL the music you play must also be commercially licensed for public performance. Domestic music streaming services such as Apple Music, Amazon, Deezer, Spotify and others are not licensed for public performance, they are unlicensed domestic services for home use only. As per their own T&C’s these services are not for public performance.
Licensed Music Streaming
A site license allows license holders to play the radio, which is licensed at source and paid for via advertising. Or businesses can subscribe to a PRS/PPL registered commercially licensed supplier like Auracle Sound where all content is licensed for public performance.
Legal Music for UK Businesses
It is essential for businesses in the United Kingdom to understand and comply with music licensing laws when playing music in public spaces. Playing copyrighted music without the appropriate licenses can result in legal action and penalties.
Here is some important information regarding the use of licensed music subscriptions:
- Public Performance of Music: When music is played in a public setting, it is considered a “public performance.” This includes playing music in retail stores, restaurants, offices, gyms, and other business premises.
- Copyright and Licensing: Copyright law protects music, and businesses need permission to play copyrighted music publicly. This permission comes in the form of licenses from music licensing organizations.
- Licensed Music Subscriptions: UK businesses must use a licensed music subscription service that provides the necessary licenses for public performance. These services ensure that the appropriate royalties are paid to the music creators.
- Avoid Unlicensed Use: Using personal music streaming services or CDs to play music in public is often not permitted. These services are typically licensed for personal, private use only.
The following table outlines some common scenarios for music use and licensing considerations.
| Scenario | License Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Playing music in a retail store | Yes | Must use a licensed music subscription for public performance. |
| Playing music in a restaurant | Yes | Must use a licensed music subscription for public performance. |
| Playing music in an office | Yes | Even background music requires a license. |
| Playing personal music streaming in a retail store | No | This is not allowed. |
| Playing radio in a private office | Potentially | Check the terms of the radio station license. |
Failure to obtain the appropriate music licenses can result in legal action, including fines and penalties. It is important for businesses to ensure they are compliant with UK copyright law regarding the public performance of music.
For more detailed information, it is recommended to contact a music licensing organization or seek legal advice.
