Music Licensing FAQ
Music Licensing for Radio & Streaming
If you are operating an FM radio station, internet radio service, or podcast platform, you must comply with music licensing laws before broadcasting copyrighted music.
This guide explains how music licensing works in North America and Europe, and what organizations you need to contact to stay compliant.
1. What is Music Licensing?
Music licensing is the legal permission required to play copyrighted music in public broadcasts, including:
- FM radio stations
- Internet radio (live streaming)
- Mobile apps and streaming platforms
- Podcasts containing music
Without proper licensing, broadcasting copyrighted music is not permitted.
2. Music Licensing in the United States 🇺🇸
In the United States, music rights are managed by different organizations depending on the type of rights involved.
Songwriters & Publishers:
These organizations represent composers, songwriters, and publishers.
Recorded Music (Artists & Labels)
- SoundExchange 🌐
SoundExchange is required for digital streaming services such as internet radio (non-interactive streaming).
3. Music Licensing in Canada
In Canada, licensing is handled by: 🇨🇦
These organizations manage both composition and recording rights.
4. Music Licensing in Europe
Europe uses country-based licensing organizations. Each country has its own system.
Common examples include:
- PRS for Music (United Kingdom) 🌐
- PPL (United Kingdom – recorded music rights) 🌐
- GEMA (Germany) 🌐
- SIAE (Italy) 🌐
Each country requires separate licensing depending on where your audience is located.
5. FM Radio vs Internet Radio
FM & AM Radio stations require:
- Local performance rights licenses
- Broadcast regulatory approval (FCC, CRTC, ASCAP, BMI, SESAC etc.)
- No SoundExchange needed for pure analog AM broadcast.
Internet radio requires:
- Performance rights licenses
- Digital streaming licenses
- Royalties for both composition and recording rights
6. Podcasts and Music Usage
- Talk-only podcasts usually do not require music licensing
- Podcasts with music require proper rights clearance
- Even short clips, intros, or background music must be licensed
7. What Happens Without a License?
Streaming music without proper licensing can lead to:
- Copyright strikes
- Removal of streams
- Legal penalties or fines
- Platform shutdowns
8. Final Note
Licensing requirements vary depending on:
- Country
- Audience size
- Commercial vs non-commercial use
- Type of streaming service
It is always recommended to contact the proper licensing organizations before starting a broadcast service.
Need Help?
If you are setting up an FM station or internet radio platform, Streaming Pulse can help guide you through the technical setup and point you in the right direction for licensing compliance.