Understand BMI licensing
The American music licensing landscape is complicated. Every American PRO represents a specific group of music creators with unique music catalogs. BMI is one of the biggest and oldest American PROs, representing over 1.4 million composers, songwriters and publishers. A BMI license unlocks BMI’s music catalog for your business.
When a business needs a BMI music license
To play songs from BMI’s catalog, you need the license that corresponds to your business type (e.g., restaurant, hotel, bar). This license allows you to play music from the likes of Taylor Swift, Miles Davis or the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
Note: a BMI license doesn’t cover songs from other PROs. To play music licensed by ASCAP, GMR or SESAC, you need to get licenses from them too.
Soundtrack: the easy option
Skip the headache
Music licensing can be a costly headache. Don’t bother with the chaos: use Soundtrack instead. In the US, Soundtrack includes the public performance licenses you need from BMI, ASCAP, GMR and SESAC.
Everything included
Sign up to avoid handling multiple PROs. Your background music from Soundtrack is complete with access to music from BMI, ASCAP, GMR and SESAC. A letter from BMI doesn’t settle whether you owe a fee: that depends on which music you play and where it comes from. Music played through Soundtrack is covered by your plan.
How much does a BMI music license cost?
The cost of BMI’s licenses depends on a number of things. The business type determines your license type. Square footage, capacity, entrance fees or the number of guests present can also alter the fees.
BMI doesn’t have uniform license prices. Fee structures aren’t flat and prices change annually.
FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about BMI licensing.
Do I need a BMI license if I use Spotify?
You can’t use Spotify in your business. The terms and conditions are clear: Spotify is only available for personal use.
Is BMI legitimate?
BMI is a legitimate organization. Known formally as Broadcast Music, Inc., BMI is a performing rights organization in the United States. Its members are composers, songwriters and publishers. BMI collects licensing fees for them and distributes their royalties.
How does BMI calculate its fees?
BMI doesn’t have a flat rate. It uses calculations specific to each venue type.
Does Soundtrack replace direct agreements with BMI?
For music played through Soundtrack, yes. Soundtrack users in the US don’t need to get licensed directly from BMI for that music. BMI music from other sources, such as live bands or DJs, isn’t covered.
