ASCAP music licensing for businesses
An ASCAP licence lets your business publicly perform songs from ASCAP's catalogue. But ASCAP is one of four US PROs, so on its own it leaves gaps.
Included with SoundMachine
ASCAP public performance licensing for background music, together with BMI, SESAC and GMR, from $26.95 a month.
ASCAP
BMI
SESAC
GMR
What is ASCAP?
The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) is a member-owned nonprofit founded in 1914 in New York City. It represents more than a million songwriters, composers and publishers, licensing their music for public performance in businesses, on radio and TV, and on digital platforms, then distributing royalties to the rights holders.
What counts as a public performance
Under US copyright law, a public performance happens when music is played in a place open to the public, or where a substantial number of people beyond family and friends are present. That includes most business environments and, in some cases, staff-only areas or private events on commercial premises. It applies whether the source is an MP3, a CD or a radio stream.
Why one licence isn't enough
Each PRO represents different songwriters. Switch licences on and off to see how much of a typical 12-song playlist you'd actually be covered for.
- 01Golden Hour DriveThe Pale CoastBMI
- 02Paper LanternsMila RhodesASCAP
- 03Somewhere BrighterJuniper LaneBMI
- 04Velvet MorningOtis CallowayASCAP
- 05Slow TideHarbour LightsSESAC
- 06Northern StaticAda & the WiresBMI
- 07LinenSoleil ParkASCAP
- 08Late BloomTheo MarshGMR
- 09Copper SkyThe FairweathersBMI
- 10Common GroundNina OkaforASCAP
- 11Blue HourMarlow & FinchBMI
- 12Wildflower RadioJune AshbyASCAP
Licensing directly vs SoundMachine
Typical annual cost for one small location.
- ASCAP from ~$390
- BMI from $250
- SESAC rate not published
- GMR rate not published
SoundMachine includes: All four US PROs for background music, plus stations, scheduling, messaging and integrations.
Plus a commercial music service and hardware, which direct licences don't include.
What could an unlicensed playlist cost?
US statutory damages for copyright infringement range from $750 to $150,000 per song, depending on whether the infringement is found to be willful.
9,277× the cost of a year of SoundMachine Business, from $323.40.
What the licences don't cover
SoundMachine's US and Canadian licences cover background music played through SoundMachine. These uses need separate licences:
- Live bands and performers
- DJs
- Karaoke
- Venues charging a cover or entry fee
- Other sources: radio, TV, CDs, MP3 players
Not sure about your venue? Ask our support team. They can point you to a music rights specialist.
Is an ASCAP licence enough on its own?
Usually not. ASCAP covers a large catalogue, but businesses typically need coverage from BMI, SESAC and GMR too, because each represents different songwriters.
How much does an ASCAP licence cost?
Direct annual fees start around $390, depending on business type, size and how music is used.
Can I import my Spotify playlists?
Yes. With Business Premium and above, imported tracks are matched to SoundMachine's licensed catalogue, so you can play them in your business right away.
More licensing guides
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