The licensing of karaokes, how does it work?

Managing a karaoke is not just to connect a microphone and let the customers sing with a head kill!

Did you know that each song broadcast in your establishment is protected by copyright?

No license? You risk savory fines, even the closure of your karaoke.

But good news: while respecting the regulations, you support artists and composers by contributing to their remuneration and thus protect your business.

It's win-win!

Source: https://fr.bam-karaokebox.com/paris/etoile/

What are the organizations that manage musical licenses?

Depending on your country, several organizations are responsible for the management of musical rights. Here are some essential actors:

• SACEM (France) : manages the rights of authors, composers and publishers in France and offers specific licenses for leisure establishments.
• PRS for music (United Kingdom) : provides licenses for British operators wishing to broadcast music legally.
• GEMA (Germany) : Ensures the protection of the rights of music creators in Germany.
• SIAE (Italy) : Responsible for the management of musical rights in Italy.
• BMI and ASCAP (United States) : two main organizations that cover copyright in American territory.

These organizations offer suitable solutions according to the type of establishment, its capacity and the frequency of musical events.

How to get a license?

Do not panic, it's simpler than it seems! Here are the steps to follow:

1. Define your needs: how many evenings per week? What capacity? What type of music?
2. Register with the suitable organization: a form and some information on your activity, and voila.
3. Pay your royalty: the price depends on several criteria, but it remains affordable compared to the sanctions incurred.
4. Stay up to date: remember to renew your license and inform the organization of any change.

Practical advice to stay in compliance

• Display your license in a visible manner in your establishment to reassure your customers.
• Hold on a precise register of the music used to facilitate any controls .
• Regularly consult the updates of management organizations to remain informed of any regulatory changes.

Complying with legal obligations in terms of musical licenses is essential to manage your karaoke with confidence.

Don't wait to put yourself in good standing!

Visual credits: Bam Karaoke Box