Does ASCAP cover radio, TV and streaming music?

An ASCAP licence can cover the public performance of ASCAP musical works when music is played through radio, television or a streaming service in a US business. The source does not automatically make the use private.

The licence is limited to the rights ASCAP administers. A sound recording may involve separate rights, and a service's own terms must allow commercial playback. Music put into a video or streamed from your own website can need additional permissions.

Use the ASCAP licensing portal for the relevant licence type and check the service contract as well.

You do not need a separate ASCAP licence if you only use MelloJam

If your business plays only MelloJam music through the MelloJam player, you are not using music from the repertoire covered by ASCAP's licensing route. MelloJam's original catalogue and the commercial playback rights it controls are included in your MelloJam plan, so you do not need a separate licence from ASCAP for the MelloJam playback itself.

A separate non-waivable venue charge can still apply where local law imposes one. Radio, television, Spotify, other recordings, live music, DJs, events, copying and online use are outside the MelloJam plan.

Back to all ASCAP licensing questions.