How does ASCAP calculate the licence fee?

ASCAP does not use one price for every business. The licence form distinguishes between uses such as live bands, DJs or karaoke, recorded or streamed music, radio or television, jukeboxes and other business uses. Premises or occupancy information can also be relevant.

Give ASCAP a complete and accurate description of your music use. A quote for background music may not cover live performances, online use or a different premises.

Start with the official ASCAP licensing portal for the current licence options and quote.

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.