What is ASCAP?

ASCAP is the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers. It is a US performing rights organisation that licenses public performances of musical works for songwriters, composers and music publishers.

For a business, a public performance can include music played for customers or staff, live music, radio, television or certain digital uses. ASCAP licenses the composition and lyrics, not automatically the sound recording.

Use the official ASCAP licensing portal to identify the licence category for a US business.

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.