Do I need PPL if I play radio, TV or streaming music?

Usually, yes. Playing recorded music for staff or customers is generally a public use, whether it comes from a radio, television, digital device or commercial streaming service. For most business premises, the PPL side is handled through TheMusicLicence from PPL PRS.

You must also check the streaming service's commercial terms and the separate rights in the musical work. A personal subscription is not automatically a business licence.

See the official PPL licensing information and PPL PRS streaming guidance.

You do not need a separate PPL 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 PPL'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 PPL 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 PPL licensing questions.