Music is more than just background noise in Rhode Island’s restaurants, bars, hotels, and venues. It is part of the experience we offer to set the mood, create a welcoming atmosphere, and keep patrons coming back. However, as important as music is to guest experiences, so too is the need to stay compliant with U.S. copyright law, which requires public venues to have music licenses. This requirement may feel like just another box to check, but the copyright law was last generally revised in 1976 which the origins off goes back to the Copyright Clause listed in the United States Constitution (Article I, Section 8, Clause 8).
When our businesses play music, whether it is from a live band, a DJ, or even a simple playlist, we are using someone’s intellectual property. Creators depend on licensing fees, collected by performing rights organizations (PROs) like ASCAP and BMI, to earn a living. These organizations work on behalf of the songwriters, composers, and publishers who often do not have other income streams from touring or merchandise sales. By licensing music, we are supporting these creators and ensuring that they are paid for their work. I liken it to a chef who has a proprietary recipe – if we just handed that recipe out to everyone, then fewer customers would be willing to pay for something they can now make on their own.
The process of licensing music for our industry has thankfully been made relatively simple by music licensing organizations that offer access to over 20 million songs, covering just about any musical need we might have, from playlists and background music to more interactive options like karaoke. And, let us face it, karaoke is a huge draw for patrons across Rhode Island. Having the right license in place makes it easy to host these events without worrying about copyright compliance, which can otherwise lead to hefty fines.
Now, there are some exemptions in copyright law for smaller establishments. Those exemptions are better discussed with the pros from the music licensing organizations. For most of us, purchasing a license is the straightforward, secure route. Licenses generally are reasonable in cost based on your usage. A reasonable price when weighed against the significant fines that can come with operating without one. Besides, these fees go straight to supporting the artists who provide the music that helps drive business in our establishments.
It is still confusing, but this is where the RI Hospitality Association can assist. In partnership with BMI, we work to help our members understand and navigate music licensing requirements. Please visit our YouTube channel and watch Copyright & Music Licensing May 2023 recording of our free webinar, https://youtu.be/KCItQL6ZfY8?si=ZMPOs7IcZGdc0sPq
RIHA is committed to supporting local businesses in the licensing process so that our industry can stay compliant without missing a beat. Whether you host a live band every weekend or simply set the mood with background music, we are here to guide you through your options and help you choose what is right for your venue.
The importance of licensing is about more than legality, it is about respect for the artists who bring life to our spaces. We are proud to foster a culture of compliance that also celebrates creativity. As you consider your music needs, know that licensing is not just an expense; it is an investment in the future of music that elevates the hospitality experience.
Our industry has always valued relationships, whether with our patrons, our teams, or the artists we play and welcome at our venues. By licensing music properly, we are building one more meaningful connection—one that sustains the music community and enhances our own. Let us continue to create spaces where both our businesses and the artists behind our soundtracks can thrive together.
