Articles
What’s the Most Affordable Streaming Service for Business?
Background Music Strategy 10 Minute ReadWhat’s the Most Affordable Streaming Service for Business?by Ryan Santangelo, Ph.D., Co-Founder & CEO, Dynamic MediaChoosing a music streaming service for your business isn’t just about hunting for the lowest price — it’s about making a smart investment. A rock-bottom rate might seem appealing, but the cheapest music streaming service for business can quickly become a headache if it means sparse playlists, questionable licensing, or lackluster...
Why Do Businesses Play Music?
Background music for businesses like malls, restaurants and grocery stores is so ubiquitous today that we sometimes forget this wasn’t always the case. While the earliest form of music for businesses appeared in the 1930s, playing contemporary pop and other commercial music wasn’t popular until the early 1970s. In this article, we answer the question, “Why do businesses play music?” by looking at the past and present of in-store music.
How To Legally Play Music in Your Business
Music licensing laws are a complicated and often confusing topic, especially regarding the legality of playing music within a business. These days, it feels like playing music in public places is almost a necessity to maintain customer satisfaction, leading many business owners to ask, “Do I need a music license?” After all, who wants to eat or shop in complete and total silence?
Luckily, obtaining a license to play music legally in an establishment isn’t too difficult for business owners as long as you know where to look. If you’re a business owner looking to play background music in your shop to enhance the customer experience, keep reading to learn everything you need to know about music licensing laws.
Can I Legally Play the Radio in My Place of Business?
There are certain laws that dictate whether or not you’re allowed to play music for business purposes. Every so often the Performing Rights Organizations (PROs), the societies in charge of collecting and enforcing music licensing laws, will file a lawsuit against a bar, restaurant, or another establishment for playing music in a business without a license. This always begins with a legal letter from one of the four PROs, ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, or GMR, notifying the establishment they are in violation. If you have received one, it’s nothing to take lightly. The letter will rightfully demand the business purchase a license immediately, and oftentimes require back payments, which can easily reach into the five figures. Lawsuits are reserved for major violators, but when they happen, they get the attention of business owners everywhere.