What Music License Do I Need?

Audiodrome   |   Last Updated: July 28th, 2025   |   11 min read   |   Tools

Few want to mess around when it comes to music licensing, especially on commercial projects. One mistake can cost you monetisation, trigger takedowns, or even open the door to legal trouble. The problem? Most creators aren’t sure what license they need in the first place.

There’s a lot of bad advice out there. Some think the “10-second rule” protects them. Others assume “royalty-free” means free-for-all. Even well-meaning users get caught off guard when a platform flags their content or a rights holder sends a claim.

That’s why we built this simple Wizard. It won’t give you legal advice, but it will guide you through five key questions and instantly recommend the license types you’re most likely to need, based on real use cases like YouTube, podcasting, stage shows, and more.

Try it below. It only takes a minute, and it might save you a headache later.

Estimates, not legal advice.

The Wizard gives you a quick recommendation, but what if you want to understand the rules behind it? That’s what this guide is for.

Below, you’ll find a breakdown of why creators often get licensing wrong, how the tool works, and what each license actually covers. We also explore real use cases, cost comparisons, risk factors, and practical steps for getting the rights you need.

If you’re new to licensing or just tired of vague advice, this is a clear, structured resource. It shows you when, why, and how each one applies. Think of it as the part that fills in the gaps after the Wizard gives you your result.

Why Creators Trip Up

One of the most common myths is the so-called “10-second rule” – the idea that short clips don’t require permission. It’s false. No time limit automatically makes a use legal. Another trap is thinking a project is safe just because it’s educational or nonprofit. That doesn’t mean it qualifies for fair use.

YouTube’s Content ID system processes over 9,000 copyright claims every minute. That’s not a typo – every minute. Most of those claims aren’t scams or glitches. They happen because someone used music without the right license, even if the track came from a “free” source.

Part of the confusion comes from the way music rights are split. Every song has two parts: the composition (what’s written) and the recording (what’s heard). You often need a license for each. Downloading a track legally doesn’t always mean you can use it publicly or commercially without further clearance.

How the Wizard Works

This tool asks five quick questions and uses your answers to recommend the licenses you’re most likely to need. Step one asks how you plan to use the music – options range from YouTube videos to podcasts, stage shows, or TV ads. Step two checks whether your project will be shared publicly, which affects performance rights.

Next, you choose the type of track you’re using. That could be a well-known song, royalty-free music, a Creative Commons file, or something you’re unsure about. The fourth step asks whether your project is commercial or monetized. That one is key – money changes the licensing rules.

In the final step, you say what version of the music you’re using: an original studio version, a cover, or a custom edit. For example, choosing Podcast / Public / Royalty-Free / Monetized / Custom Edit might return “Performance License” and “Royalty-Free License” as your match.

License Types Explained

Each music license covers a different set of rights. What you need depends on how the music is used, what kind of track it is, and whether your project is public or monetized. 

Synchronization License (Sync)

A sync license allows you to pair music with visual media like film, YouTube videos, commercials, or slide shows. This permission is needed anytime music is “synchronized” to images.

The rights are usually held by the music publisher or songwriter. Sometimes the publisher acts on behalf of multiple songwriters or estates.

If you’re producing a short film or brand promo, and you want to use a popular song in the background, this is what you need. Skip it, and your video might be blocked, taken down, or even trigger a cease-and-desist letter.

Master License

A master license permits you to use the actual sound recording – the version of the track you hear, not just the notes or lyrics.

This license typically comes from the record label or the person who owns the master rights, which could be the artist themselves in indie setups.

Let’s say you want to use Beyoncé’s studio recording of “Halo” in your web series. Even if you already have a sync license for the song, you’ll still need this to use the specific version. Without it, expect a copyright claim or automated Content ID block.

Mechanical License

A mechanical license allows you to reproduce or distribute a musical composition, like when you record a cover song or press physical copies.

The rights are usually held by the publisher or handled through agencies like the Harry Fox Agency or Music Reports, depending on the region.

If you’re planning to release a cover song on Spotify or Apple Music, even if it’s just you and an acoustic guitar, you’ll need a mechanical license. Skip this, and you may get taken down or be forced to share royalties retroactively.

Compulsory License

This is a specific type of mechanical license available in the U.S. under Section 115 of the Copyright Act. It allows you to cover a published song without needing direct permission, as long as you follow strict rules.

The rights still go through the publisher, but you must report usage, pay statutory royalties, and stick to the original composition without major changes.

It’s often used for digital covers and distribution on platforms like Spotify. If you skip this and just upload your version of a hit song, the rights holder can demand a takedown or even file an infringement claim.

Performance License

This license covers public playback and live events, public broadcasts, or streams. It ensures the songwriters get paid when their music is performed publicly.

These rights are managed by performance rights organizations (PROs) like ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, PRS, or GEMA, depending on the country.

If you play background music in a café, stream a concert, or use music in a monetized podcast, this is the one to have. Skip it, and venues, platforms, or you personally may face hefty fines or blocked content.

Transcription License

A transcription license allows the use of music in audio-only formats, like radio shows, podcasts, and audiobooks.

These rights are often negotiated with both the publisher (for the song) and label (for the recording), especially when distributing widely or commercially.

For example, if you’re using a well-known track as your podcast intro, you’d need this license. Without it, your podcast could be removed from Spotify or Apple, and monetization might be suspended.

Theatrical License

This license permits the use of a musical work within a staged performance, such as a play, musical, or revue. It grants permission to use the song in a live, scripted context.

Publishers or show licensors typically handle these rights. Sometimes, Broadway rights are controlled separately through specialized licensing agencies.

If a school stages “Matilda” and includes songs from the original soundtrack, a theatrical license is required. Skipping it can lead to shutdowns or cease-and-desist actions from the original creators.

Grand Rights License

Grand rights apply to using music in dramatic or narrative performances, where the song supports a storyline. They are not handled by PROs and must be negotiated directly.

The rights usually belong to the publisher or authorized musical theater agent. These licenses are often expensive and negotiated on a case-by-case basis.

If you include a famous ballad in a dance piece with costumes and plot, you need grand rights. Skip it, and the rights holders may take legal action against the production.

Print License

This license allows you to reproduce sheet music, lyrics, or lead sheets in print or digitally.

Publishers or their sub-licensing agents usually manage these rights. They’re often granted for educational, religious, or publishing use.

If you’re including lyrics in a songbook or displaying them on your website, a print license is required. Without it, the publisher can issue takedown requests or pursue claims for unauthorized use.

Streaming License

A streaming license allows the use of music on platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, or YouTube Music. It typically applies to audio-only content.

This license is complex. It may involve mechanical and performance rights, depending on the platform and region.

Say you release your original song on Spotify, but it contains a sample from another track. You’ll need a streaming license for the sampled part. If you skip it, the track may be muted, pulled, or monetized by someone else.

Broadcast License

This license covers the right to use music in radio, television, and digital broadcasts, including livestreams that resemble traditional TV or radio.

The license may be obtained via PROs for general blanket use or negotiated directly for specific works.

If you’re running a regional TV ad with a recognizable tune or producing a radio segment with music beds, a broadcast license is necessary. Skipping this one can trigger legal claims from rights holders, especially if it airs in a commercial context.

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons licenses allow the use of music under specific terms set by the artist. Some permit commercial use, others don’t.

The rights remain with the creator, but they grant usage under public terms. You still need to check the specific license version (e.g., CC BY, CC BY-NC).

If you grab a Creative Commons track and credit the artist properly, you might be covered, but only if the license allows commercial use. Misuse or missing attribution can still lead to removal or disputes.

Royalty-Free License

This license gives you permission to use music without paying recurring royalties, usually after a one-time purchase or free download under clear terms.

Rights are held by the platform or composer offering the track, like Audiodrome or other licensing sites.

If you buy a royalty-free track for your YouTube video, and the license includes commercial use, you’re covered. But misuse, like editing vocals into the track and reselling it, can violate the terms and lead to takedowns or blocked monetization.

Five Scenarios

These are typical situations where creators often get licensing wrong.

Indie YouTube Doc

A short-form documentary is uploaded to YouTube and submitted to small film festivals. The background music is a royalty-free instrumental. The video is monetized with ads and the music plays under visuals with no voiceover.

Wizard selection: Video / Public / Royalty-Free / Monetized / Custom Edit.
Result: Synchronization License and Royalty-Free License.

Branded Corporate Podcast

A company podcast uses a paid music intro from a royalty-free site. The episodes are publicly available on Spotify and other platforms, and the podcast supports branded marketing goals.

Wizard selection: Podcast / Public / Royalty-Free / Monetized / Custom Edit.
Result: Transcription License, Performance License, and Royalty-Free License.

Community Theatre Musical

A local theatre group stages a musical and includes well-known songs in the performance. Tickets are sold, and the show is not streamed or recorded.

Wizard selection: Stage Show / Public / Well-Known / Monetized / Original Recording.
Result: Grand Rights License, Theatrical License, and Master License.

TikTok Cover Song Release

A cover of a popular track is posted on TikTok and uploaded in full to Spotify. The release is monetized, and the cover stays close to the original melody and lyrics.

Wizard selection: Cover Song / Public / Not Sure / Monetized / Cover.
Result: Mechanical License and Compulsory License.

Regional TV Commercial

A short ad uses a royalty-free track and airs on local television. The same ad is reused on social media. The music was properly licensed for commercial broadcast.

Wizard selection: Broadcast / Public / Royalty-Free / Monetized / Custom Edit.
Result: Broadcast License and Royalty-Free License.

Cost, Risk & Compliance Matrix

Traditional sync or master rights for well-known tracks can cost anywhere from a few hundred to hundreds of thousands of dollars, especially if you’re dealing with global campaigns, broadcast rights, or high-profile artists. These fees reflect not just the popularity of the song but also the legal complexity behind clearing every layer of rights.

On the other end, royalty-free libraries and direct indie licensing offer simpler, cheaper options. For a small flat fee, or sometimes for free, you can legally use music in commercial projects, provided you follow the terms. These options work best for podcasts, YouTube videos, apps, and local campaigns.

Want a personalised ball‑park figure? Try the calculator below.

How to Obtain Each Licence

Getting the right license starts with knowing who to contact. For well-known songs, you’ll usually need to reach out to both the publisher (for the composition) and the label (for the recording). Many rights are managed by third parties or agencies, so don’t expect a quick “yes” from a single email.

If you need a performance license, contact your local PRO, like ASCAP, BMI, PRS, or GEMA. For cover songs or mechanical rights, you can often use services like Songfile, Easy Song, or the MLC. These platforms let you license legally without direct negotiation. Broadcast and theatrical licenses, however, often require one-on-one clearance from the publisher.

For royalty-free or stock music, just make sure you purchase or download from a reputable library with clear terms. Keep a copy of the license file, invoice, or receipt in case of future claims. If you’re working with an indie artist, ask for written permission – even a simple PDF is better than a verbal agreement.

Here’s a template you can use when reaching out:

Saving Money

You don’t need a famous track to make your project work. What you need is the right permission at the right price. That could mean using royalty-free music, cutting a deal with an indie composer, or choosing a track that’s already in the public domain. Each option has trade-offs, but all can save you money if you know what to watch for.

Audiodrome was built around that idea. Every track is cleared for commercial use from day one. No PRO conflicts. No backend surprises. If your budget is tight but your standards aren’t, there’s no reason to license blindly or take risks.

Royalty-Free Platforms

Royalty-free music gives you usage rights with a one-time license, often under $100. You don’t need to track future royalties or file reports. It’s fast, simple, and good for commercial work.

The downside is oversaturation – popular tracks show up everywhere, which weakens branding. Quality and license terms vary, so always check usage rights carefully.

Indie Deals

Working directly with independent artists or composers can offer custom music at fair rates. You can license tracks others haven’t used, and the terms are usually flexible.

However, not all artists understand licensing law. You may get a verbal agreement but lack a proper contract, which puts you at risk if their distributor adds Content ID later.

Public Domain

Music in the public domain is free to use with no permission needed. This includes old classical works or expired copyrights. There’s no cost and no collection agency to worry about.

But the recording matters. Even if a composition is public domain, a new performance of it may not be. Always check if the version you’re using is truly free.

AI-Generated Music

AI tools can generate original music quickly and affordably. Many platforms offer royalty-free licenses by default, and some allow full commercial use with no attribution.

The risk is legal uncertainty. If the AI was trained on copyrighted music without consent, some platforms may face future challenges. For now, use AI tracks with clear licensing only.

DMCA & Takedowns

Even if you think your use is legal, platforms like YouTube or Facebook can still hit you with a takedown. Under the DMCA, platforms remove content first and sort things out later. If someone files a claim, it’s your job to prove you had the right license. That’s why keeping proper records matters just as much as choosing the right track.

Have a license on file. Save receipts and download copies of the terms of use. If you’re using royalty-free music, make sure the license covers your specific platform and usage. Some libraries offer Content ID allowlisting – use it if available. This can prevent automated claims before they happen.

Need help spotting risk? Try the DMCA Risk Checker to test your setup and avoid common red flags.

That’s it! You now have the basics to stay DMCA-safe and choose the right license with confidence. Thanks for reading, hope it saved you some stress.

Author: Dragan Plushkovski

Hey there! I’m the founder of Audiodrome and a longtime creative in the digital product space. I’ve worked on over 60 product launches, managed video and music production workflows, and now help creators find the perfect royalty-free tracks for their content.

I understand how the law works behind the content we create, because I’ve spent years dealing with it firsthand. Alongside building Audiodrome, I’ve worked as a licensed forensic accountant and run a trademark protection agency, so I know what it takes to stay compliant, protect your content, and avoid the traps that catch so many creators off guard.

You can also find my work at mojbrend.mk (trademark protection, Macedonian) and plushkovski.com (forensic accounting, Macedonian). Read More

Audiodrome was created by professionals with deep roots in video marketing, product launches, and music production. After years of dealing with confusing licenses, inconsistent music quality, and copyright issues, we set out to build a platform that creators could actually trust.

Every piece of content we publish is based on real-world experience, industry insights, and a commitment to helping creators make smart, confident decisions about music licensing.

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