Legal Question in Entertainment Law in California
Ascap charges
Do licensing companies like ASCAP and BMI have a right to randomly charge restaurants for playing music from radio and TV?
3 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Ascap charges
It's not random, and, yes.
Re: Ascap charges
Actually, performing rights organizations have the right to charge all public facilities that play music (there are certain exemptions such as very small venues and radio play). The only reason it may seem to be random is that they do not have enough staff to monitor every facility. Facilities are legally required to obtain a license from ASCAP/BMI/SESAC to play music.
Re: Ascap charges
It's not random. and, YES. ASCAP and BMI are charged by their songwriter members with collecting royalties for public performances of music, such as in bars, restaurants, stores, etc.
Related Questions & Answers
Looking for something else?
10,200 active attorneys ready to answer your legal questions today.
Featured Attorneys
Earn additional revenue and grow your business.
