Music & Licensing

The public performance of music is a complicated topic. Each of the big licensing agencies (BMG, ASCAP) has their own set of rules and guidelines for the music that's within their catalogs. While a hotel or other venue might have a liscense for public performances, those licenses generally only cover events where the hotel is is hosting the event or music played out by the pool or other entertainment venue. A third party organizer like a convention services company or large company will likely be required to have their own liscense for their event.

In 2020, several political campaigns made the national news with regards to their use of music by various artists. Political entities using music, especially candidates should take exercise due care to ensure they are legally allowed to use any music.

ASCAP put out a great guide for Political Campaigns. Check it out here https://www.ascap.com/about/legislation/campaign-music-use.aspx