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Copyright Licensing for Mobile DJs
Some DJs have been confused in the past about carrying membership in performing arts organizations like ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC because the rules differ depending on the performance type. The way their licensing is structured, it is actually the responsibility of the venue (bar, nightclub, etc.) to maintain membership and pay royalties. DJs playing for the public (so not for private events like weddings) then provide a list to the venue of the music that was played ? that?s it. If a DJ plays for the public outside of a licensed establishment, then they are responsible for paying the royalties. This type of copyright licensing has absolutely nothing to do with weddings and private events. Just to be sure, I went straight to the source and asked these organizations directly. Here?s what they said:
?ASCAP does not license DJs. It is the venue, establishment, or promoter of an event that is responsible for public performance licensing, not the performer. Private events such as weddings, etc. are exempt from licensing.?
? Bryn Caryl, ASCAP
?BMI licenses the ?public performance? of music? events such as private parties and weddings are not required to have a license.?
? Jaqui Garlan, BMI
?Royalty fees are not collected for private performances.?
? David Derryberry, SESAC
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