Services

Consulting

 

The world of music is ever growing and evolving, and we’re not just talking about sound trends. With the consistent introduction of varying revenue streams and distribution channels, the opportunity for profit grows for songwriters but a veritable minefield of issues arise when it comes to licensing— gaining access to that music.

Why Work With MLS?

Businesses may contact ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, GMR, music publishers, record companies, or other rights holders directly. In many situations, that may be an appropriate place to begin.

Those organizations, however, are responsible for representing the interests and repertoires of their respective rights holders. They are not engaged to independently evaluate whether their proposed classification, licensing structure, terms, or pricing appropriately reflects your particular enterprise.

MLS provides that independent review. We examine how music is actually being used, the nature and scope of the rights involved, the terms being proposed, and the options available to you. We then help you determine an informed and practical course of action.We take pride in clearly explaining and navigating the often foggy landscape of performing rights and licensing. We help our clients negotiate licensing agreements that are fair and reasonable.

Group Presentations

 

Access to permission to engage in the lawful public performance of music in any business context can be confusing and costly. We present a clear road map into the complex world of music licensing with regularly scheduled (USA) presentations to local hospitality industry groups and chambers of commerce. Each presentation can be tailored to the individual needs of your members with the completion of a short questionnaire and survey.

Newsletter

 

Subscribe today to the Music Licensing Solutions twice monthly Newsletter. Go to Contact Us Page. Send email request.

Copyright Certifications

 

If you are preparing litigation and need the laser-focused eye of a trained professional to identify the current rights holders, we can search the databases at the Copyright Office at the Library of Congress and obtain correct and reliable certification of any copyrighted musical work.

Legal referrals

 

What MLS Does

Music Licensing Solutions advises music users on licensing obligations, potential exposure, proposed agreements, fee structures, negotiation options, and rights-clearance needs.

Depending on the engagement, our work may include:

  • Reviewing how and where music is used within your business

  • Identifying the rights and licensing organizations that may be involved

  • Evaluating proposed license terms, classifications, and pricing

  • Explaining the rights holder’s position and the music user’s available options

  • Assisting with communications and negotiations

  • Supporting the clearance of specific music rights

  • Providing written findings and recommended next steps

What MLS Does Not Do

MLS is not a performing rights organization and does not issue, resell, or broker blanket music licenses. We do not represent that a business can disregard a legitimate copyright obligation. When legal representation or a formal legal opinion is required, we may recommend that the client consult qualified copyright counsel.

Demystifying performing rights licensing is our core mission. But if the legal horse is “out of the barn” for you and you need professional representation, we are happy to refer you to our skilled intellectual property law attorneys. Remember, copyright infringement cases are heard in federal court so the same lawyer you use for state business filings may not be equipped to practice before a federal judge. Our lawyers are more than prepared to guide you through litigation.

Playlists

 

In a world of fractional licensing, wouldn’t it be great to have access to a list of 100% ASCAP, or 100% BMI songs so you only need to license with them? We can help.

Negotiation

 

Authorize MLS Inc to negotiate your music licenses.

What You Receive

The outcome of each MLS engagement is defined by the agreed scope of work. Depending on your needs, deliverables may include:

  • A clear assessment of your music use and potential licensing exposure

  • Identification of the rights, organizations, or rights holders involved

  • A review of proposed license terms, conditions, classifications, and pricing

  • A written explanation of available options and recommended next steps

  • Assistance negotiating an appropriate license or rights clearance

  • Documentation of communications, findings, and completed actions

We complete agreed assignments promptly, communicate clearly throughout the engagement, and provide the client with a practical basis for making an informed licensing decision.