Question 1

Do I need a music license to run karaoke at my venue?

Accepted Answer

Yes. In most countries, playing music commercially (and that's including karaoke) requires a license to cover the public performance of copyrighted songs. The specific licenses you need depend on your country and the format of karaoke you run. Operating without the correct licenses can result in fines or legal action against your business.

Question 2

What is the difference between a music license and a karaoke license?

Accepted Answer

A standard music license (such as those issued by PPL and PRS in the UK, or ASCAP and BMI in the US) covers the public performance of music at your venue. A karaoke-specific license covers the reproduction and display of lyrics and backing tracks, which is a separate right. Most venues need both, and it's important not to assume that a general music license covers karaoke use specifically.

Question 3

Who issues music licenses for karaoke venues?

Accepted Answer

This depends on your country. In the UK, PRS for Music covers songwriting and composition rights, while PPL covers recorded music. In the US, the main performing rights organisations are ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC. In Australia, APRA AMCOS handles performance rights. Most countries have their own equivalent bodies, so it's worth checking with your local performing rights organisation to understand exactly what you need.

Question 4

Does my karaoke software provider cover music licensing?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the provider. Some professional karaoke software platforms like Singa include fully licensed content as part of their subscription, meaning the venue is covered for commercial use. Others do not, leaving the licensing responsibility entirely with the venue. Before choosing a karaoke software provider, always confirm in writing what licensing is and is not included.

Question 5

Is it legal to use YouTube for karaoke at a venue?

Accepted Answer

No. YouTube's terms of service do not permit commercial use of its content, and karaoke tracks found on YouTube are typically unlicensed for public performance in a venue setting. Using YouTube for karaoke at a bar, pub, or entertainment venue exposes your business to copyright infringement claims. Many venue owners do this without realising the legal risk — using a professionally licensed karaoke platform is the only way to ensure you are properly covered.

Question 6

What happens if I run karaoke without the correct licenses?

Accepted Answer

Running karaoke without the correct licenses can result in cease and desist notices, fines, and in some cases legal action from rights holders or performing rights organisations. Enforcement activity has increased in recent years as rights organisations have become more active in monitoring commercial venues. The cost of getting licensed is significantly lower than the cost of being caught without the right coverage.

Question 7

Do I need a separate license for each karaoke room?

Accepted Answer

In most cases your licensing covers the venue as a whole rather than individual rooms, but this can vary depending on the structure of your license and the country you operate in. If you are running multiple karaoke rooms it is worth confirming this specifically with your licensing body or karaoke software provider to make sure you are fully covered.

Do you need a license to run karaoke at your venue?

Music licensing for karaoke is more complicated than most venue owners realise. Here's what you need to know to stay legal and protect your business.

FAQ - Licensing