Music Licensing and Rights for Creators

Description

Music is a powerful creative product—but to protect and profit from it, creators must understand their rights and the licensing landscape. This course demystifies the legal and business aspects of music rights, providing essential knowledge for musicians, producers, filmmakers, podcasters, and content creators. You’ll begin by learning about music copyright—what it protects, how to register it, and how ownership works between compositions and recordings. The course then dives into the different types of music licenses including synchronization (sync) for film and video, mechanical licenses for physical and digital reproduction, and public performance rights. Learners will explore how to secure or issue licenses, work with music supervisors, and negotiate licensing fees. Key players in the music rights ecosystem are discussed—performance rights organizations (PROs) like ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC, music publishers, and licensing agencies. You’ll also study split sheets, work-for-hire agreements, and how to avoid common legal pitfalls. Real-world case studies highlight both successful licensing deals and costly rights violations. Whether you’re creating original music or using existing tracks, this course empowers you to manage your rights effectively, get paid fairly, and avoid legal risks in the content economy.