13 Reusing Recorded Music

Reuse of Recorded Music (Audio)

Reuse of audio recordings falls under two categories: small rights and grand rights. If you are only reusing the audio without any additional elements, then you will be negotiating small rights via a mechanical license. If you are using the audio and adding any theatrical elements (choreography, costumes, sets, dialog, etc.) to the use, then you must negotiate grand rights. 

To obtain a mechanical license, try searching the Music Licensing Collective to identify the rights holder. 

If you are having difficulties locating the rights holder, consult with the music librarian. 

Reuse of Recorded Music (Video)

Using recorded music in a video requires a synchronization license.  

To obtain a synchronization license, try searching the Music Licensing Collective to identify the rights holder.  Use the information found there to contact the rights holder (via their website, an email address, phone call, etc.) 

If your recording does not appear in MCL, use the publication info to track down the rights holder. If you are having difficulties locating the rights holder, consult with the music librarian.