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Music Licensing

Do I need a license to use music in a commercial filmed in Georgia?

Yes, you typically need two licenses: a Synchronization (Sync) License from the publisher/composer for the composition, and a Master Use License from the record label for the specific recording. Using music without these leads to copyright infringement.

How does music licensing work for streaming apps launched in Georgia?

You must obtain licenses for all catalogs you intend to stream. This involves complex negotiations with major labels, aggregators, and local collecting societies to clear both mechanical and public performance rights.

Can I play Spotify in my coffee shop legally?

No, standard streaming accounts are for private, personal use only. For a business, you need a Public Performance License from the Georgian Copyright Association (GcA) to play background music legally.

What is a "Master Use License"?

It is the permission to use a specific recorded version of a song (the master track). This is separate from the rights to the song's composition (lyrics and melody), and obtaining one does not automatically grant the other.

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Music Licensing is one of the most complex and specialized areas of intellectual property law, regulating the commercial use of musical works. Any business that uses music—be it a restaurant with background music, an ad agency, a film studio, or a streaming platform—is obliged to obtain the appropriate license. A musical work often involves two independent sets of rights: copyright in the composition (lyrics and melody) and related rights in the sound recording (the specific master track). The licensing process involves clearing these rights and obtaining permissions from various owners (composer, performer, label, publisher). In Georgia, this sector is actively regulated, and illegal use leads to high fines. This service helps musicians monetize their work and businesses operate legally.

What Does Music Licensing Service Cover?

Specialists ensure obtaining and granting licenses for all types of usage:

  • Synchronization (Sync) License: The right to use music in visual media (film, commercials, YouTube videos, video games).
  • Public Performance License: Permission to play music in public places (cafes, shops, concerts).
  • Mechanical License: The right to reproduce and distribute music (e.g., producing CDs, recording a cover).
  • Master Use License: The right to use a specific sound recording, usually owned by a record label.
  • Relations with Collecting Societies: Negotiating tariffs with the Georgian Copyright Association (GcA).
  • Production Music Licensing: Defining terms for using stock music libraries.

Real-World Scenarios Where You Need This Service

Music licensing is necessary in the following cases:

  • Ad Production: A brand wants to use a famous hit in a TV commercial. Two licenses are needed: Sync (from the author/publisher) and Master (from the label).
  • Opening a Restaurant: You want to play background music for guests. You need an agreement with the association to pay royalties.
  • Film Soundtrack: A director wants to use a specific song in a movie scene.
  • Recording a Cover: A singer wants to record a new version of someone else's song and upload it to Spotify. They need a mechanical license.
  • Creating a Streaming Service: You are building a Georgian music app and need to license catalogs.

Georgian Legal Framework and Regulations

The field is regulated by the Law of Georgia on Copyright and Related Rights. The law clearly distinguishes between the rights of the author and the performer/phonogram producer. Georgia operates a system of collective management of economic rights. The Georgian Copyright Association (GcA) is the main organization issuing licenses for public performance and collecting royalties. However, for synchronization (ads, cinema), direct negotiation with the rights holder is often required. Infringement entails civil liability (damages), as well as administrative and criminal liability.

Service Process Step-by-Step

Music licensing is a multi-stage process:

  1. Rights Identification: Determining who owns the rights (who is the composer, lyricist, which label owns the recording).
  2. Sending a Request: Contacting the rights holder and proposing usage terms (budget, media, duration).
  3. Negotiation: Agreeing on price and terms. For popular songs, this can be difficult.
  4. Signing the Agreement: Executing the Sync or Master Use license.
  5. Payment and Cue Sheets: Paying the fee and submitting information about used music to broadcasters.

Why Choose Legal.ge?

Music law is full of nuances, ignorance of which can harm a business. Legal.ge gives you access to lawyers who have direct connections with labels, publishers, and associations. With our help, you can use music legally and quickly for your projects, without unnecessary bureaucracy and risks.

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Specialists for this service

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