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If you play music in your company — as background music for staff or customers — you are making that music public and require licenses for it. You then pay for copyright (via Buma/Stemra) as well as neighboring rights (via Sena). Without a license, you risk a claim.
Playing music is making it public
Background music can positively influence the atmosphere, productivity, and even purchasing behavior. However, playing music in a space accessible to others—your store, hospitality venue, office, or waiting area—is legally considered making that music public. And for this, you need permission from the rights holders.
Two types of rights: copyright and neighboring rights
Music is subject to two types of rights. The copyrights of composers and lyricists are managed by Buma/Stemra. The neighboring rights of performing artists and producers are managed by Sena. In principle, you have to deal with both when playing music.
Arranging a license
You arrange the use via a license, for which you pay a fee. The amount depends on factors such as the type of business, the surface area, and the way in which you use the music. In practice, the arrangement is often bundled, so that you cover both copyright and neighboring rights at once.
Does this also apply to me?
Whether you have to pay depends on whether it involves public performance. Music playing only for yourself in an enclosed space is different from music for clients or a group of employees. If in doubt, it is wise to have this assessed so that you do not face an unexpected claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to pay for background music in my business?
If you make music public for customers or staff, in principle yes: you need licenses for copyright and neighboring rights.
Which organizations manage those rights?
Buma/Stemra for copyright and Sena for neighboring rights. The arrangements are often bundled.
Does this also apply to music for staff only?
That depends on whether disclosure is involved. In the case of a group of employees, this may already be the case. If in doubt, have it assessed.
Is your music usage legally in order?
Our legal experts advise on music licenses and copyright. View our copyrightteam, have a license agreement drafted, or schedule a free consultation.
