Non Exclusive Licence Agreement Music Template for England and Wales

A Non Exclusive Licence Agreement Music allows you to legally use copyrighted musical works while the rights holder retains ownership and can license the same music to other parties. Under England and Wales law, this agreement ensures you comply with copyright legislation while gaining specific rights to use musical content for defined purposes, territories, and time periods.

When do you need this document?

You need this agreement when licensing music for commercial use in film, television, advertising campaigns, or digital content creation. Media production companies regularly use these agreements to secure soundtrack rights for multiple projects simultaneously. Digital platforms and streaming services require these licences to legally distribute music content to their users. Event organisers and venues also need these agreements when using recorded music for commercial events or permanent installations. Unlike exclusive licensing, this arrangement allows the music rights holder to generate revenue from multiple licensees using the same musical work.

Key legal considerations

The grant of licence clause must clearly define the scope of permitted uses, including whether you can modify, synchronise, or distribute the musical work. Payment terms should specify licence fees, royalty rates, and collection mechanisms, particularly regarding interactions with collection societies like PRS for Music. Territory restrictions are crucial as they determine geographical boundaries for your usage rights. The agreement must include comprehensive warranties ensuring the licensor owns or controls the rights being licensed and that no third-party claims exist. Termination clauses should outline circumstances for ending the agreement and any continuing obligations post-termination.

Legal requirements in England and Wales

Under the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988, musical works receive automatic copyright protection, and any commercial use requires proper licensing. The agreement must comply with moral rights provisions, ensuring proper attribution to composers and performers. If licensing involves consumers rather than businesses, the Consumer Rights Act 2015 may apply, requiring fair contract terms. The Contracts (Rights of Third Parties) Act 1999 affects how collection societies and music publishers can enforce licensing terms. Competition law under the Competition Act 1998 may restrict certain licensing practices, particularly regarding market dominance or anti-competitive arrangements. Ensure compliance with the Intellectual Property Rights Enforcement Directive 2004 for adequate protection against infringement.