Music Synchronization License for the United States

Music Synchronization License Template for United States

A Music Synchronization License is a legal agreement under U.S. copyright law that grants permission to synchronize a musical composition with visual media. This document outlines the terms under which the licensee can use the music, including scope of use, territory, duration, and compensation. It addresses requirements under federal copyright law, particularly the Copyright Act and Music Modernization Act, and includes provisions for both composition and potentially master recording rights.

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What is a Music Synchronization License?

The Music Synchronization License has become increasingly important in today's media-rich environment. This agreement, governed by U.S. federal law, is essential when combining music with visual content across various platforms. The license specifies crucial elements including usage rights, territories, duration, and compensation, while ensuring compliance with copyright law and industry standards. It's particularly vital given the complex nature of music rights and the need to properly secure permissions for both composition and potentially master recording use.

What sections should be included in a Music Synchronization License?

1. Parties: Identifies the licensor (rights holder) and licensee (party seeking to use the music)

2. Background: Establishes ownership of the musical work and purpose of the license

3. Definitions: Defines key terms including 'Musical Work', 'Synchronization', 'Territory', 'Term'

4. Grant of Rights: Specifies the synchronization rights being licensed and their scope

5. License Fee: Details the payment terms and schedule

6. Term and Territory: Specifies duration of license and geographical scope

7. Credits and Attribution: Requirements for crediting composers/artists

What sections are optional to include in a Music Synchronization License?

1. Master Recording License: Additional terms when licensing existing recording rather than just composition

2. Editing Rights: Terms regarding rights to edit or modify the music

3. Exclusivity Provisions: Terms regarding exclusive use of the music

4. International Distribution: Additional terms for international use and distribution rights

What schedules should be included in a Music Synchronization License?

1. Schedule A - Musical Work Details: Complete details of the musical work including composers, publishers, and ownership splits

2. Schedule B - Project Details: Details of the audiovisual project where music will be used

3. Schedule C - Payment Schedule: Detailed breakdown of payment terms and installments if applicable

4. Schedule D - Technical Specifications: Technical requirements for music delivery and format specifications

Authors

Alex Denne

Head of Growth (Open Source Law) @ Genie AI | 3 x UCL-Certified in Contract Law & Drafting | 4+ Years Managing 1M+ Legal Documents | Serial Founder & Legal AI Author

Jurisdiction

United States

Publisher

Genie AI

Document Type

Music Agreement

Sector

IP

Cost

Free to use
Relevant legal definitions
Clauses
Industries

U.S. Copyright Act: Primary federal legislation (17 U.S.C.) governing copyright law in the United States, establishing basic rights and protections for copyright holders

Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA): Federal law addressing digital copyright issues and online content protection, relevant for digital distribution and streaming rights

Music Modernization Act (MMA): 2018 legislation modernizing copyright law for the digital age, including updates to licensing and royalty rules

Copyright Act Section 106: Specific section defining exclusive rights of copyright owners, including right to reproduce, distribute, and create derivative works

Copyright Act Section 114: Defines scope of exclusive rights in sound recordings, crucial for sync licensing of recorded music

Copyright Act Section 115: Covers mechanical license provisions and statutory licensing requirements

State Contract Laws: Various state-specific laws governing contract formation, enforcement, and interpretation

AFM Regulations: American Federation of Musicians union regulations affecting use of musician performances and recordings

SAG-AFTRA Agreements: Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists agreements affecting performer rights

PRO Compliance: Requirements and regulations from performing rights organizations (ASCAP, BMI, SESAC) for music licensing

Berne Convention: International copyright treaty providing protection for works across member countries

Universal Copyright Convention: International copyright agreement providing alternative to Berne Convention with different requirements

WIPO Copyright Treaty: International treaty addressing copyright protection in the digital environment

Teams

Employer, Employee, Start Date, Job Title, Department, Location, Probationary Period, Notice Period, Salary, Overtime, Vacation Pay, Statutory Holidays, Benefits, Bonus, Expenses, Working Hours, Rest Breaks,  Leaves of Absence, Confidentiality, Intellectual Property, Non-Solicitation, Non-Competition, Code of Conduct, Termination,  Severance Pay, Governing Law, Entire Agreemen

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