Well, yes and no.

YES: If you’re using the tracks to score a program intended for broadcast TV (think ABC), cable TV (think Discovery) or any of the major streaming platforms (think HBO) that have a blanket with ASCAP/BMI/SESAC, then yes. Same goes for podcasts. We ask only that you make sure the usage is properly recorded on the cue sheets and submitted to those organizations.

NO: If you’re using the tracks for non-broadcast commercial purposes (for example, what they used to call industrial films, non-broadcast marketing spots, in-house training videos, etc.), this requires a subscription or a license. Basically, if you’re getting paid either directly by a client or your employer, we get paid for the music. Fair is fair, right? Our subscriptions or license fees are quite reasonable (meaning “low”) and vary according to the scope of your project.

YES and NO: If you’re using the music on social media platforms. This is a complicated legal issue… Disputes about what’s considered “fair use” under the U.S. Copyright Act have paid the bills for a lot of lawyers over the years.* For us, it’s not so complicated. If you’re getting paid or “monetizing” the content, you should pay something to use our music. Fair is fair, right?

*If you’ve got nothing better to do, Google “the dancing baby case.” It’s low-key funny.

WE DON’T CARE: If you’re using the music for strictly personal, non-commercial purposes, like scoring your kid’s birthday party, sure, go ahead… we don’t care. But considering this is a True Crime library, you might want to consider getting help.

IF YOU’RE NOT SURE: Not really sure where your project fits in here? Just ask us. We’re easy.