Music Licensing FAQ
What am I actually purchasing?
You are purchasing a non-exclusive synchronization license that grants you the legal right to use one or more of my original music tracks in your visual or multimedia projects, including film, video, advertising, YouTube, podcasts, apps, and more.
…Can I use the music in commercial projects?
Yes! The license covers both personal and commercial use, including monetized content and client work.
…What does “non-exclusive” mean?
“Non-exclusive” means others may also license the same track. You’re not buying exclusive ownership — just the rights to use it within the permitted terms.
…Do I need to credit the composer?
Yes. Attribution is required when feasible. Use this credit format:
“[Song Title]”
Written and Composed by John Earl Pape
Published by The Mediatunes Project (IPI 348243557, ASCAP)
….Can I re-sell or re-license the track?
No. You cannot resell, sub-license, or redistribute the music as a standalone product or part of another music library.
…Are there any usage restrictions?
You may not use the music in defamatory, pornographic, or hate-based content. All usage must comply with applicable laws and licensing terms.
…How do I receive the files?
After purchase, you will receive a downloadable ZIP file containing the licensed music track(s) in WAV and MP3 format, along with a PDF license certificate and metadata.
…Do you offer custom licenses or exclusive rights?
Yes. If you need an exclusive license, custom usage terms, or a tailor-made composition, please contact me directly.
…Can I use the music on multiple projects?
Yes — as long as all uses fall within the allowed scope of the original license. If your usage expands (e.g., theatrical distribution), a new or extended license may be required.
…What if a content platform (like YouTube) flags the music?
This can happen automatically. Just provide your license certificate to the platform to resolve any claims. You have the legal right to use the music under the agreement.
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Glossary of Terms – Synchronization (Sync) Licensing
Attribution – A credit given to the composer and/or publisher of a song, often required as part of a sync license agreement. Typically includes the song title, composer name, and publisher info.
BPM (Beats Per Minute) – A measure of tempo in music, indicating how many beats occur per minute.
Commercial Use – Any usage of music that results in financial gain, including ads, client work, branded content, and monetized videos.
Composer – The individual who creates the original music. In sync licensing, this is typically the person credited for writing the music.
Copyright – The legal right granted to the creator of a work to control its use and distribution. Music has two copyrights: one for the composition (song) and one for the sound recording.
Cue Sheet – A document submitted to a Performing Rights Organization (PRO) listing all music used in a production, along with timing and usage details. Used for tracking performance royalties.
Exclusive License – A license that grants exclusive use of a music track to a single licensee, meaning no one else can license the same track during the license term.
ISRC (International Standard Recording Code) – A unique identifier for a specific sound recording, used for tracking sales, usage, and royalties.
ISWC (International Standard Musical Work Code) – A unique identifier for a musical composition (the song itself), often associated with the composer and publisher.
IPI Number – A unique identifier assigned to songwriters and publishers by Performing Rights Organizations (PROs) to track ownership and royalties.
License Certificate – A document confirming the right to use a piece of music under specific terms, typically issued after purchase.
Licensee – The person or organization that purchases the license to use a music track.
Licensor – The rights holder who grants permission to use a music track (usually the composer or publisher).
Metadata – Embedded or external information about a music file, such as title, composer, ISRC, ISWC, duration, BPM, and genre.
Monetization – The process of earning revenue from content (e.g., ads on YouTube), which may require special licensing rights for the music used.
Non-Exclusive License – A license that allows the music to be used by multiple licensees. Most standard sync licenses are non-exclusive.
Performance Rights Organization (PRO) – An agency (e.g., ASCAP, BMI, SESAC) that collects and distributes public performance royalties to composers and publishers.
Publisher – The entity that manages the rights and royalties of a musical composition. May also license the song on behalf of the composer.
Royalties – Payments made to rights holders (e.g., composers, publishers) when their music is played or licensed.
Synchronization License (Sync License) – A legal agreement that allows music to be synced with visual media, such as film, TV, video, or games.
Territory – The geographic area where the license is valid (e.g., worldwide, US only).
Term – The length of time a license is valid. Sync licenses are often perpetual, meaning they never expire.