Meaning of ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC in New Restaurant

ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC are organizations that play crucial roles in the music industry, particularly in the context of public performances, such as those that occur in https://paragonrestaurants.com/. Here’s what each of them stands for and their relevance to your new restaurant:

1. ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers)

  • Role: ASCAP is a performance rights organization that collects licensing fees on behalf of songwriters, composers, and music publishers. They ensure that these creators are compensated for the public performance of their music.
  • Relevance to Restaurants: If you play music in your restaurant—whether live or recorded—you need an ASCAP license to legally use their members’ music. This helps protect you from copyright infringement claims.

2. BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.)

  • Role: Similar to ASCAP, BMI is another performance rights organization that represents songwriters and publishers. They also collect licensing fees and distribute royalties to their members.
  • Relevance to Restaurants: To play BMI’s catalog of music legally in your restaurant, you must obtain a BMI license. This allows you to use a wide variety of popular songs without facing legal repercussions.

3. SESAC (Society of European Stage Authors and Composers)

  • Role: SESAC is a smaller performance rights organization compared to ASCAP and BMI but also collects royalties for music performances. SESAC represents a range of songwriters and offers unique benefits to its members.
  • Relevance to Restaurants: Like ASCAP and BMI, you will need a SESAC license if you wish to play their catalog of music in your restaurant.

Why These Licenses Matter for Your Restaurant

  • Legal Compliance: Obtaining licenses from these organizations ensures that your restaurant complies with copyright laws, avoiding potential fines and legal issues.
  • Access to Music: Licensing provides access to a vast catalog of music, allowing you to create a desirable atmosphere for your guests.
  • Support for Artists: By paying for these licenses, you contribute to the livelihood of songwriters and musicians, fostering a positive relationship with the music community.

In summary, securing licenses from ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC is essential for any restaurant that plays music, ensuring legal compliance and supporting the artists behind the music you enjoy