What are the different types of licenses?

Synchronization

Also called a “Sync License,” you’ll need this type of license to sync music with a video on film or in commercials, as well as social media apps or only exercise classes.

Mechanical

You’ll need a mechanical license to record and distribute a Spirit song on CD or cassette, but also as a digital download through iTunes or Amazon.

Lyric Reprint

When an author or creator includes Spirit lyrics (not the music) in a publication, they utilize a Lyric Reprint license. A separate license is required for the printed music.

DVD

For TV Shows and Movies released on DVD, publishers require a separate DVD license o use the music in that format (compared to the show or movie airing for one showing on TV).

How much does a license cost?

The cost of a license differs between writers and mediums. Visit the licensing page and complete the form to start the process.

Can I submit a song to Spirit for licensing?

We do not accept submissions.

What's the difference between a composition and a sound recording? Do I need to get a license for both?

A Composition is the underlying song itself, consisting of the lyrics and the melody. A Composition is unique and one-of-a-kind. A Sound Recording, or Master, is a captured performance of a composition for which infinite versions can exist. You must license a Master in addition to a Composition if you intend to use a commercially released recording. Note that Masters are typically licensed through third parties such as record labels.

How do I know if Spirit controls 100% of a composition?

Spirit Music Group has built relationships with the performance rights agencies such as ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC, which have public searches for additional research on composition owners.

What if I want to upload a cover of a Spirit composition to my YouTube channel. Do I need a license?

No, simply send us a link to the video, and we will claim and monetize our composition directly. Here is a great resource for Understanding Copyright Claims on YouTube.

How do I obtain a mechanical license?

Fill out the form above, select the MECHANICAL LICENSING tab in License Type, and provide the song or catalog you would like to license. Once you click SUBMIT, the request will be sent to our licensing department for processing and the license agreement will be sent to you via email.

How much does a mechanical license cost?

Royalties are calculated based on the current statutory rate:

For songs 5:00 or less, $0.091 per composition, per unit.
For songs 5:01 and greater, $0.0175 x min (rounded up) per composition, per unit.

(example: A song is 6:07. The statutory rate would be: $0.0175 x 7 = $0.1225)

How do I obtain a synchronization license?

Fill out the licensing form, select the SYNCHRONIZATION LICENSING tab in License Type, and provide the song or catalog you would like to license. Once you click SUBMIT, the request will be sent to our licensing department for processing. One of our licensing agents will contact you with a quote for the use and to discuss and finalize the terms of the license agreement.

How much does a synchronization license cost?

License fees for synchronization uses vary depending on the song, the type of use and other factors. Our licensing agents will provide a customized quote for your specific use.

How do I obtain an arrangement license?

Fill out the licensing form, select the GENERAL COPYRIGHT/SPLIT QUESTIONS OR OTHER tab in License Type, and notate Arrangement License and provide the song or catalog you would like to license. Once you click SUBMIT, the request will be sent to our licensing department for processing and the license agreement will be sent to you via email.

How much does an arrangement license cost?

License fees for arrangements vary depending on the song, the type of arrangement and other factors. Our licensing agents will provide a customized quote for your specific use.

How do I obtain a lyric reprint license?

Fill out the licensing form, select the GENERAL COPYRIGHT/SPLIT QUESTIONS OR OTHER tab in License Type, and notate Lyric Reprint License and provide the song or catalog you would like to license. Once you click SUBMIT, the request will be sent to our licensing department for processing and the license agreement will be sent to you via email.

How much does a lyric reprint license cost?

License fees for lyric reprints vary depending on the song, the type of use and other factors. Our licensing agents will provide a customized quote for your specific use.

How do I obtain permission to use a sample?

Fill out the licensing form, select the SAMPLE REQUESTS tab in License Type, and provide the song or catalog you would like to license. Once you click SUBMIT, the request will be sent to our licensing department for processing. One of our licensing agents will contact you regarding your request and discuss our terms of use.

How do I obtain a merchandise license?

Fill out the licensing form, select the GENERAL COPYRIGHT/SPLIT QUESTIONS OR OTHER tab in License Type, and notate Merchandise License and provide the song or catalog you would like to license. Once you click SUBMIT, the request will be sent to our licensing department for processing. One of our licensing agents will contact you regarding your merchandising request and discuss our terms of use.

How much does a merchandise license cost?

License fees for merchandising vary depending on the song, the type of use and other factors. Our licensing agents will provide a customized quote for your specific use.

How do I obtain a DVD license?

Fill out the licensing form, select the GENERAL COPYRIGHT/SPLIT QUESTIONS OR OTHER tab in License Type, and notate DVD License and provide the song or catalog you would like to license. Once you click SUBMIT, the request will be sent to our licensing department for processing and the license agreement will be sent to you via email.

How much does a DVD license cost?

License fees for DVD’s vary depending on the song, the type of use and other factors. Our licensing agents will provide a customized quote for your specific use.