Music Licensing for Performers: What You Need to Know
Whether you're a pole dancer, aerialist, burlesque performer, or movement artist, music is a crucial part of your act. It sets the tone, supports your story, and creates an emotional connection with the audience. But before you upload that performance video or take the stage at a public event, there’s one important thing to consider: music licensing.
If you're using someone else’s music in your act, you need to understand the basics of licensing—because just crediting the artist isn’t always enough.
Why Music Licensing Matters
When you use a song in a performance, especially in a public or recorded setting, you’re technically reproducing and distributing someone else's intellectual property. Without permission, this can lead to your content being removed, demonetized, or worse—legal action.
Performers often ask:
Can I use any music for a live show?
What about Instagram or YouTube?
Do I need permission if I bought the song on iTunes?
The short answer: it depends on how and where you use the music.
When You Usually Don’t Need a License
✅ Live Performances at Venues That Have Blanket Licenses
Most performance venues pay for blanket licenses from performing rights organizations (PROs) like ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC. This means performers using popular songs on-site are generally covered.
✅ Private Use or Practice
If you’re just practicing at home or rehearsing in a private setting, you’re typically safe.
When You Do Need a License or Permission
🚫 Posting Videos Online (YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, etc.)
Even if your video is a personal post, using copyrighted music without proper rights can get it muted, blocked, or taken down. YouTube and other platforms have automated systems to detect and flag unlicensed use.
🚫 Monetizing Performances with Music
If you're making money off your performance (ticket sales, YouTube ads, or subscriptions), using copyrighted music without a license can put you at risk.
🚫 Performing at Events Without Licensing
Smaller venues, independent shows, or unconventional spaces may not carry music licensing. In these cases, the performer or producer may be liable for rights violations.
Options for Music Licensing as a Performer
🎵 Use Royalty-Free Music
Many platforms offer royalty-free or licensable music for a small fee or even for free (with credit). Some examples:
Artlist
Epidemic Sound
PremiumBeat
Bensound
AudioJungle
🎵 Purchase Direct Licenses from Independent Artists
Some indie artists offer performance licenses directly through platforms like Bandcamp or their personal websites. This can be a great way to support other creatives.
🎵 Collaborate with Musicians
Commissioning original music or collaborating with small musicians can give you a unique sound and full rights to your music.
🎵 Get Proper Licensing
If you're set on using a specific copyrighted song, you can try to license it through PROs or music libraries. This is often expensive and time-consuming, but it's the safest way to legally use popular music.
Tips for Staying Safe as a Performer
Always double-check licensing rules for any music you use, especially for online content.
Ask event producers if the venue has proper PRO licenses.
Avoid using trending music in performances you plan to record and post.
When in doubt, use royalty-free, commissioned, or properly licensed music.
Final Thoughts
Music enhances performance—but using it responsibly protects your art, your platform, and your reputation. Taking the time to understand music licensing isn’t just about avoiding trouble—it’s about respecting the work of other artists and ensuring your performance has the longevity it deserves.
Stay creative, stay inspired, and stay legal.