Do I need a licence to use music on social media?

Generally, a social media user does not require an individual public performance or mechanical rights licence to share videos or other content containing music on social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook or YouTube. This type of use is covered by the licences in place with these platforms.

However, using music in a commercial context — for example as a brand, business or influencer — does require an additional synchronisation (“sync”) licence. The existing platform licences do not include synchronisation rights, meaning that music may not be combined with commercial content without permission. Without the required sync licence, this use constitutes copyright infringement.

If you need a sync licence or would like more information, click here.