Why license a cover version instead of the original recording?

Innovation, creativity and costs are just some of reasons why cover versions have become so popular. While cover versions are not original, having a different creative interpretation on a well known track is an inventive and imaginative way in bringing freshness to a project. There is also that subliminal familiarity of a track we already know and love. In many instances a cover version is cost effective and easier to license than the original recording.

What is a Master Licence for the Master Recording?

A Master License (also known as a master sync license) is a music license granted to the licensee by the owner or controller (licensor) of the master recording. Commercial terms will be agreed between the licensor and licensee, allowing the licensee to synchronise the master recording within a form of visual media (a film, commercial, tv show, video game, film trailer etc). Commercial terms will be agreed between the licensor and licensee prior to use.

What is a Synchronisation Licence for the Musical Composition?

A music synchronisation license, or "sync" for short, is a music license granted by the holder of the copyright of a musical composition (licensor), allowing the licensee to synch music within a form of visual media (a film, commercial, tv show, video game, film trailer etc). Commercial terms will be agreed between the licensor and licensee prior to use.

How much does a license cost?

This is dependent on the type of usage/rights clearances required (i.e. the media, term, & territory). Please contact us and one of our licensing consultants will be in touch to discuss your request.

How long does it take to obtain a licence?

This can vary dependent on several factors. Fundamentally commercial terms will have be agreed with the relevant copyright holders prior to use.

Initially the holder(s) of the copyright of a musical composition will need to be contacted and their licence granted. At that point Fully Scored Music (the owner or controller (licensor) of the master recording) can issue their master sync license. On average the licensing process between all parties involved can take a few weeks.

Each licence application is treated on an individual basis.

Licences from owners of both the Copyright Composition and the Cover Master Recording must be obtained in advance of any use (synchronisation, reproduction etc) taking place.