Permission to record a song that someone else wrote (audio only).

Whenever you record a song that someone else wrote and distribute it on CD or Digital Download, you need a Mechanical License. This pays a royalty to the composer of the song for the right to use their song on your new audio recording.

The most common use of a Mechanical License is to record yourself playing a song that someone else wrote. This is known as a cover song. For example, if you or your band recorded yourselves playing the Beatles song, "Here Comes the Sun", you would need to get a Mechanical License.

A Mechanical License is also required whenever you obtain a Master License to use a recording that someone else made. For example, if you put the original Beatles studio recording, featuring Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, and George Harrison on your CD, you would also need a Mechanical License to pay a royalty to George Harrison for the right to use his composition (song).

Mechanical Licenses are required no matter how small a portion of the song you use. Medleys require licensing of each song part separately. Thanks to the Compulsory Mechanical Licensing Law, we can help you license any song in any quantity and the copyright holder cannot reject the license. Mechanical Licenses should be secured before distribution. Reputable manufacturers require Proof of Licensing before they press your CDs. Reputable online stores require Proof of Licensing before they will publish your album.

We specialize in Mechanical Licenses. We can help you get a Mechanical License quickly and easily in 1-2 business days. You can talk to a real person and we handle everything for you.