Press FAQs

What does PRS for Music do?

PRS for Music is owned by its membership and works on their behalf ensuring that creators get paid whenever their music is played, performed or reproduced.  This could be when our members’ music is used on TV and radio, performed live, sold as a CD or streamlined on the web, both in the UK and globally through our affiliate network.

Set up in 1914 PRS for Music has been working on behalf of creators for almost 100 years, championing the importance of music they create, and the copyright that enables that enables them to earn.

What’s the difference between PRS for Music and PPL?

PRS for Music collects the licence fee on behalf of songwriters, composers and publishers. PPL collects the license fee on behalf of the performers and record companies. Together the two companies ensure that creators and companies who invest in creators are fairly remunerated.

PRS for Music is working closely with PPL to identify areas we could offer joint licences and already have pilot schemes in operation.

What constitutes a public performance?

Any performance of copyright music, whether live or recorded, that takes place outside the home is regarded as a public performance and will usually require a licence from PRS for Music.  Licences are usually issued to the owner of the premises where the music is being performed.

Why do you need to licence music?

Composers and publishers only get paid when their works are performed, so collecting royalties when their music is performed ensures they get paid for the work they do.

How do you keep track of where music is being played?

PRS for Music has licensed 63 major digital music services to date as well as over 300,000 UK businesses.  In addition over 80% of television and radio stations are licensed on a pay-per play basis meaning PRS for Music has exact records of every piece of music played.

Is this copyright system unique to the UK?

No, organisations like PRS for Music exist in nearly every country in the world.  PRS for Music works closely with these organisations ensuring UK creators are rewarded when their music is used overseas, and international creators are rewarded when their music is used in the UK.