Songwriters, composers, and publishers generally authorise APRA AMCOS, or similar overseas organisations, to administer their rights in New Zealand and Australia. Our licences offer you a straightforward way to use a fantastic range of global music in your business or organisation. Without them, you would need to request permission and a licence from each music creator for every work you wanted to use.
We've created a series of guides explaining our different music licences in plain English. You can view or print each guide.
Looking for a particular song or work? Search the APRA AMCOS registered song and work catalogue.
TIP: Read the summary on ‘How to search for a song or work’ before searching.
Why do I need an APRA AMCOS licence?
Firstly, it shows that your business or organisation respects and supports songwriters and composers - creators of New Zealand culture.
Secondly, if you use music that is protected by copyright within your business, Commonwealth legislation requires permission (a licence) from the creators of that music.
And last but not least - you benefit by using music: keeping your patrons and staff entertained, engaged and creating a better atmosphere.
Composers and music publishers generally authorise APRA AMCOS to administer their rights in Australia. Without these licences you would, for example, need to deal directly with the composers, songwriters and music publishers who own the rights in the music you wish to use.
You can get more information from the New Zealand Intellectual Property Office.
Do I need a licence to record a cover?
There are a few things you should know about releasing a cover.
Permission
Good news, you don't need permission to release a cover as long as it has already been released by the original copyright owner.
Royalties
Releasing a cover either on a physical product, like a CD or vinyl, or online, requires payment of royalties. If you're represented by a label, they will likely already be covered by a licensing agreement. Check with them to see if you're covered.
Licensing for physical products, like CD or vinyl
For physical releases you need something called an audio manufacture licence, which is available through APRA AMCOS.
Licensing for online release
For online platforms that are already covered by a licensing agreement, like Spotify, you don't need a licence. However, if you plan to release it through an unlicensed platform like your own website, you'll need a licence.
We've got specialised departments to look after our members, licence enquiries, international affiliates, and more. Get in touch or send us a message using our department direct form.