The global music industry has undergone a revolution — shifting from physical sales to digital downloads to streaming dominance. But while access has become easier, the business of getting paid has never been more complex. Behind every stream lies a labyrinth of licenses, rights clearances, and royalty distribution systems that most creators, managers, and even lawyers struggle to fully understand.
Digital Music Licensing and Streaming Royalties is an ultra-practical course designed to illuminate how music is licensed, tracked, and monetized in the digital age. Participants will learn how mechanical, performance, synchronization, and master use rights interact across streaming services; how revenue flows from Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, and TikTok to the creators; and how to navigate the legal frameworks governing global digital music use.
This course blends real-world industry practice with professional legal rigor — empowering artists, producers, labels, and attorneys to master the economics and law of digital music and protect their financial future.
Course Objectives
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
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Understand the legal foundations of music licensing in the digital and streaming ecosystems.
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Identify and distinguish between the various types of music rights and corresponding licenses.
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Comprehend how royalties are generated, calculated, and distributed across digital platforms.
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Navigate mechanical, performance, and neighboring rights collection through U.S. and global agencies.
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Draft and negotiate fair licensing and distribution agreements for streaming and digital use.
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Evaluate data reporting, royalty transparency, and auditing practices.
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Strategize how to maximize income streams and protect ownership in the streaming era.
