01
What the letter is.
Performing-rights organizations (PROs) license the public performance of songs on behalf of songwriters and publishers. ASCAP and BMI represent most US compositions; SESAC and GMR represent smaller catalogues, including well-known writers. Each licenses only its own catalogue, so a venue can need more than one.
A first letter usually offers a license and asks about your venue. Follow-ups can include visits to document what is played. In October 2026, ASCAP-affiliated publishers filed a group of infringement suits against hotels, restaurants and venues in several states after repeated contact.
Statutory damages under US law run from $750 to $30,000 per song, up to $150,000 if infringement is found wilful, plus possible attorneys' fees.
02
What to do this week.
- Note the deadline and who sent it. Check it is a genuine PRO.
- List every music use: background music source, live music, DJs, karaoke, TVs, events, social videos.
- Gather what you already pay: music service contract, any PRO invoices.
- Check your music service terms: many include PRO licensing for the recorded background music they supply, but not for live music, DJs or karaoke.
- Check the small-business exemption if you only play radio or TV broadcasts (see the rules).
- Reply on time, with facts. If the letter mentions a lawsuit or comes from a lawyer, talk to a US attorney first.
03
What to avoid.
- Ignoring it. Repeated non-response is what precedes many lawsuits.
- Assuming your music service covers live performances. It usually does not.
- Assuming one PRO license covers everything.
- Switching to a personal Spotify account. Personal plans are not business licenses.