Yes. Almost all music requires permission for commercial or public use, including use in films, advertisements, social media, YouTube videos, websites, and branded content.
If music is used without proper licensing, it may result in takedowns, copyright claims, or legal action.

No. Giving credit does not replace a license.
Copyright law requires permission from the rights holders, regardless of whether the artist is credited. Without a license, credit alone does not make the use legal.

No. Royalty-free does not mean free.
Royalty-free music typically involves a one-time fee that allows use under specific terms. A license is still required, and restrictions may apply depending on the platform, audience size, or type of use.

Yes, but music rights still apply regardless of length.
Using even a few seconds of a song requires proper licensing, including synchronization rights and, where applicable, master recording rights.

Using music without permission can result in:

• Content takedowns or muting

• Copyright strikes or demonetization

• Legal claims or financial penalties

• Platform restrictions or account suspension

Proper licensing protects both your project and your distribution channels.

Music clearance for a famous song usually takes around two weeks.

This timeframe typically includes:

• Identifying all rights holders (publisher(s) and master owner)

• Submitting formal license requests

• Negotiating usage terms

• Receiving written approvals

In some cases, clearance may be faster or slower depending on:

• The number of rights holders involved

• The complexity of the usage (territory, term, media)

• Response times from labels and publishers

Starting the clearance process early is strongly recommended, especially for advertising, film, or campaign deadlines.

Playup Music licenses and clears music for:

• Advertising and brand campaigns

• Film and television productions

• Streaming and online video

• Social media and digital platforms

• Corporate and branded content

Yes. We clear and license:

• Well-known, charting, and legacy songs

• Independent artists and catalogs

• Custom music and re-records when required

Yes. That is a core part of our service.
We guide clients through the licensing and clearance process, identify required rights, and secure the appropriate licenses for their specific use.

Playup Music was established in 2000 and has been licensing music for clients for well over two decades.
Our experience spans advertising, film, television, and digital media across global markets.

Playup Music has offices in:

• New York City, USA

• Melbourne, Australia

We work with clients and rights holders worldwide.

Getting started is simple.

If you know the details of your project and the song that you wish to license use our Clearance Quote Form.

Or if you would like to discuss a project with us first use our Contact Form