As a library owner, we often get questions about music licensing for client work, especially regarding who should hold the license when music is used in content created for clients. The challenge is that many want a simple answer that fits every situation. We say upfront that there is no single answer that fits all cases. Each library has its own licensing terms, and although the principles are often similar, the finer details and allowances can vary. If you want the short version, it depends entirely on the library you use.
Why Licensing Terms Matter
Licensing details aren’t always straightforward or easy to find, so you may need to look closely to understand what’s covered. We’ve heard of clients on subscription plans who were later flagged for copyright breaches and faced unexpected fees, despite believing they were covered. In one case, the library’s terms included a limit on the number of employees the client company could have—a condition the video producer was unaware of and couldn’t have known, which meant the chosen plan was unsuitable. Always read the terms thoroughly and clarify any points that seem unclear.
The rest of this article outlines some of the core principles and reflects the types of permissions we offer in our licenses.
Licensing Music on Behalf of Clients: How It Works
Many creators license music on behalf of their clients. This means:
- You (the video producer or agency) purchase the license and have the right to use the music in the specific video or project you’re creating.
- You provide your client with the final video containing the music.
Important: In this scenario, you are the music license holder—not your client.
If your client wants to use the same track in other projects or videos that they’re creating, they will need to purchase their own license.
What If the Client Licenses the Music Directly?
If the client purchases the music license directly:
- The client becomes the license holder and can instruct you (or any editor) to use the music in their projects.
- You (the editor or producer) may only use the music within the specific projects covered by the client’s licenses — not for your own work or other projects.
Why Licenses Are Non-Transferable
Licenses are generally non-transferable. This means:
- If you license music for a project and the work is later handed to another agency, editor, or the client, those parties cannot use the music without obtaining their own license.
- Each user must hold their own license for their intended use.
- You cannot transfer the licensed music or rights to another company or individual.
Understanding the Chain of Permission
Your music library may allow you to license music on behalf of your clients as long as there is a clear “chain of permission“:
- You license the music → use it in your client’s video → provide final video to client.
- If questions or issues arise about the licensed music, the client comes back to you (the license holder), who then liaises with the library or rights holder.
This ensures accountability and clarity about who is responsible for the license.
Common Scenarios and Who Holds the License
| Scenario | License Holder | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Editor or agency licenses music and delivers final video to client | Editor or agency | The editor/agency holds license, client receives final video only |
| Client licenses music directly and instructs editor to use it | Client | Client holds license, editor’s use limited to client’s project |
| Project handed from one agency/editor to another | New agency/editor | New user must obtain their own license |
| Client wants to use music in additional projects | Client | Client must license separately for each new project |
Tips to Stay Compliant and Avoid Confusion
- Always check your license terms carefully—libraries differ.
- If you license music on behalf of a client, keep detailed records linking licenses to projects.
- Clients must purchase their own licenses for any new uses beyond what you licensed. They don’t receive a copy of the music—only the final video containing the music.
- Don’t share raw music files without licenses covering each user.
- Use libraries that clearly explain license terms and make it easy for clients to purchase their own licenses if needed.
- Choose libraries that offer accessible help and support.
In Summary
Licensing music for client work isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. Understanding who holds the license—and the limits of that license—is essential. Whether you or your client holds the license, make sure everyone knows:
- The license covers specific projects only
- Licenses are generally non-transferable
- Additional uses may require new licenses
- You’re responsible for questions if you licensed music on the client’s behalf
This clarity protects your projects and your clients—and keeps music rights owners happy.
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