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Unisono

When should I apply for my licence?

We ask you to apply for your licence at least 5 days before the start of your event.

As far as the copyright royalties are concerned, this period is shorter than before. This is because we had to align a number of conditions of Sabam and the Fair Remuneration when Unisono was founded, in order to simplify things as much as possible for you.

What is the difference between Sabam, PlayRight and SIMIM?

Sabam represents authors, composers and publishers. These are so-called 'creative' artists because they create music, films, television programmes, theatre plays, works of art, books, etc. They are entitled to a fee when their works are used in public. This fee is called copyright royalties.

PlayRight represents actors and musicians. These are so-called ‘performing’ artists. Finally, SIMIM represents music producers. These are the people or companies that finance the original music recordings. Performers and music producers are also entitled to a fee when their (music) recording is played in public. For example, if you play recorded music during an event or in the background in a bar, restaurant, hairdressing salon, etc. This fee is called neighbouring rights royalties. They are invoiced under the banner of the Fair Remuneration. Until 2019, this fee was invoiced by Honebel (for the hospitality sector) and Outsourcing Partners (for the other sectors and for temporary activities), on behalf of PlayRight and SIMIM.

From 1 January 2020, you can take care of both copyright and neighbouring rights royalties through Unisono. Sabam will then distribute its share of the fee to the authors, composers and publishers, whereas PlayRight and SIMIM will distribute their share to the performing artists and music producers respectively. In this way you contribute to the remuneration of authors, composers, publishers, performing artists and music producers.

I only play royalty-free music. Do I have to pay authors’ rights royalties or Fair Remuneration?
This question deserves a balanced answer. If you play music in public, two types of rights are generally owed:
  • authors’ rights (for authors, composers and publishers), managed by Sabam.
  • neighbouring rights (for artists and producers), also called ‘Fair Remuneration’, managed by PlayRight and SIMIM.

If you only play music from a completely royalty-free catalogue, you do not pay any authors’ rights royalties. The authors of that music have waived their rights.

Please note: we discovered that protected works were sometimes included in so-called ‘royalty-free’ catalogues in the past. Unisono can always check this. If we find that protected works are indeed being played, you will have to pay authors’ rights royalties.

You must however always pay Fair Remuneration because this is a ‘legal licence’. This means that artists and producers cannot waive these rights; they are always entitled to this compensation.

In that sense, we can say that completely ‘royalty-free’ music does not exist and is a rather misleading marketing term.

If in doubt, you can always contact us. Our staff will be happy to help you.

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Unisono

When should I apply for my licence?

We ask you to apply for your licence at least 5 days before the start of your event.

As far as the copyright royalties are concerned, this period is shorter than before. This is because we had to align a number of conditions of Sabam and the Fair Remuneration when Unisono was founded, in order to simplify things as much as possible for you.

What is the difference between Sabam, PlayRight and SIMIM?

Sabam represents authors, composers and publishers. These are so-called 'creative' artists because they create music, films, television programmes, theatre plays, works of art, books, etc. They are entitled to a fee when their works are used in public. This fee is called copyright royalties.

PlayRight represents actors and musicians. These are so-called ‘performing’ artists. Finally, SIMIM represents music producers. These are the people or companies that finance the original music recordings. Performers and music producers are also entitled to a fee when their (music) recording is played in public. For example, if you play recorded music during an event or in the background in a bar, restaurant, hairdressing salon, etc. This fee is called neighbouring rights royalties. They are invoiced under the banner of the Fair Remuneration. Until 2019, this fee was invoiced by Honebel (for the hospitality sector) and Outsourcing Partners (for the other sectors and for temporary activities), on behalf of PlayRight and SIMIM.

From 1 January 2020, you can take care of both copyright and neighbouring rights royalties through Unisono. Sabam will then distribute its share of the fee to the authors, composers and publishers, whereas PlayRight and SIMIM will distribute their share to the performing artists and music producers respectively. In this way you contribute to the remuneration of authors, composers, publishers, performing artists and music producers.

I only play royalty-free music. Do I have to pay authors’ rights royalties or Fair Remuneration?
This question deserves a balanced answer. If you play music in public, two types of rights are generally owed:
  • authors’ rights (for authors, composers and publishers), managed by Sabam.
  • neighbouring rights (for artists and producers), also called ‘Fair Remuneration’, managed by PlayRight and SIMIM.

If you only play music from a completely royalty-free catalogue, you do not pay any authors’ rights royalties. The authors of that music have waived their rights.

Please note: we discovered that protected works were sometimes included in so-called ‘royalty-free’ catalogues in the past. Unisono can always check this. If we find that protected works are indeed being played, you will have to pay authors’ rights royalties.

You must however always pay Fair Remuneration because this is a ‘legal licence’. This means that artists and producers cannot waive these rights; they are always entitled to this compensation.

In that sense, we can say that completely ‘royalty-free’ music does not exist and is a rather misleading marketing term.

If in doubt, you can always contact us. Our staff will be happy to help you.

What happens if I don’t apply for a licence or apply too late?

You have to apply for a licence at least 5 days before the start of the event or the daily use of music.
If you apply for your licence too late, the amount due will increase by 15% (with a minimum of € 45).
If you don’t apply for a licence at all or your application is incomplete, the amount due will increase by 15% (with a minimum of € 100).
If you only have to pay copyright royalties or the Fair Remuneration, then the above minimum amounts will be halved.

 

What is the difference between copyright royalties and the Fair Remuneration?

Copyright royalties are a fee for authors, composers and publishers. They are entitled to this fee when their works are used in public. For example, if you use or show works by composers, writers, filmmakers,… at your event or in your business.

The Fair Remuneration, i.e. the banner under which neighbouring rights royalties are invoiced, is a fee for music producers, artists and musicians. They are entitled to this fee when their (music) recording is played in public. For example, if you play recorded music during an event or in the background in a bar, restaurant, hairdressing salon, shop, etc.

When can I pay for my licence online?

Online payment is possible if we can already calculate the amount due at the time of your application.
Specifically, these conditions must be met:


Daily use

  • The start date of the licence is in the current calendar year.

Please note: Only the first invoice can be paid online. The following invoices must be paid by bank transfer.


Event

  • The event takes place in the current calendar year.
  • All the necessary parameters for calculating the fees (e.g. entrance fee, artistic budget, revenues, etc.) are known.

 

On the other hand, online payment is not possible for an application for:
  • a DJ licence;
  • a classical concert;
  • theatre or comedy;
  • music on a sound carrier;
  • an online work;
  • an audiovisual production.
Do I get a refund if I stop my activities?

If you permanently cease your activities in the first six months of the calendar year, you are entitled to a refund of 50% of the amount paid for that year (both royalties and Fair Remuneration). Be sure to apply for this refund via our contact form. If you cease your activities in the second half of the calendar year, no refund is possible.

If you stop using music during the year, the rights remain due until the end of the calendar year and no refund is possible.

 

 

My invoice amount is higher than the year before. Why is this?
It is important to note that we have not increased our rates.

However, they are indexed annually on 1 January according to the consumer price index. In 2025 the indexation amounts to 3,16%. Concretely, if you paid 100 euros in 2024 to play music in your business, then this amount will increase to 103,16 euros in 2025 (100 x 1,0316).

Example:
You run a 100 m² bar and play music in the background.
In 2024, you paid 534,63 euros (excl. VAT) in authors’ rights and 213,05 euros (excl. VAT) in Fair Remuneration.
In 2025, this will be 551,52 euros and 219,78 euros respectively.
 
Why do I have to pay when I use music?

You only pay for the public use of music. Using music within the family circle obviously does not require a licence.

Keep in mind that music is an investment that pays for itself. Music influences how we feel and behave. By using music during your event or in your business, you create a pleasant atmosphere that attracts customers, influences their buying behaviour and increases the well-being of your staff.

Authors, composers, publishers, artists and producers invest time, energy and money in making music and other creative works. It is their livelihood. It is therefore only natural that they should be compensated for their work. That’s where copyright royalties and the Fair Remuneration come into play. Thanks to your contribution, these people have the financial leeway to continue to create works.

I paid for my licence directly online, but I still receive an invoice. Why is this?
There are two possibilities:
  1. You receive an invoice stating ‘This invoice has already been paid’
This document is purely administrative and serves as proof of payment. You do not have to pay this invoice.
  1. You receive (in addition to the paid invoice) a supplementary invoice for your event/business
Due to a wrong choice of rate or the declaration of incorrect parameters, you paid too little online. To correct this, we created a supplementary invoice for the amount you have paid too little.
You must still pay the supplementary invoice using the payment instructions on this invoice.
 
The address on my original invoice is different from the address on my reminder. Why is this?

Your original invoice always states the correspondence address that you specified during your licence application. You receive this invoice by e-mail, Billtobox, Peppol or by post, depending on your choice.

The reminder however is always sent by post to the main address (e.g. the registered office). That's why the address on your original invoice may differ from the address on your reminder.

Do you want to change your invoice details or preferences? You can do this quickly and easily online:

  • Log in to MyUnisono.
  • Go to ‘Mijn profiel’ / ‘Mon Profil'
  • Change your details or preferences and click on ‘Gegevens bewaren’ / ‘Sauvegarder’.
I have already paid for my CDs or online music subscription. Why do I still have to pay when I play this music in my business?

If you buy a CD or subscribe to a music service, you are obviously allowed to play this music in private whenever and as often as you want. The fee for authors, performing artists and music producers is included in the price you pay. However, if you play this music in your business or during your event (i.e. in public, in a commercial setting), then you have to pay an extra fee to Unisono.

Keep in mind that music is an investment that pays for itself. Music influences how we feel and behave. By using music during your event or in your business, you create a pleasant atmosphere that attracts customers, influences their buying behaviour and increases the well-being of your staff.

What music sources can I use in my business?

Music is available everywhere. Just think of radio, TV, music on audio and video media such as CDs or DVDs, digital music via downloads and streaming, etc.

The private use of these (legal) music sources (i.e. within the family) presents no problems.

But this doesn't mean that you can just use these music sources in your company.

An overview of the music sources that may or may not be used publicly in a company.

The use of the following permitted music programmes and service does not change the fact that you still need authorisation to share this music in public. More information on this authorisation can be found in the menu under 'Daily use'.

  • Radio & TV

Most radio stations and TV channels have a copyright licence that allows them to legally broadcast their (music) programmes. That is definitely the case for the Belgian stations and channels, but also for those who broadcast from abroad. If you have any doubts, however, as to whether a particular radio or TV station has a valid licence, we will be happy to help you via our contact form or by telephone (+32 (0)2 / 286 82 11).

  • Web radio

Various traditional radio stations and web radios offer the possibility of listening to music online via their website or to part of it via podcasts. This also no problem.

If you have any doubts, however, as to whether or not a particular web radio station is legal, we will be happy to help you via our contact form or by telephone (+32 (0)2 / 286 82 11).

  • Music services for professional purposes

Music services are available specifically for catering establishments and the retail trade which offer music via an online web application. These providers have concluded an agreement with SABAM which gives them the copyright authorisation to supply music to your company.

A list of available providers with an agreement for professional use can be found here.

  • Audio media and downloads: original versus copy

If you have a private music collection consisting of audio media (such as vinyl, CDs or DVDs) or legal downloads, then you are permitted to use this music in your company as long as they are originals and not copies. The annual licence that you as manager pay for the public use definitely cover i.a. the use of original audio media.

The copying of original audio media and downloads, on the other hand, is permitted only for strictly private use. This is stated accordingly on a CD or in the general terms and conditions when buying a download. The public use of copies is therefore not covered by the above-mentioned annual licence.

The original download or podcast is the first recording of this download: That is on the computer or smartphone with which the purchase or download is performed. This means that the making of a copy on another computer, external hard disk, smartphone, mp3 player, USB stick, CD-R, etc. is permitted only for strictly private use.

  • What is not allowed?

There are various streaming services that offer music legally via subscription formulas, such as Spotify, Deezer, YouTube, Aupeo, Google Play Guvera, Microsoft Xbox Music, Mixcloud, Napster, Qobuz, Soundcloud and Tidal.

However, these services are only valid for strictly private use (B2C). As a result, places accessible to the public, such as shops, restaurants, cafés, cinemas or business premises may not use the streaming services mentioned above.

The existing agreements between Sabam and these providers limit the copyright permission to personal (private) and non-commercial use by the user of the streaming service. This restriction can be found in the general terms and conditions of use of the various streaming services.

If you do use them, you will have to pay a compensation fee of € 75 (+ 6% VAT), plus report and travel costs of € 125 (+ 21% VAT). Moreover, the payment of this fee does not permit the continued commercial use of this B2C streaming service. In the event of continued use, the amount of the fee will even double.

I recently received an invoice/visit on behalf of OP/Intrum or Honebel. Is this legally valid?
Until 31/12/2019, OP/Intrum and Honebel were responsible for invoicing the Fair Remuneration on behalf of SIMIM and PlayRight. On 1 January 2020, this task was officially taken over by Unisono.

However, OP/Intrum and Honebel still remained responsible for handling the outstanding cases dating from before 2020. This collaboration was definitively terminated on 30/06/2022.
 
Did you receive an invoice or inspection on behalf of OP/Intrum or Honebel after this date? If so, it is most likely a forgery or fraud.

Any doubt? Do not hesitate to contact SIMIM or Playright directly. They will be happy to help you.
 

 

What happens if I forget to pay my invoice?

You will first receive two reminders. If you still don’t pay after these reminders, we will hand over your file to a bailiff. If that doesn’t work either, we will take legal action. Any legal costs will of course be borne by you.

Do you have a question or a problem? Or would you like to apply for an instalment plan? Then please contact us. This is a better option than doing nothing.

What is Unisono?

Unisono is the single platform that Sabam, PlayRight and SIMIM have set up together. From 1 January 2020, this platform allows you to take care of your use of music, theatre works, audiovisual works, etc. quickly and easily in one central location and with one single licence and payment.  

How do I change my invoice details?
You can do this quickly and easily online:
  • Log in to MyUnisono.
  • Go to ‘Mijn profiel’ / ‘Mon Profil’.
  • Change your details and click on ‘Gegevens bewaren’ / ‘Sauvegarder’.
Don't have a MyUnisono account?
Please submit your changes via the contact form. Be sure to include your customer and invoice number.
 
What happens to the money I pay?

Unisono transfers the Fair Remuneration share to PlayRight (representing the performing artists) and SIMIM (representing the producers). They each receive 50% of that remuneration, after which they distribute these royalties to their members.

The share of copyright royalties is distributed by Sabam to its authors, composers and publishers.

Who can I contact if I have any questions about my invoice for the Fair Remuneration from the period before January 2020?

Our partners SIMIM and PlayRight remain responsible for collecting any outstanding amounts. If your invoice was issued before January 2020, then you still need to pay it. We advise you not to delay in doing so.
Need more information?

What are the advantages of Unisono?

Unisono offers you the following advantages:

  • You can create a personal account via MyUnisono, our handy online registration tool;
  • In addition to a licence for the use of music, you can also apply for a licence for a film screening, a theatre performance, a public lecture, a literary exhibition or the reproduction of a work of art;
  • You can take care of everything with one licence and one payment;
  • This way, you compensate all right holders in one go;
  • On MyUnisono you can perform rate simulations without any obligation. This way, you won’t be faced with any surprises;
  • We also keep things clear for you, as you can monitor the status of your files in real time via MyUnisono.
I received a reminder (with reminder fees) but have never received an invoice. Why is this?

Did you opt for invoicing via e-mail?

Then your invoice may have ended up in your spam folder. Avoid this in the future by adding our e-mail address (noreply@invoicing.unisono.be) to your address book.

Or perhaps the e-mail address we have is no longer active? Check this quickly and easily via MyUnisono.

Did you opt for invoicing via Billtobox or Peppol?

Then please consult your invoice directly via this platform. Maybe you have forgotten to do so?

Did you opt for invoicing by post?

Then the address on your invoice may no longer be correct. Be sure to check this and report any changes via MyUnisono or the contact form.

Do you want to check or change your invoice details or preferences?

You can do this quickly and easily online:

  • Log in to MyUnisono.
  • Go to ‘Mijn profiel’ / ‘Mon Profil’.
  • Check or change your details or preferences and click on ‘Gegevens bewaren’ / ‘Sauvegarder’.
I have rented a music band for a party. Do I have to pay Unisono?

Yes, but you will only have to pay copyright royalties for the authors, composers and publishers. You will not have to pay the Fair Remuneration for the performing artists and music producers. You only have to pay the latter if you play recorded music in your business or during your event, not for live music.

This means that if you play recorded music before or after the performance by the music band, you will have to pay the Fair Remuneration.

I'm organising a charity event. Can I request an exemption or discount from Unisono?

Unisono unfortunately cannot grant you an exemption or discount. We collect royalties on behalf of songwriters, composers, performers, and producers whenever their music is played in public. These creators rely on Unisono to ensure they receive fair compensation for the use of their work.

Of course, music creators are not indifferent to the many meaningful charity initiatives out there. That’s why, on behalf of its members (songwriters, composers, and publishers), Sabam supports various charitable projects with a donation of € 250. This way, Sabam contributes to worthy causes while ensuring that creators receive the payment they are entitled to.

Would you like to request a donation from Sabam for your charity event? Find out more here.

On behalf of all music creators, Unisono wishes you every success with your project.

When do I not have to pay copyright royalties and/or the Fair Remuneration?

You do not have to pay copyright royalties:

  • if you are using music from the public domain.
  • if you are using royalty-free music.

In this catalogue you can find out whether a musical work belongs to Sabam’s national or international repertoire.

Is the music recording less than 70 years old? Then you do have to pay the Fair Remuneration.

You do not have to pay the Fair Remuneration:

  • if an artist, band or orchestra plays live music.
  • if you use recorded music in a theatre production or film. However, you must ask the producer of that music for permission directly to use it in your production.
    Please note that this does not apply to music you play in the foyer or at the bar. Or music that you play before or after the film screening or theatre performance. For those types of use, you do have to pay the Fair Remuneration.

In these cases, you do have to pay copyright royalties.

Why are there two separate items on my invoice?

Each invoice contains two separate items relating to the royalties that are due: one item for the copyright royalties and one for the Fair Remuneration.

The parameters on the basis of which the royalties due are calculated, are also shown on your invoice, as well as the VAT and, where applicable, any travel and assessment costs.

Finally, in the case of a licence for daily music use, your invoice will contain an extra line for the administrative costs.

I have received both a reminder and a duplicate of my original invoice. Which amount do I have to pay?
A duplicate of the original invoice is always attached to the reminder, but part of it may already have been credited or paid. 
 
The outstanding balance (including reminder fees) that you have to pay can be found on your reminder.
Do I have to pay Unisono if I use music from the ‘public domain’?

Music from the public domain:

  • music of which the authors and composers passed away more than 70 years ago;
  • and of which the recording is more than 70 years old.

If both conditions are met, you don’t have to pay Unisono. If not, you will have to pay copyright royalties and/or the Fair Remuneration to Unisono.

Using audiovisual works

Film screening

Are you organising a film screening? Then you need to arrange the screening rights (for the images) and the music rights (for the music in the film). For the screening rights, you can contact
I'm organising a film screening. What do I have to do to be in order?

To organise a film screening in a public setting, you need to arrange the screening rights (for the images) and the music rights (for the music in the film).
Are you planning on playing music before or after the film or during the interval? Then you will have to pay royalties for that as well.

Screening rights
You can contact Bevrijdingsfilms (responsible for the Dutch-speaking part of Belgium) or Libération Films (responsible for the French-speaking part of Belgium).

Bevrijdingsfilms
Tel.: 016/23 29 35
info@bevrijdingsfilms.be

Libération Films
Tel.: 02/217 48 47
info@liberationfilms.be

In cooperation with most Belgian, major American, and several Dutch and French distributors, they manage the screening rights of over 15,000 titles.
Is the film not a part of their catalogue? Please contact the producer/distributor of the film. You can find this information on the cover of the film, video, DVD, etc.

Music in the film
You can arrange the music rights quickly and easily at MyUnisono. Do this at least five days before the screening to avoid extra costs. You can find the rate here: Dutch – French.

You can arrange not only the screening rights but also the music rights via Bevrijdingsfilms. Be sure to check with them and make it easy on yourself.

Music before/after the film or during the interval
The Fair Remuneration is also owed for this use of music. Please apply for your licence at least five days before the screening via MyUnisono. You can find the rate here: Dutch – French.

Can I use existing images in my documentary, presentation

You can use existing film material provided that you have the written permission of the owner of the footage (production house, film producer, TV station,…). You have to contact the owner yourself.

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Using audiovisual works

Film screening

Are you organising a film screening? Then you need to arrange the screening rights (for the images) and the music rights (for the music in the film). For the screening rights, you can contact
I'm organising a film screening. What do I have to do to be in order?

To organise a film screening in a public setting, you need to arrange the screening rights (for the images) and the music rights (for the music in the film).
Are you planning on playing music before or after the film or during the interval? Then you will have to pay royalties for that as well.

Screening rights
You can contact Bevrijdingsfilms (responsible for the Dutch-speaking part of Belgium) or Libération Films (responsible for the French-speaking part of Belgium).

Bevrijdingsfilms
Tel.: 016/23 29 35
info@bevrijdingsfilms.be

Libération Films
Tel.: 02/217 48 47
info@liberationfilms.be

In cooperation with most Belgian, major American, and several Dutch and French distributors, they manage the screening rights of over 15,000 titles.
Is the film not a part of their catalogue? Please contact the producer/distributor of the film. You can find this information on the cover of the film, video, DVD, etc.

Music in the film
You can arrange the music rights quickly and easily at MyUnisono. Do this at least five days before the screening to avoid extra costs. You can find the rate here: Dutch – French.

You can arrange not only the screening rights but also the music rights via Bevrijdingsfilms. Be sure to check with them and make it easy on yourself.

Music before/after the film or during the interval
The Fair Remuneration is also owed for this use of music. Please apply for your licence at least five days before the screening via MyUnisono. You can find the rate here: Dutch – French.

Can I use existing images in my documentary, presentation

You can use existing film material provided that you have the written permission of the owner of the footage (production house, film producer, TV station,…). You have to contact the owner yourself.

DJ licence

How do I request a DJ licence?

You can easily do this via our website.

Once you have submitted your request, you will receive a confirmation email and an invoice with the fee for the remaining months of the year. Once we have received your payment, we will send you the DJ licence. The licence is valid until 31 December and will be renewed automatically afterwards.

How much does a DJ licence cost?

In 2025, the annual fee for a DJ licence is € 271,14 excluding VAT.

If you apply for a DJ licence during the year, we will calculate the fee for the remaining months of the year. In December, you will automatically receive an invoice for the renewal of your DJ licence for one year.

I’m no longer active as a DJ. Do I still have to pay my invoice?

You can stop your DJ licence at any time via the contact form.

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DJ licence

How do I request a DJ licence?

You can easily do this via our website.

Once you have submitted your request, you will receive a confirmation email and an invoice with the fee for the remaining months of the year. Once we have received your payment, we will send you the DJ licence. The licence is valid until 31 December and will be renewed automatically afterwards.

How much does a DJ licence cost?

In 2025, the annual fee for a DJ licence is € 271,14 excluding VAT.

If you apply for a DJ licence during the year, we will calculate the fee for the remaining months of the year. In December, you will automatically receive an invoice for the renewal of your DJ licence for one year.

I’m no longer active as a DJ. Do I still have to pay my invoice?

You can stop your DJ licence at any time via the contact form.

What happens to the money I pay for my DJ licence?

The fee you pay for the DJ licence concerns neighbouring rights royalties. This is a remuneration for the owners of the recordings, i.e. the music producers, who are represented by SIMIM.

Dj licence

If you wish to apply for a DJ licence, you can do this quite simply via MyUnisono. Once the invoice has been paid, the DJ licence will be sent to you by post. Yearly fee 2025 € 271,14 + 6% VAT Rate In
What if I don't have a DJ licence?

If we find out during an inspection that you are using copies but do not have a DJ licence, you can still apply for a DJ licence at that time and pay the annual fee.

If you do not wish to apply for a DJ licence, you risk having to pay damages amounting to twice the annual fee. In that case, you will also have to pay the transport and assessment costs (€ 125 + 21% VAT).

Why do I need a DJ licence? The organiser of the party where I will be playing has already requested a licence from Unisono.

Normally you are only allowed to copy your own music collection for private use. With a DJ licence however, you may copy your music as part of your activities as a DJ. This concerns the neighbouring rights.

The organiser of a party needs a licence from Unisono because he plays music at a party. This concerns the performing rights and the Fair Remuneration for a so-called ‘communication to the public’.

When do I need a DJ licence?

Do you only use original CDs, records or original downloads? Then you don't need a licence. But if you use copies, a DJ licence is required (for example, if you burn a compilation CD).

An original download is the first recording of this download on a computer or smartphone. Making a copy on another computer, external hard disk, smartphone, MP3 player, USB stick, CD-R, etc. is only allowed for private use.

Releasing a CD or DVD

Where can I apply for a barcode?

If you want more information about a barcode, please contact GS1 (FR - NL).

Am I obligated to work with a recognised presser?

If you want to duplicate repertoire of Sabam or of its sister societies, please contact an independent, recognised presser (FR - NL). 

What should I do if I want to release a DVD?

For a music DVD (e.g. recording of a concert), please submit your application for reproduction via eLicensing (FR version - NL version).

The collection amounts to 8% on the retail price (excl. VAT), with an absolute minimum of:

    - € 0.2576 for 2 works / max. 10 min.

    - € 0.3968 for 4 works / max. 20 min.

    - € 0.8312 for 18 works / max. 80 min.

If it concerns the reproduction of an audiovisual production containing musical works from the Sabam repertoire, you need a licence. Please provide us with the form ‘Licence application for the use of music in an audiovisual production’ FR - NL (for the sake of clarity: an audiovisual production has music in the background, whereas a music DVD has music in the foreground.)

The fee due corresponds to 3.5% of the wholesale price. We take into account the duration of the music in relation to the total duration of the film. However, it is important to note that a minimum fee of € 0.11 per copy applies (or per DVD if it concerns a box).

Are the director(s) and/or screenwriter(s) also affiliated to Sabam? Then you pay an additional fee that corresponds to 6.10% of the wholesale price (with a minimum fee of € 0.19 per copy or per DVD if it concerns a box).

Attention: we cannot decide whether or not you may use a certain track in an audiovisual work. You have to arrange this directly with the rightholders or their publisher and possibly the producer of the recording. You can look up the contact details of the rightholders via our website.

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Releasing a CD or DVD

Where can I apply for a barcode?

If you want more information about a barcode, please contact GS1 (FR - NL).

Am I obligated to work with a recognised presser?

If you want to duplicate repertoire of Sabam or of its sister societies, please contact an independent, recognised presser (FR - NL). 

What should I do if I want to release a DVD?

For a music DVD (e.g. recording of a concert), please submit your application for reproduction via eLicensing (FR version - NL version).

The collection amounts to 8% on the retail price (excl. VAT), with an absolute minimum of:

    - € 0.2576 for 2 works / max. 10 min.

    - € 0.3968 for 4 works / max. 20 min.

    - € 0.8312 for 18 works / max. 80 min.

If it concerns the reproduction of an audiovisual production containing musical works from the Sabam repertoire, you need a licence. Please provide us with the form ‘Licence application for the use of music in an audiovisual production’ FR - NL (for the sake of clarity: an audiovisual production has music in the background, whereas a music DVD has music in the foreground.)

The fee due corresponds to 3.5% of the wholesale price. We take into account the duration of the music in relation to the total duration of the film. However, it is important to note that a minimum fee of € 0.11 per copy applies (or per DVD if it concerns a box).

Are the director(s) and/or screenwriter(s) also affiliated to Sabam? Then you pay an additional fee that corresponds to 6.10% of the wholesale price (with a minimum fee of € 0.19 per copy or per DVD if it concerns a box).

Attention: we cannot decide whether or not you may use a certain track in an audiovisual work. You have to arrange this directly with the rightholders or their publisher and possibly the producer of the recording. You can look up the contact details of the rightholders via our website.

I want to bring out a free release, what should I do?

If you want to release a sound carrier (CD, DVD, record, etc.), you must first provide us with an application for reproduction. You can easily do this via MyUnisono (FR version - NL version).

After we have processed your application, we will send the ‘permission to press’ both to you and to the presser. However, the permission only becomes final after payment of the invoice.

The collection amounts to:

    - € 0.2576 for a single (2 works / max. 10min.)

    - € 0.3968 for a maxi single (4 works / max. 20min.)

    - € 0.8312 for an album (18 works / max. 80min.)
 

The rate is per copy and is increased by 6% VAT.

For your information:
Under ‘label’ you fill in the name of the music label. If you release the work yourself, you can choose any name you want. As far as Sabam is concerned, your label name has then been created and no further formalities need to be completed.

Under ‘catalogue number’ you enter the catalogue number of the release. A catalogue number is always ascending. If you self-release the work, please use an abbreviation of the label name and the numbers 01 for your first release.

Under ‘graphic reproduction’, please only tick ‘yes’ if you are using protected images on the cover of the work.

Be sure to take a look at our brochure for music on a sound carrier (FR - NL).  

I want to use music in a video. Am I allowed to do that?

Do you want to use a protected song in a video you made? In that case, you must first and foremost obtain permission from the publisher. Contact details for the publisher can be found in our catalogue.

Also keep in mind that in addition to the copyright (managed by an authors' society such as Sabam) there are also neighbouring rights (such as the rights of the producer who is responsible for the recording). If you want to make certain videos available on the Internet, the producers must grant you permission beforehand.

May I duplicate on CD-R myself?

This is certainly possible, but you must first and foremost send us an application for reproduction. You can easily do this via MyUnisono (FR version - NL version).

The collection amounts to 8% on the retail price of the CD (excluding VAT), with an absolute minimum of:

    - € 60 per application for reproduction of singles (2 works / max. 10min.)

    - € 125 per application for reproduction of albums (18 works / max. 80min.)


The rate is per copy and is increased by 6% VAT.

It is also mandatory to attach a tamper-proof and non-reusable hologram to each CD-R.

This hologram costs € 0.09 each (incl. VAT) and will automatically be added to your invoice.


For your information:
Under ‘label’ you fill in the name of the music label. If you release the work yourself, you can choose any name you want. As far as Sabam is concerned, your label name has then been created and no further formalities need to be completed.

Under ‘catalogue number’ you enter the catalogue number of the release. A catalogue number is always ascending. If you self-release the work, please use an abbreviation of the label name and the numbers 01 for your first release.

Under ‘graphic reproduction’, please only tick ‘yes’ if you are using protected images on the cover of the work.

Be sure to take a look at our brochure for music on a sound carrier (FR - NL). 

I want to use music in a video and then put it online. Am I allowed to do that?

In order to be allowed to use a song in a video, you must first request permission from the publisher of that song. Contact details for the publisher can be found in our catalogue.

Once that is done, you obviously want to share your video online as soon as possible. Please keep in mind that when you put something online, this constitutes a communication to the public, for which you will need a licence from Unisono and SIMIM.

You can apply for a licence via our online registration module MyUnisono (FR version - NL version). Here (FR - NL) you will find the rates for the use of music on a website.

Also keep in mind that in addition to the copyright (managed by an authors' society such as Sabam) there are also neighbouring rights (such as the rights of the producer who is responsible for the recording). If you want to make certain videos available on the Internet, the producers must grant you permission beforehand.

I'm releasing an album of my own with only my own songs. Do I have to pay reproduction rights?

Are you an associate of Sabam and do we manage your rights? Then the mechanical reproduction rights have to be paid, even if you release your own works on a sound carrier (self-production).

You may however be eligible for a copyright exemption (limited to a maximum of 1000 copies per catalogue number) if you meet the conditions below. There is also an administrative cost of € 50 (+ 21% VAT) per licence application.

  • the author(s)/composer(s) is/are 100% owner of all works on the sound carrier;
  • the applicant may not be a legal entity (non-profit association, private limited company,...);
  • the manufacturing costs are entirely at the expense of the author(s)/composer(s);
  • the works may not have been published at the time of the application;
  • Sabam has no obligation to the publisher if the works are published AFTER the self-released production. The author(s)/composer(s) is/are in that case directly liable to the publisher if the latter claims the copyrights for the pressing concerned;
  • the exemption only applies to authors/composers who are members of Sabam;
  • the application of the exemption must be explicitly requested.

Be sure to take a look at our brochure for music on a sound carrier (FR - NL).  

I am bringing out a release without Unisono repertoire. What should I do?

Are you releasing a CD or record with songs that are not represented by Sabam according to you? Then please state this clearly on your licence application in MyUnisono (FR version - NL version) and ask the authors/composers involved to fill in and sign this document. Please attach this document to your application.

Even if Sabam does not represent the repertoire, you have to submit a licence application. We will then provide you and the presser with a ‘declaration of non-intervention’. This way the presser knows that he may produce the sound carriers.

Be sure to take a look at our brochure for music on a sound carrier (FR - NL).  

What is an ISRC code and where can I get such a code?

ISRC (International Standard Recording Code) is an international identification system for sound recordings and music videos. It is a unique and permanent identification of a particular recording and can be encoded as a digital fingerprint in a publication of that recording.

Would you like to use an ISRC code? Then please contact SIMIM.

What do I have to do to release a CD, DVD, record,…?

If you want to release a sound carrier (CD, DVD, record, etc.), you must first provide us with an application for reproduction. You can easily do this via MyUnisono (FR version - NL version).

After we have processed your application, we will send the ‘permission to press’ both to you and to the presser. However, the permission only becomes final after payment of the invoice.

For a CD:

The collection amounts to 8% on the retail price (excluding VAT), with an absolute minimum of:

    - € 0.2576 for a single (2 works / max. 10min.)

    - € 0.3968 for a maxi single (4 works / max. 20min.)

    - € 0.8312 for an album (18 works / max. 80min.)
 

For a vinyl record:

The collection amounts to 8% on the retail price of the record (excluding VAT), with an absolute minimum of:

    - € 0.4048 for a 45 rpm + EP

    - € 0.4144 for a 33 rpm LP

The rate is per copy and is increased by 6% VAT.

For your information:
Under ‘label’ you fill in the name of the music label. If you release the work yourself, you can choose any name you want. As far as Sabam is concerned, your label name has then been created and no further formalities need to be completed.

Under ‘catalogue number’ you enter the catalogue number of the release. A catalogue number is always ascending. If you self-release the work, please use an abbreviation of the label name and the numbers 01 for your first release.

Under ‘graphic reproduction’, please only tick ‘yes’ if you are using protected images on the cover of the work.

Be sure to take a look at our brochure for music on a sound carrier (FR - NL).  

Organising an event

Why is the content I want to stream live via Facebook, YouTube,... blocked?
If a streaming platform blocks your content, Sabam has no hand in this. As a matter of fact, Sabam has a licence with those streaming platforms, so you can stream live as much as you want.

It is often the rights holders themselves who have your content blocked by the streaming platform. It is best to ask questions about this directly to the platform that blocked your content. They are the only ones who can help you with this.
 
What if I partially or mostly play royalty-free music at my event?

For parties we work with a ‘blanket licence’. This means that you get permission to play all works from both the Sabam repertoire and from the repertoire of foreign copyright management organisations with which Sabam has entered into a reciprocal agreement.

If not a single performed song is part of the repertoire represented by Sabam, you do not have to pay any copyright royalties. However, that chance is small. Because together with its foreign colleagues Sabam manages more than 95 percent of the world repertoire. You can check here whether or not the music you use is represented by Sabam.

Keep in mind you will always have to pay the Fair Remuneration for the performing artists and the music producers of that music. After all, the Fair Remuneration is conceived as a ‘compulsory licence’: rightholders cannot object to the playing of their repertoire, but in exchange for this exception to their property rights, they are entitled to fair remuneration. So be sure to always apply for a licence via MyUnisono.

I'm organising an event. What should I do?

Are you organising an event? Then you can apply for a licence via MyUnisono (FR version - NL version), our online registration module with which you can submit an application in just a few clicks. Don’t forget to do this at least 5 days in advance.

You can also consult our general terms and conditions and rates in Dutch or in French on our website. 

We will process your application for the event. If there is any information missing, we will contact you by mail. You will receive the invoice afterwards.

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Organising an event

Why is the content I want to stream live via Facebook, YouTube,... blocked?
If a streaming platform blocks your content, Sabam has no hand in this. As a matter of fact, Sabam has a licence with those streaming platforms, so you can stream live as much as you want.

It is often the rights holders themselves who have your content blocked by the streaming platform. It is best to ask questions about this directly to the platform that blocked your content. They are the only ones who can help you with this.
 
What if I partially or mostly play royalty-free music at my event?

For parties we work with a ‘blanket licence’. This means that you get permission to play all works from both the Sabam repertoire and from the repertoire of foreign copyright management organisations with which Sabam has entered into a reciprocal agreement.

If not a single performed song is part of the repertoire represented by Sabam, you do not have to pay any copyright royalties. However, that chance is small. Because together with its foreign colleagues Sabam manages more than 95 percent of the world repertoire. You can check here whether or not the music you use is represented by Sabam.

Keep in mind you will always have to pay the Fair Remuneration for the performing artists and the music producers of that music. After all, the Fair Remuneration is conceived as a ‘compulsory licence’: rightholders cannot object to the playing of their repertoire, but in exchange for this exception to their property rights, they are entitled to fair remuneration. So be sure to always apply for a licence via MyUnisono.

I'm organising an event. What should I do?

Are you organising an event? Then you can apply for a licence via MyUnisono (FR version - NL version), our online registration module with which you can submit an application in just a few clicks. Don’t forget to do this at least 5 days in advance.

You can also consult our general terms and conditions and rates in Dutch or in French on our website. 

We will process your application for the event. If there is any information missing, we will contact you by mail. You will receive the invoice afterwards.

Do I need to apply for a licence if I want to livestream a play or other dramatic work?
You do indeed need a licence from Unisono. This is taken care of as much as possible in consultation with the authors involved. It is therefore best to contact us in advance.
My event is private or organised in a family setting. Do I have to report it to Unisono?

If you organise a free event (no entrance fee, no artist fee, no sponsorship and no commercial purposes) that is not advertised and that takes place within the family circle, in this case, you do not need to obtain a license from Unisono.

I have not yet received an invoice for my event?

No problem. If you have submitted your application to Unisono, then the event may take place.

If you submitted your application via MyUnisono (FR version - NL version), you can follow the status of your application online.

Is there any information missing that we need for invoicing? Then we will contact you by mail. You will receive the invoice afterwards.

Do I have to apply for a licence and pay royalties when playing royalty-free music at my event?

There are 2 possibilities:

1) Do you only play live music at your event? Then you only pay authors’ rights royalties, no Fair Remuneration.

  • None of the songs belong to the Sabam repertoire or that of its foreign sister societies? Then we will invoice no authors’ rights royalties and you do not need to apply for a licence.

Note: In this case, please provide us at least 5 days before the event with a complete list of the musical works that will be played. You can use this form. Does this list still contain copyright-protected works? Then you will still have to apply for a licence and pay authors’ rights royalties.

  • Do only some of the songs belong to the Sabam repertoire? Or do you not yet know which works will be played? Then request your licence via MyUnisono at least 5 days before the event and provide us with the complete playlist(s) of the group(s) within 15 days after the event. You will then receive an invoice according to the proportion of protected works.
2) Do you play music during your event via a sound source (e.g. CD, radio, DJ, etc.) whether or not in combination with live music? Then you pay both authors’ rights royalties and Fair Remuneration.
  • In this case, the authors’ rights royalties are not calculated according to the proportion of protected works. In exchange for a fee, however, you may use as many songs from our repertoire as you wish during your event.

Are you not playing any work from our repertoire? Only then will you pay no authors’ rights royalties. That chance is small, though. Because together with its foreign colleagues, Sabam manages more than 95% of the world repertoire. Check here whether or not Sabam represents the music you use.

  • You always pay Fair Remuneration for music you play through a sound source. This is a compensation for the performers of that music, who cannot legally oppose to the playing of their repertoire. Consequently, the Fair Remuneration is always due.

When using music via a sound device, apply for your licence via MyUnisono at least 5 days before the event. Are you playing (partially) royalty-free music? Then mention this in the 'Additional info' step of your application and provide us with the complete playlist within 15 days after your event. Our staff will then automatically send you a correct invoice.

When do I not have to pay copyright royalties?

You do not have to pay any copyright royalties:

  1. if the work is not part of the Sabam repertoire or of the repertoire of its sister societies;
  2. if the work is part of the public domain.

In the second case, the surviving author of the work passed away more than seventy years ago. So we don't manage those works (anymore).

There is however one exception to this: an author or composer who creates an arrangement or adaptation of a work from the public domain. If that author or composer is himself a member of Sabam or of a foreign copyright society, we consider this arrangement or adaptation as a new work. And we will manage the rights for this new version.

I am organising an event with music in a venue that already has a ‘Multifunctional Venue’ licence. Do I still have to pay anything to Unisono?

Yes, you must pay for the copyright royalties that are due for your event. A ‘Multifunctional Venue’ licence is only valid for the Fair Remuneration and not for the copyright royalties.

With regard to Fair Remuneration, there are 2 types of licences for multifunctional venues:

  • a licence 'with drinks'
  • a licence 'with dance'

Whether or not you have to pay Fair Remuneration for your event depends on the type of licence of the venue and the type of event you are holding there.

For example: you are organising a dinner (without dancing) in a venue whose owner has a licence 'with drinks'. In this case, you do not pay Fair Remuneration, as your event is covered by the existing contract. However, if you hold a dance party there, you will have to pay Fair Remuneration, as the venue's licence is not valid for events involving dancing.

Via MyUnisono, you can quickly and easily check whether the venue in question has a licence for Fair Remuneration and which type of licence it is.

Please note: you will always have to apply for a licence for the copyright royalties for your event with music in a multifunctional venue.

I want to install a screen during an event. How do I handle this?

As protected works will be communicated to the public, you will have to submit a licence application to Unisono.

If you already have a licence - as a catering manager - for audio equipment and want to temporarily install an audiovisual device, you can consult the possibilities in the rate for daily use (FR - NL).

If you are organising an event to broadcast television images, therate for sporadic use (FR - NL) applies.

When organising, for example, a party (rate for parties : FR - NL), the installation of a screen is included.

We recommend that you make your request via MyUnisono.

We are a non-profit organisation. Can we claim a discount or exemption?

Unisono is obliged to always collect for the use of the repertoire of its members and that of its sister organisations.

After all, we cannot decide on their behalf what happens to their royalties. Therefore, we cannot grant an exemption or discount.

Do I have to apply for a licence when I want to livestream a party, workshop, living room performance, DJ set,...?

In most cases not because Sabam has already concluded a copyright licence with the main streaming platforms, including Facebook and YouTube. When you stream live via one of these platforms, you do not need to apply for a licence from us. The full list of platforms that are already licensed can be found here.

Please note that your initiative may not have a commercial purpose. If you ask a financial contribution from the viewers/listeners or if you pay a fee to the performing artists, then please apply for your licence at the usual streaming rates here.

 

I have a question about the amount on my invoice.

You can find all rates on our website, both for daily use (FR - NL) and for events (FR - NL)

Or contact us via the contact form. Please don’t forget to specify your customer number as well as the invoice number.

Events

Then Music is indispensable. It amplifies emotions and gives your visitors an unforgettable experience. With the right music, you can make your event a resounding success!

Reproducing a work of visual art

Are there exceptions to the reproduction right?

Yes, there are. According to the Code of Economic Law, there are three exceptions where the author cannot oppose a reproduction:

  • When short fragments of works or complete works of visual art are communicated to the public in a report on current events.
  • In the case of reproduction and public communication for advertising purposes, public exhibitions or public sales of artistic works, in so far as it is necessary for the promotion of those events.
  • When a work is quoted for the purpose of criticism, polemics, reviews, education, or in the context of scientific works. However, you do have to state the source and the name of the author.

All exceptions must be interpreted restrictively.

Visual arts

Unisono also manages the rights of visual artists, photographers, graphic designers, painters, sculptors, architects, installation artists, cartoonists, etc. According to copyright law, you have to
With which countries does Sabam have a reciprocal agreement for visual arts?

Here you will find the list of countries with which Sabam had concluded a reciprocal agreement.

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Reproducing a work of visual art

Are there exceptions to the reproduction right?

Yes, there are. According to the Code of Economic Law, there are three exceptions where the author cannot oppose a reproduction:

  • When short fragments of works or complete works of visual art are communicated to the public in a report on current events.
  • In the case of reproduction and public communication for advertising purposes, public exhibitions or public sales of artistic works, in so far as it is necessary for the promotion of those events.
  • When a work is quoted for the purpose of criticism, polemics, reviews, education, or in the context of scientific works. However, you do have to state the source and the name of the author.

All exceptions must be interpreted restrictively.

Visual arts

Unisono also manages the rights of visual artists, photographers, graphic designers, painters, sculptors, architects, installation artists, cartoonists, etc. According to copyright law, you have to
With which countries does Sabam have a reciprocal agreement for visual arts?

Here you will find the list of countries with which Sabam had concluded a reciprocal agreement.

Declaration

If the author of the work you want to use is a member of Sabam or another authors' association, you can contact us for permission. In exchange, we ensure that the royalties are correctly passed on to
Can I obtain a royalty-free licence to reproduce a work of art, photo, text or poem?

Yes, but only the author of the original work or his/her heirs can grant a royalty-free permission, not the copyright society.

Can an owner of an original work reproduce this work without permission?

No, unless the owner is also the author of the work. If this is not the case, he must obtain permission for the reproduction.

The reproduction right always remains in the hands of the author or his/her heirs, even if the original work is no longer in their possession.

Rate

The royalties due for a reproduction of a literary work or a work of art vary according to the medium, the number of reproductions, the format of the medium, the format of the reproduction, etc. All
Do I need permission to quote a work (film, text, music, photo,...) by another author?

It is sometimes said that you can reproduce extracts of works (music, films, texts, etc.) without permission as long as these extracts are not too long. That's not true.

There is a right to quote, but this is subject to certain conditions (see Article XI.189 §1 of the Code of Economic Law):

  1. The quotation must be made in the context of criticism, polemics, reviews, education or scientific work.
  2. The quotation must be justified in the context of the objective you have in mind. The extract should therefore not be longer than necessary to clarify what is to be explained.
  3. The title of the work and the name of the author must be stated.
  4. The quotation must come from a work that has already been made public. Quoting a work that an author has not yet wished to make public amounts to a violation of his/her right to disclosure.

Please make sure that the permission covers both copyright and any neighbouring rights (rights of producers, performing artists and broadcasting organisations).

And keep in mind that the rightholders have an exclusive right and are therefore free to impose their conditions.

What is the reproduction right?

The reproduction right constitutes copyright royalties collected for the reproduction of an existing work on different types of media (e.g. paper media such as a book, brochure, flyer, etc., internet pages, television images, merchandising,…).

How do I find a publisher for the publication of a manuscript?

If you are looking for a publisher, please contact one of the following associations:

For Dutch speakers:

Vlaamse Uitgeversvereniging (VUV) - Te Boelaerlei 37 - 2140 Borgerhout - Tel. 03/287.66.92 http://www.boek.be/   

For French speakers:  

Association des Editeurs Belges (ADEB) - Boulevard Lambermont 140/1 - 1030 Brussels - Tel. 02/241.65.80 http://www.adeb.be/

What should I do if I want to reproduce a work of art, photo, text or poem?

In order to reproduce a work of art, photo, text or poem, all you have to do is send us a completed licence application (FR - NL).

Using music in a theatre play

Theatre & dance

Are you planning to perform a play? Or do you want to organise a stand-up comedy event? Then apply for a licence online via MyUnisono Application for permission for theatre and dance (NL) - (FR) The
We use pre-existing music in our theatre performance. How much does this cost?

If you use pre-existing music in your theatre play, the amount due depends on the number of minutes you play music. It is therefore important to provide us with a list of the songs along with their duration. You can find the rate here.

This rate only applies if the rightholders of the musical works that are used in the performance have given their prior consent for this use. Via this link you can consult our repertoire.

When do I have to report the receipts?

We ask you to report the receipts within eight days after a performance or after the last performance in a series of performances.

You can also do this at a later date if you ask us a substantiated question within eight days.

If you don't report your receipts on time, we will calculate the royalties due on the basis of a full venue.

Using music in a video

What is the synchronisation right?

The synchronisation right is the right of the composer or publisher of a work to decide whether someone may use (a part of) his musical work in a different context than the original.

Examples of this are:

- in TV or cinema films with short, medium or long playing time and documentaries that can be viewed in the cinema or on TV

- commercial, promotional and/or advertising products, such as:

- gadgets
- tablets
- smartphones
- toys
- greeting cards
- merchandising
- audiovisual products
- multimedia product
- non-commercial productions
- advertisements

Where can I find library music?

Here are the websites where you can find library music (also known as stock music or production music):

BMG Production Music
Mr Tom Bakvis		Oude Amersfoortseweg 123-2
1212 AA Hilversum		(+31) 35 760 14 80
 tom.bakvis@bmg.combmgproductionmusic.be
CTM Entertainment
Ms Benthe Waegeman		Barastraat 175
1070 Anderlecht		(02)560.21.15
 Benthe.Waegeman@ctmentertainment.be
info@ctmentertainment.be		ctmentertainment.be
MUSIC & IMAGES
Ms Annemie Hendrikx		Eugène Plaskylaan 179
1030 Brussel		(02)612.17.89
(0475)83.42.16
 annemie@musicandimages.bemusicandimages.be
universalproductionmusic.com
extrememusic.com
SMI Production Music
Ms Brigitte Mwani		Broosveldstraat 2A
3570 Alken		(0473)88.92.40
 brigitte@smipm.comsmipm.com
sonoton.com

 

How do I take care of the synchronisation rights?

1. Existing music

Option 1: the work has been published.
Please contact the publisher(s). The contact details can be found in our online catalogue.

Option 2: the work has not been published.
Please contact us.

Existing recording

Follow option 1 or 2 and also contact the owner of the recording rights (i.e. the record company or the producer).

All rightholders may prohibit the use of their work. Are you allowed to use the work? Then they may determine the corresponding fee. There is no minimum or maximum fee.

2. Library music

Library music (also known as stock music or production music) consists of repertoire that has been composed and/or compiled to accompany audio(visual) productions.

Several publishers manage such a repertoire. They represent both the authors and the rightholders of the recordings.

Do you want to use library music? Please ask us for permission, because we manage the rights. It is not possible to obtain permission from one of the publishers.

You will find an overview of companies that sell library music on this page.

3. Original music

Do you have music composed for your production? Then you make a direct agreement with the composer. With this standard agreement, you can make clear arrangements.

Is the composer a member of Sabam or another authors' association? Then he will also register his work there.

4. Music from the public domain

Music from the public domain is free of copyright. This concerns works of which the surviving author or composer died more than seventy years ago.

Existing recording

Are you using an existing recording? If so, please contact the record company concerned first.

 

Using music in a business

I only play foreign music in my business. Why do I receive an invoice from Unisono?

Unisono’s aim is to grant licences for the repertoire:

  • of the authors, represented by Sabam;
  • of the performing artists, represented by PlayRight;
  • and of the music producers, represented by Simim.

These three organisations represent the repertoires of their members and have concluded agreements with sister organisations abroad to also represent the rights of their members, and vice versa. This means that Unisono must also act on behalf of the members of other management organisations abroad. Unisono therefore does not only represent the repertoire of its Belgian members.

Playing foreign music in your business does not mean you don’t have to pay your Unisono invoice.

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Using music in a business

I only play foreign music in my business. Why do I receive an invoice from Unisono?

Unisono’s aim is to grant licences for the repertoire:

  • of the authors, represented by Sabam;
  • of the performing artists, represented by PlayRight;
  • and of the music producers, represented by Simim.

These three organisations represent the repertoires of their members and have concluded agreements with sister organisations abroad to also represent the rights of their members, and vice versa. This means that Unisono must also act on behalf of the members of other management organisations abroad. Unisono therefore does not only represent the repertoire of its Belgian members.

Playing foreign music in your business does not mean you don’t have to pay your Unisono invoice.

I only use the TV in my business for sports and news broadcasts. Why do I receive an invoice from Unisono?

Broadcasters such as CNN and Sporza also play advertising, reports and music during, before or after their sports or news broadcasts, so these include works that are represented by Unisono.

How can I receive a duplicate of my invoice?


Send us an e-mail with your customer number and the number of the invoice of which you want to receive a duplicate. You will receive a copy by e-mail a few days later.

 

Daily use

A smart choice! Music creates ambience plus the perfect experience for your customers. It is moreover an investment that quickly pays for itself!
I want to play a one-time sports match on a big screen. Do I have to pay copyright royalties for this?

You can apply for a licence via MyUnisono (FR version - NL version), our online registration module with which you can submit an application in just a few clicks. Don’t forget to do this at least 5 days in advance.

You can also consult our rates for events on our website. If you are looking for information on a particular tariff, you can find all of them here in Dutch or in French.

We will process your application for the event. If there is any information missing, we will contact you by mail. You will receive the invoice afterwards.

I want to change my licence for daily music use. How do I do that?

That depends on the type of change you want to make:

  • Do you want to change the VAT number? Then we must stop the existing licence and create a new one with the new VAT number. Please provide us with the old and new number via our contact form and we will take care of it!
  • Do you want to change your invoicing or contact details? Log in to MyUnisono and change your details quickly and easily via ‘My Profile’.
  • Do you want to change the parameters of your licence (e.g. surface area, opening days,…)?You can change some parameters yourself. Log in to MyUnisono, click on ‘My declarations’ and then on ‘Contracts’. Click on ‘Update’ to go through your existing licence and adjust it where necessary. Confirm your changes by clicking on ‘Submit’.You cannot change the desired parameters yourself? Please send us your changes via our contact form, stating your customer or invoice number and we will take care of it!

 

 

 

How many employees do I have to mention in the licence agreement for music in companies?
To calculate the royalties, we look at the total number of FTEs (full-time equivalents) included in the social balance sheet at 31 December of the year before invoicing. This number can be found in section 105 of the social balance sheet.

Do you employ fewer than 9 FTEs? Then you don’t have to pay any royalties for music on the work floor, in the dining areas or during your staff parties.

Is a large number of your employees unable to listen to music? Then you can request a  special arrangement via our website.
 
I only play music in my business via a streaming service. Do I still have to pay Unisono?

If you have a subscription to a streaming service such as Tunify and DJ-Matic, you pay them for making their repertoire available. No more, no less. If you would only listen to this music in your private life, you would not have to pay any royalties to us.

However, because you play this music in a public place (e.g. in a shop, restaurant, café, cinema or business premises), you also have to pay performing royalties and the Fair Remuneration. These royalties must be arranged via Unisono.

Attention: you may not just use any streaming service in a public place. Streaming services such as Spotify, YouTube, Deezer, Simfy and Omnifone are only intended for personal and non-commercial use. This is clearly stated in their general terms and conditions of use.

Click here for a list of streaming services that have an agreement with Sabam and are therefore allowed to provide music to be played in public places.

As a member of a hospitality federation, I am entitled to a discount on my annual invoice. How do I apply for it?
Apply for this discount directly at your federation. How? Simple! Deliver them:
  • a copy of your Unisono invoice;
  • a proof of payment;
  • your bank account number.
Need more information? Visit your federation's website:
How can I terminate my licence for Music in companies?

You can easily do so via the contact form on our website or at company@unisono.be.

There are two possible scenarios:

1. You no longer use music in your business
Let us know at least 1 month before your licence expires. Please note: your licence does not expire in any case until 31 December of the current calendar year and the invoice for the current year remains due in full.

Do you cancel your licence too late? Then we will automatically extend your licence by one year.

2. You cease your business activities
In this case, provide us with a document showing the exact date of termination. Possible proof of termination are:


• proof of transfer of the business;
• proof of termination of the rental agreement;
• entry in the Belgian Official Gazette;
• proof of VAT deregistration;
• proof from the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises.


If you permanently cease your activities in the first 6 months of the calendar year, you are entitled to a refund of 50% of the fee paid for that year. Be sure to apply for this refund via our contact form or at company@unisono.be.

Are you unable to provide us with proof? Then we will only terminate your licence on 31 December of the current calendar year and the invoice for the current year will still be due in full.
 

My business is not open all year round, but only during the season. Do I have to pay copyright royalties and the Fair Remuneration to Unisono for a whole year?

Is your (hospitality) business operated for a maximum of one uninterrupted quarter throughout the calendar year? Then you only pay 50% of the annual amount as far as the copyright royalties are concerned.

Is your (hospitality) business operated for a maximum of one uninterrupted semester throughout the calendar year? Then you pay 75% of the annual amount as far as the copyright royalties are concerned.

Is your (hospitality) business closes for at least 3 full and consecutive months during the calendar year? Then you pay the annual amount divided by ten, multiplied by the number of months in which your business is open as far as the Fair Remuneration is concerned.

I run a catering business (pub, restaurant, …). Am I entitled to a discount?
Yes! At least if you are a member of Horeca Brussels, Horeca Vlaanderen or Horeca Wallonie. In that case you are entitled to an annual discount on your Unisono invoice.

This amounts to 10% of the annual amount of authors’ rights with a maximum of € 57.81 (for 2025).

Please note that this discount does not apply to the part ‘Fair Compensation’ on your invoice or to a licence for hotel rooms.

Apply for your discount directly at your federation and they will do the rest.
Liberal profession: do I have to pay copyright royalties and the Fair Remuneration when I play music in the waiting room of my practice?

Liberal profession: do I have to pay copyright royalties and the Fair Remuneration when I play music in the waiting room of my practice?

You don’t have to pay the Fair Remuneration for playing music in your waiting room if you meet the following conditions:

  1. You practise a liberal profession*;
  2. The music can be heard through your intervention;
  3. There is a relatively fixed patient or client base;
  4. There are only a limited number of clients/patients present at the same time in the practice or waiting room;
  5. You do not intend to make a profit by playing music.

If you meet all of these conditions, you are exempt from paying the Fair Remuneration. You will however always have to pay copyright royalties for playing music in your waiting room.

If you sell goods, there is no exemption. This means pharmacists, opticians, etc. do have to pay the Fair Remuneration for playing music.

* Definition of a liberal profession: The practitioner of a liberal profession is any company that carries out a professional activity in an intellectually independent manner that mainly consists of intellectual services, has received the required training, and is subject to a disciplinary body established by law, including dentists and physiotherapists.

I already pay Unisono for music in my business. Why do I still need a separate licence to play music in staff rooms?

There is a difference between the use of music in a public space (e.g. a shop) and in staff rooms (e.g. offices).

When using music in a public space, as a company you need a Unisono licence for daily music use. This licence covers the copyright royalties (for authors, composers and publishers) and the Fair Remuneration (for performing artists and producers).

The licence is linked to a location and the calculation is based on the surface area of that location.

When using music in staff rooms (non-public space), you need a Unisono licence for music in companies. This licence too covers both the copyright royalties and the neighbouring rights royalties, but only for music use in offices, workshops and warehouses to which only your employees have access.

A licence for music in companies is linked to your company number. The calculation is based on the total number of FTEs (full-time equivalents) on the social balance sheet of the year before invoicing.

Do you have a licence for music use in a public space as well as a licence for music use in staff rooms? Then you can apply for a special arrangement in certain cases.

Can I spread the payment of my annual invoice?

Yes, you can choose to pay your Unisono invoice by trimester or by semester. This allows you to spread the cost over the year, giving you more financial flexibility.

However, paying annually remains the most cost-effective option. The fewer invoices we need to send and process, the lower the costs.

Example: A year of music costs €100.

 

  • Prefer to pay by trimester? You will pay 4 instalments of €25.
  • Would you rather pay by semester? Instead of 2 instalments of €50, you pay only €46.50 each time, totalling €93 (a 7% discount).
  • If you opt for a single annual payment, you pay just €88 (a 12% discount).

 

Want to adjust your payment schedule? It’s quick and easy:

 

  1. Log in to MyUnisono.
  2. Go to 'My Declarations' and select the 'Contracts' tab.
  3. Click 'Update' next to your licence.
  4. Follow the steps to adjust your payment frequency.
  5. Click 'Submit' – and you're all set!

 

Once updated, you will receive a credit note cancelling your annual invoice, and we will send you a new invoice every 3 months (trimester) or 6 months (semester). Your business, your rhythm!

How can I terminate my licence for daily use?

You can easily do so via the contact form on our website or at stop@unisono.be.

There are two possible scenarios:

1. You no longer use music in your business
Let us know at least 1 month before your licence expires. Please note: your licence does not expire in any case until 31 December of the current calendar year and the invoice for the current year remains due in full.

Do you cancel your licence too late? Then we will automatically extend your licence by one year.

2. You cease your business activities
In this case, provide us with a document showing the exact date of termination. Possible proof of termination are:


• proof of transfer of the business;
• proof of termination of the rental agreement;
• entry in the Belgian Official Gazette;
• proof of VAT deregistration;
• proof from the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises.


If you permanently cease your activities in the first 6 months of the calendar year, you are entitled to a refund of 50% of the fee paid for that year. Be sure to apply for this refund via our contact form or at stop@unisono.be.

Are you unable to provide us with proof? Then we will only terminate your licence on 31 December of the current calendar year and the invoice for the current year will still be due in full.

Playlists & eLicensing

How do I submit a playlist via eLicensing?

You can submit your playlist via eLicensing (FR version - NL version). Please log in first. Then go to "My registrations".

- Click on the pencil of the event for which you have to fill in the playlist(s).

- Click on "Actions playlist".

- Fill in the playlist or delegate the playlist to, for instance, the artist or DJ.

If you choose to delegate the playlist, the artist or DJ will receive an e-mail with a link to the playlist. He or she does not need a separate login.

What if the artist has provided Unisono with the playlist himself?

If the artist has already completed the playlist, ask him or her for the reference number. You can then specify this number via your MyUnisono account.

Please do so by filling in the required fields for one work and filling in the reference number as a comment.

We only played a compilation CD / the radio was on. Is a playlist necessary?

Yes. Also in these cases it is useful for Unisono that you submit the playlist via MyUnisono (FR version - NL version). After all, we distribute the copyright royalties among the authors and composers involved based on your playlist.

If there is no playlist, we will distribute the royalties you paid over all playlists available for live performances or on the basis of ‘substitution lists' in case of a party.

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Playlists & eLicensing

How do I submit a playlist via eLicensing?

You can submit your playlist via eLicensing (FR version - NL version). Please log in first. Then go to "My registrations".

- Click on the pencil of the event for which you have to fill in the playlist(s).

- Click on "Actions playlist".

- Fill in the playlist or delegate the playlist to, for instance, the artist or DJ.

If you choose to delegate the playlist, the artist or DJ will receive an e-mail with a link to the playlist. He or she does not need a separate login.

What if the artist has provided Unisono with the playlist himself?

If the artist has already completed the playlist, ask him or her for the reference number. You can then specify this number via your MyUnisono account.

Please do so by filling in the required fields for one work and filling in the reference number as a comment.

We only played a compilation CD / the radio was on. Is a playlist necessary?

Yes. Also in these cases it is useful for Unisono that you submit the playlist via MyUnisono (FR version - NL version). After all, we distribute the copyright royalties among the authors and composers involved based on your playlist.

If there is no playlist, we will distribute the royalties you paid over all playlists available for live performances or on the basis of ‘substitution lists' in case of a party.

We only played works by foreign artists. Is a playlist necessary?

Unisono’s aim is to grant licences for the repertoire:

  • of the authors, represented by Sabam;
  • of the performing artists, represented by PlayRight;
  • and of the music producers, represented by Simim.

These three organisations represent the repertoires of their members and have concluded agreements with sister organisations abroad to also represent the rights of their members, and vice versa. This means that Unisono must also act on behalf of the members of other management organisations abroad. Unisono therefore does not only represent the repertoire of its Belgian members.

Playing foreign music in your business does not mean you don’t have to pay your Unisono invoice.

I have submitted an incorrect/incomplete playlist. Can I still change it?

Once you have submitted the playlist via MyUnisono, you can no longer change it.

If you want to make changes, please send us the correct playlist via the contact form while specifying the reference number of your event (21/xxxxxxx).

Why do I have to send a playlist?

It is on the basis of your playlist that the royalties you paid go to the right authors and composers. That’s why it’s important that Unisono has a list of the music played for each event.

You can send us the playlist via MyUnisono (FR version - NL version).

What if I don’t?

If there is no playlist, we will distribute the royalties you paid over all playlists available for live performances or on the basis of ‘substitution lists' in case of a party.

Reproduction right

Visual arts & resale right

Resale right

Graphic artists and photographers are entitled to resale right royalties when one of their original works of art is sold through an art market professional. Since 1 July 2015, art market professionals

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