PRS modifies new live-streaming licence regulation

The news last week that the Performing Right Society was instituting a licence fee for ticketed small-scale live-streamed events prompted widespread criticism from the music industry. 

Many feared that the move would put smaller operations and artists out of pocket. 

PRS for Music has today announced a new provision to the licence: if a member wants to perform an online ticketed live concert exclusively of their own works, where they will receive all the royalties due, they can obtain a licence at no cost to them.

The free licence will be available to concerts with revenues below £500.

Qualifying members can apply by emailing applications@prsformusic.com

Michelle Escoffery, president of the PRS Members’ Council, said: 'We are committed to making sure that our songwriters, composers and publishers are well supported, so it is essential that all our members share in the value being generated by online live-streamed concerts when their songs are performed.

'The change announced today we hope addresses many of the concerns expressed to us over the last few days. PRS will continue to listen to the views of our members in these most difficult of times.'