The music licensing industry in the US facilitates the legal use of music across various media, including film, television, and digital platforms. This sector comprises performance rights organizations, music publishers, and licensing agencies, all of which help creators manage their rights effectively. As technological advancements continue to reshape how music is consumed, there's an increasing demand for ease of access and transparency. Companies are leveraging innovative solutions to provide robust analytics and support for artists, ensuring they receive fair compensation. The future looks promising, driven by rising content creation demand and shifting consumer preferences towards personalized music experiences.

This list showcases 16 prominent music licensing companies across the United States, varying in size from small teams of around 11 to larger firms employing over 1,000 people. Many of these companies are headquartered in key music hubs like Nashville and New York, with notable founding years ranging from 1927 to 2014. They offer specialized services, including rights management, royalty collection, music supervision, and custom music production. Each company serves a unique niche, addressing different needs within the music licensing framework, ultimately contributing to a rich tapestry of services in this vital industry.

Read on to discover the top music licensing companies in the US.

Top 16 Music Licensing Companies in the US

1. Sesac

• Website: sesac.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Nashville, Tennessee, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: January 2017
• Founded year: 1931
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: sesac

SESAC, based in Nashville, Tennessee, is a performance rights organization that has been serving the music industry since 1931. The company specializes in music licensing services, helping businesses that play music in their establishments comply with U.S. copyright laws. SESAC manages performance rights for a catalog that boasts over 1.5 million songs, representing a wide array of songwriters, composers, and publishers. The organization is particularly active in sectors like hospitality and retail, where music plays a vital role in enhancing customer experience. SESAC also supports its affiliates through various initiatives, including awards and events that celebrate their achievements. The company operates on an invitation-only basis for new affiliates, ensuring a curated representation of talent. SESAC Latina is a notable branch that focuses on Latin music, further expanding its reach within the industry.

2. Concord

• Website: concord.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Nashville, Tennessee, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 78%, United Kingdom (UK) 11%, Germany 3%, Other 8%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), $850.0M, October 2024
• Founded year: 1969
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: concordofficial

Concord, founded in 1969 and headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee, is a prominent music publisher and entertainment company. With a workforce of approximately 1,492 employees, Concord specializes in sound recordings, music publishing, and theatrical performance rights. The company boasts a catalog that includes over 1.2 million songs and works across various genres, representing celebrated songwriters and composers. Concord's music publishing division offers comprehensive services, including synchronization licensing, copyright management, and royalty tracking. They have a global presence with offices in major cities such as Los Angeles, New York, London, and Berlin. Recently, Concord secured $850 million in funding, indicating strong investor confidence in their business model and growth potential. Their commitment to supporting artists and songwriters in managing their music rights positions them as a key player in the music licensing industry.

3. Audiosocket

• Website: audiosocket.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 80%, United Kingdom (UK) 13%, Pakistan 7%
• Latest funding: $650,000, May 2013
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: audiosocket

Audiosocket, based in Seattle, Washington, is a music licensing company that specializes in providing a vast catalog of songs and sound effects for various media projects. Founded in 2007, the company has built a reputation for its innovative Music-as-a-Service (MaaS) solutions, which allow developers and businesses to easily integrate high-quality music into their applications, games, and other digital platforms. With a catalog exceeding 100,000 tracks, Audiosocket serves a wide range of clients, including ad agencies, film studios, and content creators. The company emphasizes a user-friendly experience, offering curated playlists and advanced search tools to help users find the perfect track for their projects. Audiosocket has also received funding, with a notable investment of $650,000 in 2013, which has likely supported its growth and technological advancements in the music licensing field.

4. Music Reports, Inc

• Website: musicreports.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 98%, United Kingdom (UK) 2%
• Latest funding: August 2020
• Founded year: 1995
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: music-reports-inc

Music Reports, Inc., founded in 1995 and based in Los Angeles, California, is a private equity-owned company that specializes in music rights administration. The firm provides comprehensive licensing and royalty accounting services tailored for media and entertainment companies. Their innovative platforms, such as the Songdex® Marketplace and Cuetrak™, streamline the management of music rights and cue sheets, respectively. Music Reports serves a global clientele, processing over 400 million in annual royalties and managing more than 1 million cue sheets each year. Their commitment to transparency and efficiency has made them a trusted partner for numerous businesses in the music industry, helping clients navigate the complexities of music licensing and rights management.

5. Kobalt Music

• Website: kobaltmusic.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 47%, United Kingdom (UK) 43%, Germany 2%, Other 8%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), $716.5M, March 2024
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: kobalt-music-group

Kobalt Music Group, Ltd. is a music publishing and rights management company based in New York, founded in 2000. The firm has established itself as a significant player in the music industry by providing innovative technology solutions tailored for artists, songwriters, and publishers. Kobalt emphasizes transparency and efficiency in royalty collection, which is vital for creators seeking to maximize their earnings. With a global footprint, Kobalt serves over 700,000 songs and boasts a roster that includes prominent songwriters and artists. The company has raised substantial funding, including a recent $716.5 million investment in March 2024, aimed at enhancing its technology and expanding its services. Kobalt's unique approach to rights management and its commitment to empowering creators position it as a noteworthy entity in the music licensing sector.

6. Downtown Music

• Website: downtownmusic.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 67%, Netherlands 18%, United Kingdom (UK) 8%, Other 6%
• Latest funding: $775.0M, December 2024
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: downtownmusic

Downtown Music Holdings, founded in 2007 and headquartered in New York City, is a corporate entity that specializes in music rights management and services. The company supports creators and rights holders by providing a range of services, including royalty collection, music publishing, and digital distribution. Downtown Music operates on a global scale, managing over 50 million music assets across more than 145 countries. They cater to a wide array of clients, from emerging artists to established music labels, ensuring that all creators receive fair compensation for their work. The company has expanded its portfolio to include various brands such as CD Baby, FUGA, and Songtrust, which enhance its capabilities in distribution and licensing. Downtown Music is also actively involved in advocacy efforts aimed at promoting equity within the music industry, demonstrating a commitment to the welfare of artists and rights holders. Recently, the company secured significant funding, amounting to $775 million, which underscores its growth and ambition in the music sector.

7. Songtradr

• Website: songtradr.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Santa Monica, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 50%, United Kingdom (UK) 23%, Germany 5%, Other 22%
• Latest funding: Series E-K, $70.0M, November 2023
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: songtradr-inc

Songtradr is a music licensing platform based in Santa Monica, California, founded in 2014. The company provides a range of services that include music supervision, curation, and rights management. It serves a variety of clients, from brands and agencies to independent artists, helping them navigate the complexities of music licensing. Songtradr has developed a robust technology platform that streamlines access to music, making it easier for users to find and license tracks for their projects. The company has also expanded its reach through strategic acquisitions, including Bandcamp, which enhances its offerings for independent artists. With a recent funding round of $70 million in November 2023, Songtradr is positioned for continued growth and innovation in the music licensing sector.

8. Musicbed

• Website: musicbed.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Fort Worth, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 92%, Nigeria 8%
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: musicbed

Musicbed, based in Fort Worth, Texas, is a private music licensing service that has been operational since 2010. The company specializes in providing high-quality music tailored for filmmakers, production companies, and various creative projects. Musicbed offers a comprehensive suite of services, including music licensing, custom music creation, and rights management, ensuring that clients can find the perfect music for their projects while remaining compliant with legal requirements. With a roster of over 1,400 artists, Musicbed provides a wide array of musical options across different genres. Their commitment to customer service is evident in their offerings, which include a premium licensing service that allows clients to license any song in the world, as well as a custom music service that collaborates with top-tier composers and producers. Musicbed's innovative features, such as their AI-powered song search and exclusive claim-clearing service, further position them as a significant player in the music licensing industry.

9. Primary Wave

• Website: primarywave.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, Other 3%
• Latest funding: $1.7B, October 2022
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: primary-wave-music

Primary Wave Music is a New York-based music publishing and talent management firm founded in 2006. The company specializes in managing the rights of iconic artists and songwriters, offering a range of services that include marketing, film and television production, and digital marketing. Their clientele spans both individual artists and corporations seeking music for various media. Primary Wave has built a reputation for acquiring and managing the catalogs of legendary artists such as Kurt Cobain, Bob Marley, and Prince, among others. They have successfully integrated their artists into modern markets through innovative marketing strategies and licensing opportunities. The company also has a talent management division that represents critically acclaimed artists and producers. In October 2022, Primary Wave secured $1.7 billion in funding, underscoring their growth potential and commitment to expanding their influence in the music industry.

10. HFA/Rumblefish

• Website: harryfox.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: July 2015
• Founded year: 1927
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: the-harry-fox-agency

HFA/Rumblefish, also known as The Harry Fox Agency, is a music rights management and licensing agency based in New York City. Established in 1927, the company specializes in mechanical licensing and royalty collection, providing essential services to music publishers and digital distributors. HFA simplifies the complexities of music rights, offering an online platform that allows users to obtain licenses and manage royalties efficiently. Their services are tailored for a range of clients, from startups to established record labels, ensuring that they can navigate the intricacies of music licensing with ease. HFA is also known for its Rumblefish suite, which provides data, licensing, and royalty administration services, enabling clients to focus on their core business operations. With a robust database that connects music users and rightsholders, HFA plays a crucial role in ensuring that music creators receive the royalties they are owed. The company has maintained its relevance in the industry by continuously adapting to changes and supporting initiatives like the MLC (Mechanical Licensing Collective).

11. Global Music Rights

• Website: globalmusicrights.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $3.3B, October 2024
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: global-music-rights

Global Music Rights (GMR) is a music rights management company based in Los Angeles, California, established in 2013 by industry veteran Irving Azoff. GMR specializes in licensing services for public performances of musical works, primarily catering to businesses in the hospitality and entertainment sectors. The company offers blanket licenses, which allow clients to legally play a wide array of music without needing to negotiate individual agreements with each copyright holder. With a catalog that includes over 98,000 songs from prominent artists like Lizzo, Drake, and Bruce Springsteen, GMR provides a comprehensive solution for businesses looking to comply with copyright laws. The company emphasizes transparency and analytics, ensuring clients have access to detailed data regarding their music usage and royalties. GMR's commitment to advocating for music creators further distinguishes it in the competitive landscape of music licensing.

12. Marmoset

• Website: marmosetmusic.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Portland, Oregon, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 94%, Other 6%
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: marmoset

Marmoset is a music licensing agency based in Portland, Oregon, founded in 2010. The company specializes in custom music production, working closely with artists and composers to deliver curated music solutions tailored to the needs of businesses and organizations in creative industries. Marmoset's offerings include music licensing, custom song creation, and music curation, primarily serving clients in film, advertising, and media production. With a team of dedicated professionals, Marmoset emphasizes collaboration and creativity, ensuring that each project reflects the unique vision of its clients. The agency has built a reputation for its meticulous approach to music selection and production, making it a valuable resource for those seeking high-quality music for various applications.

13. Spirit Music Group

• Website: spiritmusicgroup.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $800.0M, March 2023
• Founded year: 1995
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: spirit-music-group

Spirit Music Group, founded in 1995 and based in New York City, is a private music publisher that specializes in music licensing. The company plays a crucial role in the entertainment industry by providing artists, producers, and businesses with the rights to use music in various projects. They are dedicated to protecting the interests of artists while facilitating licensing opportunities. Spirit Music Group boasts a roster that includes prominent artists such as Pete Townshend, Tim McGraw, and Salt N' Pepa, showcasing their involvement with high-profile talent. The company has recently secured significant funding, amounting to $800 million in March 2023, indicating a robust financial position and potential for growth in the music licensing market.

14. Soundstripe

• Website: soundstripe.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Nashville, Tennessee, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, United Kingdom (UK) 3%
• Latest funding: Series B, $9.0M, August 2022
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: soundstripe

Soundstripe, based in Nashville, Tennessee, is a music licensing platform that specializes in providing royalty-free music and sound effects tailored for video creators, filmmakers, and businesses. Founded in 2016, the company has built an extensive library of high-quality tracks, which includes contributions from Grammy-winning musicians. Soundstripe emphasizes hassle-free licensing, allowing users to access and license music easily for various projects, from social media content to traditional broadcast. The company has also introduced features like AI Song Editing, which allows users to manipulate tracks quickly without needing extensive audio engineering skills. With a workforce of around 76 employees and a significant focus on artist compensation, Soundstripe has issued over 10 million sync licenses, reflecting its active role in the music licensing industry. In 2022, the company secured $9 million in Series B funding, indicating investor confidence in its business model and growth potential.

15. Rumblefish/HFA

• Website: rumblefish.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Portland, Oregon, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: rumblefish

Rumblefish, a music rights management company based in Portland, Oregon, was founded in 1996 and operates as a private entity with a team of 18 employees. The company provides essential services such as music licensing, data management, and royalty administration, catering to businesses that utilize music in their operations. Rumblefish is known for its expertise in navigating the intricate world of music rights, ensuring compliance and streamlining processes for its clients. They have built strong relationships within the music and technology sectors, which enhances their ability to facilitate licensing and royalty administration. Notably, Rumblefish has partnered with major platforms like Facebook and Pinterest, showcasing their capability to manage music rights for significant digital experiences. Their involvement in various projects, including support for the GRAMMY Awards and collaborations with companies like LANDR and 7digital, further underscores their active participation in the music licensing industry.

16. Reel Muzik Werks

• Website: reelmuzikwerks.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Nashville, Tennessee, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: reel-muzik-werks

Reel Muzik Werks, founded in 2009 and based in Nashville, Tennessee, is a private music publishing company that specializes in rights management and creative services for artists and content creators. With a team of 11-50 employees, the company offers a range of services that include artist development, music supervision, and royalty administration. Reel Muzik Werks caters to clients across the music, film, and television industries, providing customized solutions to meet their unique needs. The company has established itself as a full-service independent music publisher, actively involved in music supervision for significant events, such as the Tournament of Roses Parade, where they served as the music supervisor. Their commitment to protecting creators' music and ensuring accurate royalty collection further solidifies their role in the music licensing space.

Music Licensing Insights: Key Companies in the US

Company	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Ownership
Sesac	Nashville, Tennessee, United States (USA)	201-500	1931	Private Equity
Concord	Nashville, Tennessee, United States (USA)	501-1000	1969	Corporate
Audiosocket	Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)	11-50	2007	Venture Capital
Music Reports, Inc	Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)	51-200	1995	Private Equity
Kobalt Music	New York, New York, United States (USA)	501-1000	2000	Private Equity
Downtown Music	New York, New York, United States (USA)	501-1000	2007	Corporate
Songtradr	Santa Monica, California, United States (USA)	201-500	2014	Corporate
Musicbed	Fort Worth, Texas, United States (USA)	11-50	2010	Private
Primary Wave	New York, New York, United States (USA)	11-50	2006	Private Equity
HFA/Rumblefish	New York, New York, United States (USA)	51-200	1927	Corporate
Global Music Rights	Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2013	Private Equity
Marmoset	Portland, Oregon, United States (USA)	11-50	2010	Private
Spirit Music Group	New York, New York, United States (USA)	11-50	1995	Private
Soundstripe	Nashville, Tennessee, United States (USA)	51-200	2016	Venture Capital
Rumblefish/HFA	Portland, Oregon, United States (USA)	11-50	1996	Private
Reel Muzik Werks	Nashville, Tennessee, United States (USA)	11-50	2009	Private

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