Navigating the Music Licensing Process

Recorded On: 06/19/2024

The world of music licensing can be daunting, with a maze of legalities, questions, potential pitfalls and frustration. Join us for this insightful webinar as we demystify the intricate world of music licensing for exhibitions and events, straight from BMI – Broadcast Music Inc. You’ll gain clarity and a deeper understanding of the complexities of this legal landscape, delving into the nuances of Copyright Law and how it intersects with public music performance at your events. Leave with actionable steps to secure your music efficiently and legally.

After participating in this session, you will be able to:

Determine who is responsible for obtaining music licenses
Identify where to obtain music licenses and what they cost
Obtain free resources for ongoing help with music licensing

IAEE webinars are free to members and available to non-members for $49. Eligible to earn 1 Clock Hour.

Dan Spears

Vice President, Industry Relations and Licensing

Broadcast Music Inc. (BMI)

Dan Spears is the Vice President of Industry Relations and Licensing at Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI). In his capacity as Vice President, he works closely with BMI’s Licensing Management Team to create strategic, value-driven sponsorships and customer events. He serves as a pivotal bridge between the company’s Licensing, Creative and Business Affairs Teams and supports BMI’s Legal and Government Relations Department to promote synergies at the state legislative levels.

In this role, Mr. Spears continues to develop new customer initiatives and strategic partnerships that feature BMI songwriter performances and help educate key accounts while providing new sources of revenue for affiliates and licensees. He also remains instrumental to BMI’s close work with the National Association of Broadcasters, the National Restaurant Association, the American Hotel & Lodging Association, the Council of State Restaurant Associations, the Radio Advertising Bureau, and the International Society of Hotel Associations.

Mr. Spears has a long-standing history with BMI dating back to 1988 when he joined as a broadcast manager. He was promoted to Regional Director in 1993, to Senior Director in 1995, and then to Assistant Vice President in 2000. As Assistant Vice President of Key Accounts within the Licensing Department at BMI, Mr. Spears was responsible for managing the day-to-day activities of the Licensing Department’s ten field representatives. He also worked with the management team to develop new customer initiatives, marketing campaigns and helps define policies, procedures and systems to streamline processes for BMI and its customers.

Prior to BMI, Mr. Spears worked as a Morning News Anchor and Talk Show Host at WCBM-AM in Baltimore. Spears holds a BA from Bowdoin College.