How to Obtain a License for Using AC/DC Songs in Your Videos

Introduction
Using AC/DC's timeless rock classics in your video content can significantly enhance your project, provided that you have the necessary permissions. This article guides you through the process of obtaining a license to use AC/DC songs in your videos.

Understanding the Licensing Process

The first step in obtaining a license to use AC/DC's songs in your videos is to understand the licensing process and who holds the rights to these copyrighted songs. The rights are typically divided into:

Performance Rights: The right to play or perform the songs publicly, including in videos. Sync (Synchronization) Rights: The right to synchronize the songs with visual content, which is crucial for video use.

The licensing requirements vary based on the specific use of the song within your video and the intended distribution of the content.

Identifying the Publishers

To get a license, you must identify the appropriate publishing rights holders. Here’s how to do it:

Research the Publishing Rights Holder

For AC/DC, the publishing rights are primarily held by:

Warner/Chappell Music: This is the rights holder for many of AC/DC's songs.

Warner/Chappell Music can be contacted to inquire about licensing. More detailed information can often be found on their official website or through the official record labels associated with the bands and songs.

Contacting the Publisher

The next step is to contact the publishing rights holder. They will provide you with the necessary information to proceed with licensing. This may include:

Legal agreements: Providing specific terms and conditions for using the song. Fees: In most cases, there is a fee to use the song in your video. The exact amount may vary depending on your intended use and distribution. Mechanisms for payment: Established ways to pay for the license. Use requirements: guidelines on how to use the song in your video to avoid copyright infringement.

Providing Details and Submitting an Application

All that remains is to provide the essential details about your video project and submit a formal application. Typical information required may include:

Title and duration: Specify the title and the duration of your video. Format of video: Indicate whether you are creating a YouTube video, a music video, or a film, etc. Distribution plans: Details on where your video will be published and distributed, including platforms like YouTube, Vimeo, or social media. Target audience: The intended audience or demographic for your video.

Conclusion

Using AC/DC's songs in your videos can add significant value, but it is essential to follow the proper licensing procedures to avoid legal issues. By identifying the correct publishing rights holder and thoroughly understanding the requirements, you can legally use these timeless classics in your content. Remember, each use case will have unique requirements, so always consult the official channels for the most accurate and up-to-date information.