What is SESAC Music Rights on YouTube?
Learn what SESAC is and how it impacts YouTube content, protecting music rights for songwriters and publishers in the digital era.
If you’ve ever seen a message on YouTube saying, “This video contains content from SESAC,” you might wonder what it means. SESAC is one of the main performing rights organizations (PROs) in the United States, alongside ASCAP and BMI. These organizations ensure that songwriters, composers, and music publishers are compensated for the use of their music.
SESAC’s Role in Music Licensing
SESAC specializes in licensing for performances, ensuring that artists like Adele, Bob Dylan, and thousands of other creators receive royalties when their music is played publicly. This includes digital platforms like YouTube, where videos featuring music must comply with copyright laws. The dispute involving SESAC often leads to videos being blocked or restricted, especially in cases where proper licenses haven’t been obtained.
Why Are Some Videos Blocked?
If you notice that a video is blocked in your country or region due to SESAC content, it’s because the video likely contains music that falls under SESAC’s licensing agreements. Without the proper permissions, YouTube is required to block or mute the content to avoid copyright infringement penalties.
Impact on Creators and Viewers
For content creators, it’s essential to ensure that any music used in their videos is properly licensed. SESAC’s involvement is a reminder of the importance of copyright in the music industry, particularly as more creators utilize platforms like YouTube. For viewers, this sometimes means restricted access to popular songs and videos, depending on the licensing situation.
