When Licensing Falls Short: Why Your Music Video Provider Matters

Two phones with music videos coming out of them

Not long ago, one of the major players in the music video space lost their licensing rights. Venues that relied on them were left in a tough spot, scrambling to adjust programming, dealing with the frustration, and wondering what to do next.

This isn’t just a cautionary tale. It’s a reminder that music video licensing is more than just a legal box to check – it’s a trust contract between your venue and your entertainment provider.

When Licensing Breaks, So Does Your Experience

Here’s what happens when your provider loses their licensing agreements:

  • Your screens go dark, or worse – illegal
    Music videos without proper licensing can’t legally be played in commercial spaces. You’re either left without content or risking serious copyright violations.
  • Your guest experience takes a hit
    A well-crafted music video environment isn’t just background noise, it sets your vibe. When it’s gone, so is your edge.
  • You’re exposed legally and financially
    Playing unlicensed content can lead to fines, cease-and-desist orders, or even lawsuits. No one wants that hanging over their weekend crowd.
Bar scene with digital signage

Why Control Play is Different

We’ve always believed that compliance isn’t optional – it’s foundational. That’s why:

  • We work directly with major music publishers and rights organizations.
  • Our licensing is purpose-built for public, commercial environments like yours.
  • We update and curate playlists daily, so you’re never behind.
  • If a song isn’t licensed, it doesn’t go in. Period.

Beyond Compliance: Why It All Matters

We wrote recently about how licensed music videos aren’t just safe, they’re powerful. They transform guest experiences, extend dwell time, and create social media moments that boost your brand.

If you missed it, read that piece here

But now you know the other side of the story too: when licensing fails, your guests notice.

Make the Safer, Smarter Choice

The right provider offers consistency, peace of mind, and protection. If you’re using a service that suddenly can’t deliver, or worse, is putting your business at risk, it’s time to switch.

Control Play offers:

  • Fully licensed, compliant music video programming
  • Curated playlists for every vibe and time of day
  • Friendly, fast support when you need it

Because your guests deserve more than a blank screen – and you deserve better than uncertainty.

Learn more about licensing

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With Control Play, you can easily enhance your brand experience to drive loyalty and revenue.