Pandora CloudCover includes Re:Sound coverage in every Canadian plan.
Playing music in your business isn’t as simple as pressing play.
Under Canada’s Copyright Act, public performances of music require permission — and payment — to the creators and rights holders.
That’s where Re:Sound comes in.
Pandora CloudCover makes compliance simple with one subscription that includes Re:Sound licensing for Canada (and U.S. PRO coverage) so you can stream ad-free music worry-free.
Explore fully licensed music for your business
Not yet a Pandora CloudCover customer? Here's what you need to know about what this organization is and what it does, so you can understand how Pandora CloudCover takes care of music performance fees so you don't have to.
What Is Re:Sound?
Re:Sound is Canada’s not-for-profit music licensing company that represents performers and record labels (the owners of the sound recording). Re:Sound aims to ensure these artists and music creators receive compensation for their performance rights.
Performing rights come into play when artists’ recorded music is played publicly in places like:
- Retail stores
- Restaurants
- Gyms and fitness studios
- Hotels, offices, and event venues
Even if the music you play isn’t Canadian, if it’s performed in Canada, Re:Sound can seek royalty collection.
How Re:Sound Differs from SOCAN
Canada has two performing rights organizations (PROs):
- Re:Sound – covers the performers and record companies (the sound recording).
- SOCAN – covers the composers, songwriters, and publishers (the musical composition).
To be free of claims from anyone regarding music performance fees, most businesses need both licenses. Ignoring one leaves a gap in coverage and opens the door to fines.
The Re:Sound Tariff Model
Determining what your Re:Sound budget isn't necessarily easy. Unlike many other PROs, Re:Sound uses a tariff system to set rates.
The company offers a tariffs page with a calculator that contains multiple questions, such as:
- What type of background music do you need?
- How many square feet is your business?
- How many days do you use music?
There are different calculators to help you understand how much different types of music will cost. Each calculator has a set of questions and a different set of fees. There is no crossover among calculators.
Fees can range from a few dollars per day to higher event-based tariffs. Calculators on Re:Sound’s website can estimate costs, but the process can be complex and fees may vary month to month.
What Happens if You Don't Pay?
Re:Sound actively enforces its rights.
They use directories and public databases to find businesses and routinely send invoices and follow-up letters. Failure to respond can lead to time-consuming, complicated, and unwanted obligations such as:
- Escalating demands and late fees
- Court action and legal costs
- Damage to your business reputation
Even small businesses can face significant penalties.
A Better Approach: Play Pandora CloudCover
We offer another way. At Pandora CloudCover, we have an entire library of music that is appropriate for businesses like yours.
Pandora CloudCover simplifies the process.
- One subscription covers both SOCAN and Re:Sound for the music we provide.
- Ad-free, business-ready stations curated for retail, hospitality, fitness, and more.
- Stream from an easy app with remote scheduling and messaging.
With Pandora CloudCover, your Canadian business stays legal and worry-free with a single, predictable monthly fee. Try it free for 14 days. Terms and conditions apply.
Quick FAQs
Who needs a Re:Sound license?
Any Canadian business playing recorded music in public — whether from a playlist, CD, or streaming service.
Does Re:Sound licensing cover SOCAN?
No. Re:Sound covers performers and labels. SOCAN covers composers and publishers. Both are required for full compliance regarding performance of music at a business establishment.
Can I use my own collection of music, Spotify, Apple Music, or other consumer music services instead?
No. You need a music service and licenses specifically covering a commercial business establishment.
How does Pandora CloudCover help?
Our subscription includes the necessary Re:Sound and SOCAN coverage for the music we stream, so you don’t need contracts with multiple organizations.
References
Copyright Act (R.S.C., 1985, c. C-42). Government of Canada Justice Laws Website.
What We Do. Re:Sound.
SOCAN Licensing: What Canadian Businesses Need to Know. Pandora CloudCover.
Tariffs. Re:Sound.
Please note this article is here for informational purposes and is not legal advice or a complete recitation of applicable law, or the rights and obligations of any organizations mentioned above.
