Music Blocked? This Video Contains Content From SESAC.

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Post on Feb 10, 2025

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Music Blocked? This Video Contains Content From SESAC

So, you've uploaded a video, and it's been blocked because it "contains content from SESAC." Frustrating, right? This article will explain why this happens, what SESAC is, and what you can do to avoid future copyright issues.

Understanding SESAC

SESAC (Society of European Stage Authors and Composers) is a Performing Rights Organization (PRO). What does that mean? Essentially, SESAC licenses the public performance of music. They represent songwriters and music publishers, collecting royalties whenever their music is played publicly. This includes, but isn't limited to:

• Online videos: YouTube, Vimeo, etc.
• Radio broadcasts: Both terrestrial and online radio stations.
• Live performances: Concerts, bars, restaurants, etc.

If you use music in your video that's under SESAC's license, and you haven't obtained the proper permission, they'll flag it for copyright infringement. This often results in a content ID claim, leading to your video being blocked, muted, or even removed.

Why does SESAC claim my video?

SESAC uses sophisticated technology to identify copyrighted music in videos uploaded to platforms like YouTube. If their system detects music they represent, they'll automatically issue a claim. This claim isn't necessarily a personal attack; it's simply their automated system doing its job to protect their clients' intellectual property.

Avoiding SESAC Copyright Claims: Best Practices

Preventing future copyright issues is much easier than resolving them after the fact. Here's how to stay on the right side of the law:

1. Use Royalty-Free Music:

This is the simplest and safest solution. Numerous websites offer royalty-free music specifically licensed for use in videos and other media. These often come with different licenses offering various levels of usage rights, so make sure to review them carefully. Look for music labeled as "Creative Commons" or "public domain," understanding the specifics of each license.

2. Create Your Own Music:

If you're musically inclined, composing your own soundtrack gives you complete control and avoids copyright issues entirely. It adds a unique touch to your videos and showcases your talents!

3. Obtain Permission Directly:

For specific tracks, reaching out to the copyright holder (the songwriter or publisher) for permission is ideal. This might involve paying a licensing fee. You'll need to thoroughly research the copyright ownership of the music you want to use.

4. Use Music with a Creative Commons License:

Many artists release their music under Creative Commons licenses. These licenses allow for usage, often with stipulations like attribution. Carefully examine the license terms to ensure your video usage complies. Note that not all Creative Commons licenses allow for commercial use.

5. Check Your Video's Audio Carefully:

Before uploading, use audio analysis tools to ensure you aren't unintentionally using copyrighted music. Even short snippets can trigger a claim. Be thorough and mindful of background music or incidental audio.

What to Do If Your Video is Already Blocked

If your video has already been flagged, don't panic. You might be able to resolve the issue by:

• Muting the audio: If the copyright issue is solely due to the audio track, muting it may resolve the claim. However, it might significantly impact the viewer experience.
• Replacing the audio: This is often the best approach. Substitute the offending track with royalty-free music or your own composition.
• Dispute the claim (carefully): This is a more complex path. Only attempt this if you have strong evidence that you have the rights to use the music (i.e., a license agreement).

Remember: Always respect copyright law. Understanding copyright and taking preventative measures are crucial for content creators. Following these steps will significantly reduce the chances of your videos being flagged due to content from SESAC or other PROs.