Appendix (Global Licensing Guide): Licensing Request Templates
Use these templates as starting points when contacting music publishers, record labels, or licensing agencies. Always be polite, concise, and include all relevant details in your request. Adjust the placeholders (in brackets) to your situation.
Template 1: Request to Publisher for Lyric Translation Permission
Subject: Request for Lyric Translation License – “[Song Title]” (Original by [Artist])
Dear [Publisher Name] Licensing Department,
I am writing to request permission to create and release a [Language] translation of the song “[Song Title],” originally written by [Songwriter(s)] and performed by [Original Artist]. I understand that [Publisher Name] represents the publishing rights to this composition (as per STIM/ASCAP database).
Proposed Use: I plan to record the song with new [Language] lyrics that I have translated, and to release it as a cover single on streaming platforms (Spotify, Apple Music, etc.) and as a music video on YouTube. The translated version will be titled “[Translated Title]” and will credit the original songwriters. I have attached a copy of my proposed lyrics in [Language] along with a literal back-translation to English for your reference.
Territory & Distribution: I would like to distribute this translated cover worldwide, primarily digitally. (No physical CDs are planned, but if that changes, I will secure mechanical licenses as required.) I will ensure that all necessary mechanical royalties are paid (via [my distributor/NCB/etc]).
This request is specifically for your permission to use and publicly release the new lyric adaptation. If granted, I am happy to have the new translation registered with your organization so that the original composers receive proper credit and share in any royalties. I am not seeking any share of the publishing; my intent is simply to perform the song in [Language] legally and respectfully.
Acknowledgment: The translated release will clearly credit the original songwriters [and publisher] and note that the lyrics were translated with permission.
Could you please advise on the steps to obtain this license? If there is a formal application or a fee, I am willing to comply promptly. Thank you very much for your time and consideration. I greatly admire this song and wish to bring it to a [Language]-speaking audience legally and respectfully.
Sincerely,
[Your Name][Your Contact Information][Your address or PRO member number, if applicable]
Template 2: Request to Record Label for Remix/Master Use Permission
Subject: License Request – Remix of “[Original Song]” by [Original Artist]
Dear [Label Name] Licensing Team,
I am an independent producer/DJ interested in creating an official remix of “[Original Song]” by [Original Artist]. I’m reaching out to request a Master Use License and any necessary clearance to incorporate elements of the original recording in a remix.
Details of Original:
Song: “[Original Song]”
Artist: [Original Artist]Album (if applicable): [Album Name, Year]Label: [Label Name]
Remix Plan: I intend to use the original vocal track and portions of the instrumental from “[Original Song]” and produce a [genre, e.g. “dance/EDM”] remix approximately [X] minutes long. The remix will not alter the lyrics or fundamental melody, but will add new instrumentation and tempo changes. The title would be “[Original Song] ([Your Name] Remix).”
Intended Release: I would like to release this remix on digital platforms (Spotify, Apple Music, etc.) and potentially for radio play. I am open to releasing it as an official remix under your terms.
Request: Could you please inform me of the conditions under which [Label Name] might grant a license for this remix? Specifically:
- Are there licensing fees or royalty split arrangements for an independent remix release?
- Do you require approval of the final remix before licensing?
- Would I also need to obtain publisher permission for this remix?
Thank you for your time and consideration. I appreciate your help and look forward to the possibility of working together.
Sincerely,
[Your Name] (Producer/DJ [Your Artist Name])
[Your Contact Info][Link to your portfolio or previous work]
Template 3: Contacting a Mechanical Rights Society (e.g. NCB/MCPS) for Physical Release License
Subject: Mechanical License Application – Cover of “[Song]” for Physical Release
Hello,
I am planning to manufacture a physical release that includes a cover version of the song “[Song]” originally by [Original Artist]. I would like to obtain the necessary mechanical license for this in advance.
Details:
Cover Song: “[Song]” (cover version performed by me, [Your Artist Name])
Original Songwriters: [Composer/Author Names]Format: [Number] CDs/vinyl to be produced.
Territory: [Country/ies]Retail: Price [e.g. 100 SEK per CD]
I understand that [Society Name, e.g. NCB] handles mechanical licensing for this territory. Could you guide me through the process? Specifically:
- License fee rate (per unit or percentage).
- Forms or portals to use for declaration.
- Payment instructions (advance or post-sale reporting).
I will credit the original songwriters in the CD liner notes. Please let me know what steps are needed. Thank you for your assistance.
Sincerely,
[Your Name][Your Address][Your Contact Info][Society Member Number, if any]
By using these templates and the information in this guide, you can confidently navigate licensing of covers, remixes, translations, and more. When in doubt – always ask for permission. Rights holders and societies are there to help you legally share music with the world.
Sources: Avvo, Riksdagen, Lawline, Soundrop and other cited references throughout this guide.
