ASCAP / BMI - Who is responsible?

[Derby Dude]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? New York

I skate / with a small roller derby team that has been contacted by ASCAP regarding licensing for derby events. The contracts with the roller rinks we skate at specify that they are responsible for providing any pre-game / half-time music through thier own DJ.

The venues that we contract with DO have licenses in place with ASCAP & BMI.

Would the roller derby team have to pay ASCAP / BMI as well?

Thanks!

[FlyingRon]

Depends what the agreement the venue has with the PROs. If they are not covered for a your sporting event, then as far as the music is concerned another license is required (ASCAP seems to list skating rink and Roller Derby as separate licenses). If your contract with the venue says they'll do it, then get them to do it. That won't keep you from incurring the wrath of ASCAP if they don't.