Restaurants, Bars Consider Turning Off Music as Licensing Fees Skyrocket.

The article discusses the evolving landscape of Performing Rights Organizations (PROs) in the United States, highlighting their role in ensuring songwriters and music publishers are compensated for public performances of their work. Historically dominated by three major PROs—ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC—the rise of streaming has led to increased revenue and the emergence of new organizations, resulting in higher licensing costs for businesses such as bars and restaurants. Many small business owners express concerns over the financial burden and lack of transparency in the licensing process, while songwriters defend the necessity of PROs for their livelihoods. The article also mentions technological innovations, such as Audoo, which aim to improve tracking and compensation for songwriters by accurately logging music played in public venues. [Extracted from the article]