This guide covers why you need a license from the Musical Copyright Society Nigeria (MCSN), its benefits, and how to get one.
As a DJ in Nigeria’s vibrant music scene, understanding the importance of licensing and how to obtain it is crucial for your career.
Obtaining an MCSN license is not just a legal requirement; it’s a crucial step in building a sustainable and successful DJ career in Nigeria. By securing your license, you demonstrate your commitment to ethical practices, support the rights of music creators, and contribute to the growth of Nigeria’s music industry.
As a licensed DJ, you become an integral part of the music ecosystem, helping to nurture a vibrant and sustainable musical culture. Embrace the importance of MCSN licensing and embark on a rewarding journey as a respected professional in Nigeria’s dynamic music scene.
LICENCED & RECOGNIZED DJs in NIGERIA
From radio DJs to wedding DJs and all the way up to festival headliners, anyone playing someone else’s music live is required to pay royalties to the artists. Here is a list of Recognized and Licensed Nigerian Djs:
FULL NAME | STAGE NAME | STATE OF RESIDENCE | DJAN REG. I.D | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Abass Akeem Juwon | DJ AK | Ogun | DJAN0003831 | @djak247 |
Abdul- Rasaq Abiola | Hon. Dj Bammy D | lagos | DJAN03909 | djbammyd |
Abdullahi Abubakar | DJ Serdic | Kano | DJAN0003684 | |
Abdullahi Hassan | DJ WALEED | Kano | DJAN0003668 | @iamdj_waleed |
Adamsom Saidi Abiodun | DJ Adamz | Ogun | DJAN 0003813 | undisputable_dj_adarmz |
Adamu Haruna Adam | DJ Koolbabz | Kano | DJAN0003674 | @dj_koolbabz |
Adebayo Hammed | Dj Cool Salam | Ogun | DJAN0258 | |
Adebayo Rafiu Remilekun | Dj Holy Spirit | Ogun | DJAN0254 | |
Adebisi Enoch Agbana | DJ Bishop | Kwara State | 3575 | @djbishop |
Adedire Kehinde Rabiu | Dj Nms | Lagos | DJAN1010 | @djnmsdaprince01 |
FULL NAME | STAGE NAME | STATE OF RESIDENCE | DJAN REG. I.D |
Why DJs Need an MCSN License
- Legal Compliance: Avoid copyright infringement by legally playing copyrighted music at public events.
- Fair Compensation: Support music creators by ensuring they receive royalties for their work.
- Professionalism: Enhance your credibility with clients and event organizers.
- Access to Music: Gain the right to play a vast repertoire of songs from various artists and genres.
- Industry Support: Contribute to the growth and sustainability of the Nigerian music industry.
- Career Opportunities: Access premium events and venues that require licensed DJs.
- Networking: Connect with industry professionals, potentially leading to collaborations and career growth.
- Copyright Awareness: Become an ambassador for respecting intellectual property rights.
- Personal Protection: Safeguard your own original mixes and remixes.
Benefits of MCSN Licensing
- Legal Authorization: Operate within copyright law boundaries.
- Ethical Practice: Uphold your responsibility to compensate artists.
- Diverse Repertoire: Access a wide range of music to cater to various audience preferences.
- Professional Credibility: Stand out as a responsible and legally compliant DJ.
- Industry Networking: Join a community of licensed professionals.
- Cultural Contribution: Play a role in preserving Nigerian musical heritage.
How can DJs Get a Music Licence?
Through partnership, members of DJAN are automatically Licensed by MCSN, meaning you can obtain and enjoy the highly discounted Licence through DJAN instead of paying a huge amount for your DJ Licence annually.
Complete the form below to begin your DJAN membership registration and MCSN Dj Licensing.
What Happens If a DJ Performs Without a Licence?
Since DJs are legally required to license the songs they use in their live performances and DJ mixes, performing without a license can result in a lawsuit for copyright infringement.
Yes, you may have tons of DJ friends who perform without a license weekly and never once had trouble with the law. But copyright infringement lawsuits exist, and they can not only take a toll on your finances but put an end to your DJ career overnight! Flushing all of your hard work down the drain just to avoid paying a few naira in licensing costs is just not worth it.
The best way to make sure you’re not getting on the nerves of a fellow artist or music publisher is to be very thorough about licensing the songs you use in your DJ sets and mixes. If your manager or employer is taking care of the licensing for you, make sure he or she is doing a good job.
About MCSN
The Musical Copyright Society Nigeria (MCSN) is approved to operate as a Collective Management Organization (CMO) by the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) for the licensing of Musical works and sound recordings in Nigeria. We administer related rights to Copyright by negotiating, granting licenses, collecting and distributing royalties.
MCSN is responsible for managing the rights of all creative workers, including the Performers and Composers that end up on your DJ sets and mixes.
Our purpose is to ensure that this sum is given to the people who deserve it, i.e., the copyright holders. Copyright holders include not only the artist who created the song but also the publishing company that released it, as well as any additional composers and performers that may own a percentage of the song.