Legal Definitions - synchronization license

A synchronization license is a permission granted to reproduce and synchronize a copyrighted musical composition with visual images that are not covered by the musical work's copyright.

• A movie production company obtains a synchronization license to use a popular song in a scene of their film.
• A music video director obtains a synchronization license to use a specific song in their video and synchronize it with the visual images.

The examples illustrate how a synchronization license allows the licensee to use a copyrighted musical composition in a specific visual context, such as a movie or music video. Without this license, the use of the musical work would be considered copyright infringement. The synchronization license grants permission to use the musical work in a specific way, while still protecting the copyright owner's rights.