If you are looking to use a popular Christian song in your church service, video project, or commercial production, you will likely need to interact with the EMI Christian Music Group (CMG) publishing division. Now part of the larger Capitol Christian Music Group, this organization manages the rights to a vast catalog of worship music and contemporary Christian hits. Understanding how to navigate their licensing process ensures that you remain legally compliant while supporting the artists who create the music.
What Is EMI CMG Publishing?
EMI CMG Publishing is one of the largest and most influential music publishers in the Christian music industry. They represent thousands of songwriters and a massive library of songs used in churches and media worldwide. Because they manage the intellectual property of these songs, they are the primary point of contact for anyone wishing to reproduce, perform, or synchronize their music with visual media.
In recent years, the company has integrated more closely with Capitol Christian Music Group. When searching for contact details or licensing portals, you will often find that the resources are hosted under the Capitol CMG brand. This is a normal part of the corporate structure, and the licensing process remains streamlined for users looking for specific EMI-managed titles.
When Do You Need a License?
Many people assume that purchasing a CD or a digital download gives them the right to use the music however they wish. However, a purchase only grants you the right to listen to the music privately. You generally need a specific license if you plan to do any of the following:
- Streaming: If you are broadcasting a church service or event online that includes copyrighted music.
- Synchronization: If you are adding a song to a video, film, advertisement, or YouTube content.
- Mechanical Use: If you are recording a cover version of a song and plan to distribute it physically or digitally.
- Print: If you want to print lyrics or sheet music in a bulletin, songbook, or on a website.
How to Contact the Publishing Division
The most efficient way to reach the publishing team is through their official digital licensing portal. This system is designed to handle high volumes of requests and provides a structured way for you to submit your project details. Most modern music publishers prefer digital submissions over phone calls or physical mail to ensure accuracy.
Using the Online Licensing Portal
Most requests are handled through the Capitol CMG Licensing website. Here, you can select the type of license you need, such as synchronization for video or mechanical for recordings. The portal will guide you through a series of questions regarding your intended use, the duration of the clip, and the territory where the project will be distributed.
Direct Contact for Custom Requests
For complex projects or major film and television placements, you may need to speak with a licensing representative directly. You can often find specific email addresses for the licensing department on their corporate website. When emailing, be sure to include the song title, the writer’s name, and a detailed description of your project to speed up the response time.
Steps to Secure a Music License
Securing a license may seem daunting, but following a clear set of steps can make the process much easier. It is important to start this process early, as approval can sometimes take several weeks depending on the complexity of the request.
1. Identify the Rights Holders
Before reaching out, confirm that the song is actually managed by EMI CMG or Capitol CMG. You can check the copyright notice on the sheet music or use search tools provided by performing rights organizations like ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC. Often, a song has multiple writers, meaning you may need permission from more than one publisher.
2. Determine the License Type
Be specific about what you need. If you are making a video for YouTube, you need a synchronization license. If you are making 500 copies of a CD for your church, you need a mechanical license. Knowing exactly what you need prevents delays and ensures you are quoted the correct fee.
3. Submit Your Request
Fill out the application form on the licensing portal. Provide as much detail as possible. For video projects, be prepared to describe the scene where the music will be used. For recordings, have your estimated distribution numbers ready.
4. Review the Quote and Pay
Once the publishing team reviews your request, they will provide a quote. Fees can vary widely based on the popularity of the song and the scale of your project. After you agree to the terms and pay the fee, you will receive a formal license agreement.
Understanding Third-Party Administrators
Sometimes, EMI CMG uses third-party companies to manage certain types of rights. For example, many churches use CCLI (Christian Copyright Licensing International) to handle their congregational singing and printing needs. If your use falls under the standard activities of a church service, check if your CCLI license already covers what you are trying to do.
For mechanical licenses for cover songs, services like Songfile or Music Services often act as intermediaries. These platforms can sometimes provide a faster turnaround for standard requests than contacting the publisher directly. Always check the song’s administration details to see if a third party is authorized to issue the license on behalf of the publisher.
Common Licensing Terms to Know
When dealing with music publishing, you might encounter technical terms that are helpful to understand. Knowing these can help you communicate more effectively with licensing agents.
- Public Domain: Music that is no longer under copyright protection. Most modern Christian music is NOT in the public domain.
- Master Rights: The rights to the specific sound recording. This is different from publishing rights, which cover the song’s composition (lyrics and melody).
- Term: The length of time your license is valid.
- Territory: The geographic area where you are allowed to use the music (e.g., “United States” or “Worldwide”).
Conclusion
Acquiring the proper permission to use music from the EMI CMG catalog is a vital step for any professional or ministry-related project. By using the official licensing portals and understanding the different types of rights involved, you can ensure your project is legally sound. Remember to plan ahead and provide detailed information to make the process as smooth as possible. For more guidance on navigating digital services and professional resources, explore our other articles on copyright and media management.