In which cases can I enter into a contract?

If you use music permanently, such as letting a radio play at a hairdresser’s or playing back music from a CD in a retail shop. Notify us of the music use. Best to do so in our Online Portal, and...

I have given notice of termination of my contract, why has it not been ended immediately?

The actual end date of the contract depends on the notice period. It is best if you check your documents how long the notice period is in your case. If there are still any open issues, please...

How does GEMA know where and how often my works were used?

There are various ways and means to find out. Organisers of live events are, for example, obliged to submit a playlist (setlist) after the event. In the broadcasting sector (TV and radio), the...

How does GEMA know where and how often my works were used?

There are various ways and means to find out. Organisers of live events are, for example, obliged to submit a playlist (setlist) after the event. In the broadcasting sector (TV and radio), the...

What are royalties in the music business?

If your works are used, you, the creator or publisher, will receive payments; they are also known as royalties. In order to receive such royalties, you assign the exploitation rights for your...

When does GEMA membership make sense for me?

We always look forward to welcoming new members. Before you decided to become a member, you should ensure that a membership makes economic sense to you as a creator. This is the case if your own...

Which are the most important usage categories?

Film performance rights and film synchronisation rights (to a limited extent) Statutory remuneration rights such as what is known as hardware levy and blank media levy (blank tape remuneration)...

Which are the most important usage categories?

Film performance rights and film synchronisation rights (to a limited extent) Statutory remuneration rights such as what is known as hardware levy and blank media levy (blank tape remuneration)...

How can I prove that I am the creator?

By sending a letter to your own address with a sound recording or the music score of your work. By means of the post stamp everyone can check when the work has been dispatched. Important: Do not...

Which categories are paid out? Which belong to performing rights, broadcasting rights and mechanical rights?

These categories belong to the performing rights: International income distribution (sister organisations) A AR Concerts of serious music of all types (E) Serious music direct accounting (net...

Which rights do I assign to GEMA with the Deed of Assignment?

You assign to us as a trustee all rights in your works you are currently entitled to and those accruing, devolving, redevolving to you or otherwise acquired by you during the term of this Deed for...

Which rights do I assign to GEMA with the Deed of Assignment?

You assign to us as a trustee all rights in your works you are currently entitled to and those accruing, devolving, redevolving to you or otherwise acquired by you during the term of this Deed for...

Can I also upload the entire score of a film and a radio play?

If a soundfile only contains one work, the score can be uploaded in summary. If individual tracks are also used in other productions (e.g. series), we recommend that you upload several files.

I would like to upload music on a video platform such as YouTube or Twitch. What do I need to consider?

Do you want to use music on YouTube or Twitch? Here’s everything you need to know. First things first: It is easier than you may think, especially if you use music for personal purposes on the...

How can I add details to sound recordings for my work?

Information can only be added to sound recordings by GEMA members who are direct participants in the works, and/or by their legal successors or authorised representatives. The easiest way to add...

Where can I view details on my payouts?

You can access detailed breakdowns (individual statements and usage statements) in the free online service GEMA download. Individual statements = how much is the pay-out amount per work Usage...

GEMA contacts for customer complaints