Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to many of the common questions regarding the content on this site. Unable to find what you’re looking for? Please reach out directly: Contact

Licensing

Is the music in the store Royalty-Free and what does that mean?

Yes! The music in my online licensing store is “Royalty-Free”. However, there are a few things I’d like to clear up about what this term means.

What is “Royalty-Free” music?

“Royalty-Free” music is an industry term that refers to music that can be licensed for perpetuity (forever) for one single fee.  There is no limit on the number of copies that can be synced with your video, video game, podcast, or other project. Hoorah!

On the other hand, “Royalty-Free” music does not mean that the music is licensed without royalties. What the…???

I know…I hate this term and that’s why you won’t find it anywhere else on my site except for here, in order to provide an explanation.  A “Royalty-Free” music license allows the licensee the rights to sync the licensed music with his/her project in perpetuity by paying a single, upfront fee. All of the tracks on this site fit this mold and are priced at under $50 per license. This type of music is also registered with a Performance Rights Organization (PRO) that collects performance royalties for the composer.

What constitutes a performance?

A “performance” of a “Royalty-Free” soundtrack happens essentially anytime the song is played in a public setting – i.e. Youtube, radio, television, anywhere on the internet, etc.

Wait! I have to pay this guy every time someone watches my Youtube video?

No! Here’s the good news.

Who pays for performance royalties?

Performance royalties are paid for by the broadcasting network and are usually covered under a “blanket license,” which the network purchases every year in order to cover licensed music that is broadcast across it’s channel. Some examples of broadcasting networks?

  • Youtube
  • NPR
  • PBS
  • NBC
  • ABC
  • TNT
  • You get the point…

This means that you can use the music in your videos and other projects without paying me another dime but, I’ll still receive a performance royalty from the broadcasting network that is airing your work. Win-win!

What does “non-exclusive” mean?

As it pertains to licensing and downloading instrumentals on this site, the term “non-exclusive” refers to a license that may be granted to multiple parties. Simply put, this means that others may license and download the product as well.

The downloaded products are not being exclusively licensed to the purchaser and they will be available to others. If you need a soundtrack exclusively for your project, you’ll need an exclusive license which may be negotiated, depending on your needs. For more information, please fill in the custom quote form with the information for your project and the needed audio asset(s). Get a quote

What is a cue sheet?

A cue sheet is a document that is filed with a Performance Rights Organization(PRO) to ensure that a composer is paid for a public performance of his/her work. The document contains the title of the work, the production, time, and manner in which the audio is being used, as well as the composer and publisher’s information.

All of the musical works available on this site have been registered with Broadcast Music Inc.(BMI). If you license a musical work from this site and use the work in a television or radio broadcast, film, and/or advertisement, a cue sheet must be filed with BMI.

You can download a cue sheet template here: Cue Sheet Template

Submit cue sheets here: Submit Cue Sheet

Store

Can I return the music for a refund?

I’m sorry, but we will not be able to refund a download once purchase has been made, unless there is a technical issue with the file. If you’re unsure about how a particular audio asset will fit into your production, please download the personal use license first. Its free! This will provide you with a high resolution mp3 for testing.

Do I need an account to purchase music?

Yes, you’ll need to register an account to purchase music…but it’s super easy and fast! You can take care of it right on the checkout page!

All you need to provide is your name and a valid e-mail address. You’ll then choose a username and password. That’s it! Once your account is validated, you’ll be able to proceed with your purchase.

Once you have an account, you may login by clicking the “account” link in the navigation menu or by choosing “Login” on the checkout page. When logged in, you will be able to make purchases, view your past downloads, download receipts, and modify your address/password.

How soon will I receive my download link after purchase?

Immediately! Once payment confirmation has been received, an automated e-mail will be sent to the address you supplied with your purchase and will include your receipt as well as a link to download your file(s).

What rights do I have when I purchase music from the jimk.com store?

Each soundtrack featured in the store includes a non-exclusive, commercial sync license. This license permits unlimited syncs with various mediums, such as premium/ad driven apps, Youtube/Vimeo videos, podcasts, television and radio broadcasts…even use in major motion pictures.

It does not include a mechanical license. A mechanical license would be required in order to put the music on an album or other audio work and sell it to the masses. This is not permitted with any license on this site. The soundtracks here must be synced with a video, video game, of other content and can only be used as background music.

A full list of uses, as well as the official license may be found in the “commercial” column featured on the licensing page. If you have any questions pertaining to the rights granted by this license, please send us a message .