CPB Secures Music Licensing Deals for Public Media

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, October 27, 2025 | 2:55pm CT

Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB)

The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) has finalized new multi-year agreements with all five major performing rights organizations -- ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, the Harry Fox Agency, and Global Music Rights -- ensuring uninterrupted music use across public media through December 31, 2027.

The renewed deals cover the public performance rights needed for stations to broadcast music on air and online, continuing CPB's long-standing role as negotiator and administrator of systemwide licensing on behalf of more than 500 public media stations. By managing these agreements collectively, CPB saves stations millions of dollars annually in licensing fees and administrative costs.

"In everything we do, we are guided by our mission to strengthen and advance public media's ability to serve the American people," said Patricia Harrison, President and CEO of CPB. "At a time when so many stations are struggling to survive following congressional rescission of federal funding, CPB is proud to lift this financial burden and ensure that audiences nationwide can continue to experience the music that connects us."

In addition, CPB announced it will cover the first two years of a forthcoming SoundExchange agreement, securing digital performance rights for public radio through the end of 2027.

The milestone coincides with Public Radio Music Day on October 29, a national celebration recognizing the power of music to bring audiences together through shared stories and sound.