How Licensing Works On Mixcloud

How Mixcloud’s Licensing Actually Works

Mixcloud’s whole pitch is: “We pay the royalties for you.” 

When you upload a DJ mix or radio show to Mixcloud, you don’t need to get individual mechanical or master licenses yourself. Why? Because Mixcloud has blanket licensing deals with the big players:

• Major labels (Sony, Universal, Warner)
• Big indie labels
• Performance Rights Organisations (PRS, PPL, etc.)

They collect usage data from your mix — what tracks you play (via tracklists you submit or their automated ID system). Then they report plays and pay royalties to the right people: labels, publishers, songwriters, etc.

So unlike SoundCloud (where you can get flagged and taken down), Mixcloud is fully legit — that’s their big selling point.

Does Free vs Paid Matter?

Good question:

• Free Uploaders: If you’re using a basic free account, your mixes are still covered under Mixcloud’s licenses as long as they stay on Mixcloud.
• Paid Uploaders (Mixcloud Pro): Paying gets you features, not extra licensing coverage. You get:

• Longer uploads (over 500 MB)
• Scheduling shows.
• Better stats.
• The ability to run Select subscriptions — fans can pay monthly to support you.

The licensing arrangement stays the same — Mixcloud still pays the rights holders. You’re not suddenly required to clear more licenses just because you’re monetising with Select. They handle the split with the labels and publishers via their blanket deals.

One Important Caveat

You can’t offer downloads. 

Mixcloud’s license covers streaming only. That’s why there’s no download button — and you can’t legally upload your same mix for free download somewhere else unless you clear licenses for that yourself.

Key Takeaway

• Mixcloud’s license is the same for free and paid accounts — the difference is just the features and monetisation tools you get.
• They handle master + publishing royalties
• Streaming only — downloads break the license rules.

Bonus Tip

Their licensing covers the UK, US and most territories, but there are still some limitations — so occasionally a track can get muted or blocked in a specific country if the label opted out of Mixcloud’s blanket license. Doesn’t happen loads, but it’s good to know.

Hope this helped.

DJ Hurley (MKFM)

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