Bars
Guides
February 9, 2024
3 min read

A practical guide to selecting background music for bars and pubs 

You’ve got enough to handle: staff, stock, customers, compliance… Music? It should be the easy part. But in reality, it’s where a lot of bars make silent mistakes that later come with loud consequences.

You’ve probably tried a few options already. Let’s walk through them — and then show you one that’s simple, legal, and actually feels good.

Why background music isn’t just background

Studies show that the right music can increase dwell time and even boost drink sales by up to 15% (Soundtrack Your Brand, 2019). Tempo, volume, genre — they all shape the energy of your space. But it’s not just about vibe — it’s about permission.

Using Spotify, Apple Music, or YouTube in a bar is like pouring drinks without a license. These platforms are meant for personal use, not public performance. That means you’re unprotected — and yes, fines happen.

Common ways bars choose music. And their hidden costs

Have a look at the examples of what music will suit different types of bars and pubs.

1. Personal Streaming Accounts (Spotify, Apple Music)

⚡Effort: Low
💰Cost: Medium
⚠️Risks: Very High

These platforms are not licensed for commercial use. No certificate. If an inspector walks in — you’re exposed.

2. Personal Streaming Accounts (Spotify, Apple Music)

⚡Effort: Low
💰Cost: Medium
⚠️Risks: Very High

Ads, copyright claims, low quality, inconsistent vibe. Zero legal protection.

3. Hire a DJ or Curator

⚡Effort: High
💰Cost: High
⚠️Risks: Medium

Works for some venues, but only if you have the budget. Still requires separate licensing for music rights.

4. Business Music Platforms with Popular Tracks (e.g., Soundtrack, Mood Media, Soundmachine)

⚡Effort: Medium
💰Cost: High
⚠️Risks: Medium

You’ll still need to pay local CMOs (PRS, GEMA, ZAIKS, etc.) on top of your subscription.

5. Royalty-Free Music Services (like Moodby Play)

⚡Effort: Low
💰Cost: Low
⚠️Risks: None

One fixed payment. You get music + certificate + peace of mind.

Moodby Play — for when you’re done with workarounds

A music service built for commercial use. Not just with great playlists — but with the legal framework to back them up.

Moodby Play is a royalty-free music service made for bars, cafes, salons and anyone who just wants music that works — without legal headaches.

It’s not about being fancy. It’s about being free from fear. Check it for free with a 5-day free trial.

What it feels like to get it right

You open your bar, and the music’s just playing. No awkward silences. No skipped ads.

Customers stay longer. The energy builds naturally. You don’t think about rights or fines — because you don’t need to.

That’s what we offer. Legal peace of mind — that sounds good.

Diana Maltseva