Music quietly fills many public spaces such as cafés, restaurants, hotels, salons, gyms, and retail stores, yet few realize that every melody carries legal and creative value. While customers enjoy the pleasant atmosphere, many businesses overlook that the songs they play are not free for public use. Behind every track lies the work of songwriters, composers, and performers whose rights are protected by copyright law. This gap between creative ownership and commercial enjoyment forms the core of a conversation that is rarely spoken about in Indonesia’s business landscape.
Indonesia’s copyright framework, particularly Government Regulation No. 56 of 2021, makes it clear that music performed or played in public spaces requires a license and royalty payment through collective management bodies such as LMKN and LMK. The purpose is to ensure that creators receive fair compensation whenever their work is used commercially. However, many business owners remain unaware of these obligations or assume that personal streaming accounts are sufficient for commercial use. This misunderstanding has led to recurring cases where businesses unknowingly violate copyright law, often due to a lack of information rather than intent.
The lack of open conversation about music rights is influenced by several factors, including limited media coverage, inconsistent enforcement, and the common perception that royalties only apply to concerts or major productions. In reality, the regulations extend to any space that uses music as part of its customer experience. When awareness remains low, creators lose potential income, and businesses risk facing legal issues that could easily be prevented through proper licensing. This silence benefits no one and continues to create imbalance in the creative ecosystem.
Promoting awareness about background music rights is not about adding burdens to businesses but about fostering fairness and sustainability in the creative economy. By recognizing that music holds value beyond ambiance, businesses can make ethical choices that strengthen their reputation and contribute to a fairer system for creators. Transparency, consistent enforcement, and public education are key to bridging this gap. As awareness grows, what was once a hidden conversation can evolve into a shared understanding that benefits both creators and businesses alike.
Sources: Conventus Law. (2024, July 22). Indonesia – Artists or organizers: Who’s really responsible for live performance royalties? Conventus Law. | Lexology. (2025, January 15). Royalty management in Indonesia’s music industry. Lexology. | The Straits Times. (2024, June 20). Cafes and more react to Indonesia’s clampdown over unpaid royalty fees. The Straits Times.