The Mechanical Licensing Collective

The Mechanical Licensing Collective (MLC) is an organization in the United States that helps manage and distribute royalties for songwriters and music publishers. It was established as part of the Music Modernization Act of 2018. The MLC specifically handles “mechanical licenses,” which are required when music is reproduced and distributed, such as in CDs or streaming services. By centralizing the licensing process, it ensures that creators receive fair compensation for their work, making it easier for music services to pay royalties accurately and efficiently.