[jkthedj]

I didn’t know where to write about this; and hopefully this will inspire a future “Off-Topic” section of the site for future posts like these, but since everybody here is a bigger radio expert than I am, I figure this would be a good place to ask a couple questions. I was thinking of starting an internet radio station–a music channel that plays music from TV shows, theme songs (on air & album length), original songs, etc.–But before I dive head first into it, I was curious about a few things that google (for some reason) couldn’t answer in a straight way:

1. What is the most cost-efficient way to run a station?

2. Is a broadcasting license (BMI/ASCAP/SESAC) 100% mandatory, or is it more of a “Suggestion” to cover my tracks legally?

3. Given the choice between Live365, Shoutcast et. al., which is the best place to broadcast from–not just on an economical point, but also sound quality/stream durability?

4. Would I be allowed to “crowdfund” the channel (I.e. Kickstarter and such), or does it have to be a private venture?

5. I’m also going to need a website to house the stream, would a D-I-Y website (I.e. Wix, wordpress, etc) work, or would I need a more professional “Go Daddy” type site?

6. Those are the main concerns, but am I missing anything else that’s important?

Any help would be great, I hope to launch the channel soon. Thank you.

JK—

[IainJohnston]

At least from the States you’ll have less of a tangled minefield of awkwardness/play-fees/nightmares
than some of the UK/UK-related streamers that are JMers have :^)

I’m sure you’ll get some excellent advice – but I would definately say be very careful with
“broadcasting-related” audio/video since so much of it is close-circuit licenced/contract-use
and legally requires direct “consent” from the Copyright owners – even if its a “friendly nod” from
a few jingle company owners – e.g. see how JingleMad radio makes the effort to ensure they have
permission to online “air” various producers work, even “dormant” or closed-down producers, because
the Rights still can be extant for many years and somebody-somewhere will still have ownership.

Hope you can make a go of it!

[tyty21]

That would be a great station if it gets the launch!

[CanadaJim]

You could try reaching out to these guys for some pro advice;
http://internetradioservices.com/
There are also some good nuggets of info on their website.

If you’re after a cost effective radio automation program (and don’t plan on having an army of DJ’s), I can recommend;
http://www.mixtime.com/overview.html

[Author]

Posts