How do I use Songfile?
Step-by-step guide to purchasing limited quantity mechanical licenses through HFA’s Songfile service.
If you are distributing fewer than 2,500 copies of a recording (CD, cassette, LP, permanent digital download, or ringtone) or fewer than 10,000 streams on a personal website, you can obtain limited quantity mechanical licenses using HFA’s Songfile®.
To purchase a mechanical license through Songfile, visit www.songfile.com and create an account if you haven’t already. Then, select “Get A License” and begin filling in the details for your release.
Next, select “Add & Continue.” This will take you to the song search screen, where you can search by Title, Artist, and/or Writer. If you know the song code, you can enter it in the last field. Then, click Search.
Once search results are returned, you will see the licensing configurations available for each work. After confirming that the song and configuration you need are licensable via Songfile, select “Add to Release” and enter your release details.
After entering this information, select “Add to Release” again. The song will be added to your cart. When you view your Cart, you will see a cost breakdown. You can then “Proceed to Checkout,” where you’ll be asked to review the terms, licensee information, and your selections. Finally, enter your payment details. Once the transaction is complete, your license will be available for download, and a confirmation email with your order details will be sent to you.
Note: Songfile streaming licenses are valid only for streaming on personal websites. To release music on third-party streaming platforms (e.g., Spotify, Apple Music), you must inquire directly with the service or your distributor about obtaining the appropriate license.
If a musical work is not available through Songfile, you’ll need to obtain permission directly from the publisher(s). Use the following databases to find publisher contact information:
To check if a song is in the public domain, visit www.pdinfo.com.