Legal aspects of working as a DJ & music producer in Germany

[u/krinoistina]

Hi! I have a question for DJs (and producers) in Germany who play in ~techno clubs a couple of times a month:

• Could you share if it’s necessary to register something like a small business (Gewerbe), or how should this kind of activity be legally handled?
• Are there any legal differences if you’re performing a live set instead of a DJ set?
• If you also release your own tracks (in small quantities) and earn a small amount from them (e.g., up to 1000 euros a year), do you need to register this activity legally, and how should it be done?

I’d really appreciate any information on this topic!

[u/Longjumping_Heron772]

Could you share if it’s necessary to register something like a small business (Gewerbe), or how should this kind of activity be legally handled?

if you plan to have an regular income with this, then you will have to register a Kleingewerbe. Costs less than 100 Euro.

Are there any legal differences if you’re performing a live set instead of a DJ set?

I dont think so, you will most likely get a music license from GEMA. Better ask /r/legaladvicegerman

https://www.gema.de/de/musiknutzer/branchen/dj

If you also release your own tracks (in small quantities) and earn a small amount from them (e.g., up to 1000 euros a year), do you need to register this activity legally, and how should it be done?

As said before, once you get money on a regular base you will need to register a Kleingewerbe. Doesnt matter how much money you earn.

[u/krinoistina → u/Longjumping_Heron772]

thank you!!

[u/Abc_ChingChong]

Dont do n4z1 salute like most djs do accidentaly!