WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a significant development for public media stations nationwide, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) announced on October 27, 2025, that it has finalized music licensing agreements with all five major performing rights organizations (PROs). These agreements ensure that stations like KNCT can continue broadcasting music without interruption or added cost, even as CPB prepares to wind down operations.

The agreements cover ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, the Harry Fox Agency, and Global Music Rights, and extend through December 31, 2027. CPB also confirmed it will fund the first two years of a new agreement with SoundExchange, securing digital performance rights for public radio during the same period.

“This is a critical step in maintaining the continuity of music programming across public media,” said CPB President and CEO Patricia Harrison. “By securing these licenses, we’re helping stations stay focused on serving their communities, especially during a time of financial uncertainty.”

Public performance licenses are required for music featured in public broadcasting, and most composers manage these rights through PROs. CPB has long handled these negotiations on behalf of more than 500 stations, streamlining the process and reducing costs systemwide.

The announcement comes just ahead of Public Radio Music Day on October 29, a nationwide celebration of the role music plays in connecting audiences through shared stories and sound. For stations like KNCT, the news reinforces their ability to continue delivering music that informs, inspires, and entertains.