About .music domain
.music is a community-based generic top-level domain (gTLD) operated by DotMusic Limited. The registry agreement with ICANN was signed on May 4, 2021, following a highly contested application process among eight parties. It was designed as a restricted-access domain space for the benefit of a defined global community.
Who can register .music domain
Registration for .music domains is restricted to verified members of the global music community. Eligible registrants must be affiliated with a .MUSIC-accredited Community Member Organization (MCMO). This process requires verification to ensure registrants are legitimate artists, bands, music industry professionals, or related organizations.
How to register .music domain
- Verify your eligibility by confirming your affiliation with a recognized music community organization or a .MUSIC-accredited Community Member Organization (MCMO).
- Submit your registration request through the designated community portal or an authorized partner, providing necessary documentation for verification.
- Await approval from the registry, which will review your application against the community eligibility criteria.
- Upon approval, complete the registration process, which includes configuring DNS settings for your new .music domain.
Typical uses of .music domain
The .music extension is primarily used by verified members of the global music community to establish a trusted and secure online presence. It is commonly adopted by musicians, bands, record labels, publishers, and industry associations who choose it to signal authenticity and commitment to a community-focused ecosystem. This TLD helps these entities stand out in a crowded digital space by associating their web address directly with their professional field, fostering a sense of belonging and verified identity within the industry.
Tips for registering .music domain
- Registrations are restricted to verified members of the global music community and require affiliation with an accredited organization.
- The registry employs enhanced policies tailored for the music community, focusing on security, anti-piracy, and intellectual property protection.
- A portion of registration revenue is designated for donation to selected non-profit music organizations.
Frequently asked questions about .music domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .music domain?
As of today, .music domains start from $9.99/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $74.99/yr across 14 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .music domains?
NameBeta tracks 14 registrars that support .music domain registration, with the cheapest option at $9.99/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .music domain?
The registry for .music domains is DotMusic, administered by DotMusic Limited.
Who can register a .music domain?
Registration is not open to the general public. To register a .music domain, you must be a verified member of the global music community, such as an artist, band, music company, or industry professional. Eligibility is typically demonstrated through affiliation with a .MUSIC-accredited Community Member Organization (MCMO), which will be part of the application verification process.
Can I transfer a .music domain between registrars?
Transferring a .music domain to a different registrar follows standard ICANN transfer policies, provided the domain is unlocked and you have the authorization code. However, the transfer will also be subject to the TLD's ongoing eligibility requirements. The gaining registrar may need to verify that the new registrant still meets the community membership criteria to complete the transfer.
What happens if my eligibility status changes after I register a .music domain?
The .music registry likely has policies to ensure ongoing compliance with its community eligibility criteria. If your status changes and you no longer qualify as a member of the music community, the registry may have the right to suspend or cancel the domain registration. It is important to review the registry's terms of service for specific rules regarding eligibility audits and the consequences of non-compliance.
Are there special dispute resolution policies for .music domains?
Yes, as a community-based gTLD, .music is expected to implement tailored dispute resolution policies alongside the standard UDRP. These policies are designed to address issues specific to the music community, such as intellectual property infringement and piracy, with potentially faster or more specialized procedures to protect rights holders within the industry.
Can I register a .music domain for speculative investment or resale?
The .music TLD is intended for active use by the verified music community. Its restricted registration model and eligibility requirements are designed to prevent cybersquatting and speculative investment. The registry's policies likely prohibit registering domains solely for resale to parties who may not meet the community criteria.
