Christian Copyright Licensing International

Christian Copyright Licensing International (CCLI)

CCLI was founded in the US in 1988 by Howard Rachinski who is President/CEO of the company. CCLI was launched after being developed by Howard for 3 1/2 years while he was a Music Minister at a large church in Portland, Oregon. This prototype was called Starpraise Ministries, which began in May 1985. CCLI offers copyright licensing of songs and other resource materials for use in Christian worship. The aim of CCLI has always been to provide services to facilitate worship (see the Vision and Mission below), benefiting the churches, while at the same time also benefiting the copyright owners.

Since its foundation, CCLI has expanded around the world to: Australia, Botswana, Canada, Denmark, Faroe Islands, Finland, Iceland, Ireland, Lesotho, Malawi, Namibia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, South Africa, Swaziland, Sweden, United Kingdom, Zimbabwe.

The licenses / services offered by CCLI have expanded, including:

Church Copyright License : for the reproduction of songs
Photocopy / Music Reproduction License : for the photocopying of worship music
SongSelect : online access of worship song lyrics, sound samples and download of lead sheets
Video License : in a joint venture with MPLC, under the company name of Christian Video Licensing International, for the copyright licensing of the playing of videos / DVDs for church activities
Screenvue : movie scenes and illustrations for use in sermon illustrations via Screenvue
SongTouch : MP3 song downloads via SongTouch

The average cost of a CCLI license is $99.00/year. The vast majority of the proceeds go back to the authors and publishers.

CCLI's Vision and Mission

CCLI's Vision

To establish a strong communication network serving the Body of Christ, which enables the dispensing of comprehensive and valuable informational, inspirational resources, both primary and secondary in origination.

CCLI's Mission

To encourage the spirit of worship through music to the local church collectively and to Christians individually, so that they may enhance their worship expression spontaneously, conveniently, affordably and legally.