Ever use music/PA system along with selling dogs?

Have any of you ever had an Ipod with some speakers or similar set up, just for some background music for you and the customers to listen to?   Any idea on legality of just hooking an Ipod up and playing it?  Do you need to own the CDs/mp3s that you are playing?  Do you need to get a generic mixed CD made by an outside company such as DMX music or something along those lines?

I am dealing with music in our new cafe right now.  It doesn't matter if you own the CD's or not.  If you are playing copyrighted material it is considered a public performance, and you are going to pay someone.  You can pay ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC directly, or you can use Sirius for business or MUZAK, as they pay the royalties.  You can also use the radio if you have fewer than 6 speakers and less than 3750 square feet.

Sorry I meant to throw this in the hotdog forums, but the question I guess can be applied to both forums.  I must have clicked the wrong button.

Ive been reading of companies who make custom IPODS and take care of the licensing for a monthly fee similar to Muzak.

I'm really looking for a way to get a customized playlist.  I'll keep reading on it.

Any other ideas/opinions are welcome. 

Thanks.

Actually you did post it in the Hot Dog Vendors forum.  I moved it here because I thought it was a better fit.  No worries.  If you come across that special IPOD let me know.  I would definitely be interested.

Have done this with the help of audio expert. Ipod speakers and ran local radio station. People love the local news and sounds.
Sub woofers to much. my chest hurt at the end of day.

MikeinRI, put on "Shine on your crazy diamond, parts I-V), this will give them time to chow down a dozen dogs!