R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-22-1.1: Live entertainment — City of Providence.

The board of licenses for the city of Providence is authorized to license, regulate, or prohibit “live entertainment” in the city of Providence, including, but not limited to, live performances of music or sound by individuals, bands, musicians, disc jockeys, dancing, or karaoke, with or without charge, provided that “incidental entertainment” be permitted as of right, and no license shall be required. “Incidental entertainment” means background music provided at a restaurant, bar, nightclub, supper club, or similar establishment, limited to the following format:

(1) Live music performance limited to no more than a maximum of three (3) acoustic instruments that shall not be amplified by any means, electronic or otherwise; or

(2) Prerecorded music or streamed music played over a permanently installed sound system. If a bar or restaurant includes incidental entertainment, it cannot charge a cover charge; shall not allow dancing by patrons of the establishment; cannot employ flashing, laser, or strobe lights; and the maximum volume, irrespective of the format, is limited solely to the boundaries of the premises at all times, and shall permit audible conversation among patrons of the establishment.