Getting a placement in TV or film can change the life of any artist. Not only do you get to earn money from it, but you also gain huge exposure with new listeners. If you want to know how to get music placed in sync licensing or even how to place music for TV and film at no cost, this guide has got you covered and will leave you on the right path.
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Learn Sync Licensing
Prior to sending your music, it’s important to know about sync licensing. Sync (standing for synchronization) licensing enables directors, television producers, and advertisers to utilize your music in their productions. When your song is utilized, you get paid a licensing fee and can also gain royalties from performance rights societies like ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC.
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Produce High-Quality, Film-Ready Music
Not every song is ideal for TV and film. During composition or choosing tracks to submit, consider the following:
Emotional Impact: Music that heightens a scene’s emotion is more likely to be chosen.
Instrumentals: Instrumentals are preferred by many projects since vocals can sometimes conflict with dialogue.
Professional Sound: Production must be of professional quality. If your music is unpolished, it won’t be considered.
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Register Your Music with a PRO
Register your music with a performing rights organization (PRO) to ensure you get the correct royalties. These organizations pay out and collect royalties on your behalf when your music is used on television or in a movie.
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Research and Identify Music Libraries
One of the simplest methods of submitting music for TV and film at no charge is via music libraries. These sites act as middlemen between artists and media producers. Some popular music libraries are:
Artlist
Pond5
Musicbed
AudioJungle
Epidemic Sound
Each of these libraries is different in how it accepts submissions, so make sure to check their guidelines thoroughly.
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Pitch Directly to Music Supervisors
Music supervisors are responsible for selecting songs for movies, TV shows, and commercials. Connecting with them directly can be a great way to get your music placed. Here’s how:
Research: Identify music supervisors who work on projects that align with your music style.
Create a Professional EPK (Electronic Press Kit): Include your bio, music samples, and contact information.
Send a Polite, Concise Email: Keep your message short, professional, and to the point.
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Send Your Music to Sync Licensing Agencies
Sync licensing agencies are companies that place music in television and film. They tend to operate on a more selective basis than music libraries. Some of the better-known agencies are:
Secret Road
Crucial Music
Music Gateway
APM Music
Most agencies have an application and a selection process before they will take on new artists.
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Network and Collaborate
Networking is a major part of the music industry. Go to industry events, participate in online forums, and partner with filmmakers and content creators. The more people you meet, the more opportunities you’ll have for your music to be heard in TV and film.
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Optimize Metadata for Your Tracks
Music supervisors often search for songs based on keywords. Make sure your metadata (track name, genre, mood, keywords, and contact information) is properly formatted. This makes it easier for decision-makers to find and license your music.
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Consider Offering Royalty-Free Music
Some independent film producers and creators have small budgets and seek royalty-free tracks. By making available some of your music under royalty-free license, you can find exposure and possible future opportunities.
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Be Patient and Persistent
Getting your music on TV and film takes time. Continue to work on your tracks, submit to opportunities, and follow up on leads. Getting sync licenses often involves persistence, but once you have your first placement, it can open up more doors in the future.