In today’s digital age, getting your music featured in television and film can be a game-changer for your career. A well-placed track in a TV show, commercial, or film can introduce your music to a vast audience, generate royalties, and even open doors to long-term industry relationships. But how do you get your music in front of music supervisors and decision-makers? If you’re wondering how to submit music for TV and film, this guide will walk you through the essential steps.
1. Understand the Role of Sync Licensing
Before submitting your music, it’s crucial to understand how sync licensing works. Sync (short for synchronization) refers to the process of pairing music with visual media like movies, TV shows, ads, and video games. When a music supervisor or production company wants to use your song, they must secure both the master rights (recording) and publishing rights (composition).
To increase your chances of getting placed, ensure you fully own or control these rights. If your music is tied to multiple rights holders, you must secure permission from all parties before submitting.
2. Create High-Quality, Professional Tracks
TV and film projects demand high-quality audio. Your music should be professionally recorded, mixed, and mastered to industry standards. Additionally, instrumental versions of your tracks are often required, as they allow for greater flexibility in sync placements.
When producing your tracks, consider the emotional impact of your music. Film and TV placements are often emotion-driven, so think about how your song fits into different moods—whether it’s uplifting, dramatic, suspenseful, or romantic.
3. Research and Target the Right Opportunities
Not all TV and film projects require the same type of music, so research where your sound fits best. For example, indie-folk tracks might work well for heartfelt drama series, while high-energy electronic beats are better suited for action-packed commercials.
Some ways to find relevant opportunities include:
- Music Licensing Agencies – Companies like Musicbed, Audio Network, and Songtradr help independent artists get their music placed in media.
- Sync Libraries – Platforms like Pond5 and Artlist accept submissions from musicians and provide a catalog of music for filmmakers.
- Direct Outreach – Research music supervisors for specific TV shows and films and reach out with a well-crafted email and a link to your music.
4. Format and Organize Your Music Properly
When submitting your music, presentation matters. Follow these best practices to make a great impression:
- High-quality WAV files (avoid MP3s unless specifically requested).
- Metadata tagging – Include essential details such as your name, contact information, song title, genre, and mood in the file properties.
- Instrumental and alternate versions – Music supervisors often request instrumental, acapella, or shorter versions of tracks.
- Easy-to-access links – Use platforms like Disco, Box, or SoundCloud (private links) instead of email attachments.
5. Network with Industry Professionals
Building relationships is key to getting your music into TV and film. Attend industry conferences, sync summits, and film festivals where music supervisors and filmmakers gather. Engage with them on social media and contribute to online communities where opportunities are shared.
Additionally, collaborate with other artists and producers who have experience in the sync world. Their connections can help introduce your music to the right people.
6. Be Patient and Persistent
Sync licensing is highly competitive, and it may take time before you land your first placement. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t receive immediate responses. Keep refining your craft, expanding your network, and submitting your tracks consistently.
One Night Stand Music and Management – Your Gateway to Sync Success
At One Night Stand Music and Management, we connect talented artists with top industry opportunities. Our team helps musicians navigate how to submit music for TV and film, ensuring their tracks reach the right ears. With our expertise in sync licensing and artist management, we make music placement seamless and successful.