12.3 Licensing opportunities for songs

Licensing opportunities for songs open up a world of possibilities for songwriters to earn money and gain exposure. From syncing music with visual media to placing songs in commercials and video games, these avenues can be lucrative and career-boosting.

Understanding the different types of licenses and how to navigate music libraries is crucial for success in this field. By mastering these aspects, songwriters can tap into diverse income streams and potentially reach wider audiences through strategic placements.

Licensing Types

Synchronization and Master Use Licenses

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• Sync licensing grants permission to synchronize a composition with visual media (film, TV, video games, advertisements)
• Master use license allows the use of a specific recording of a composition in audiovisual projects
  • Obtained from the owner of the master recording, typically the record label
  • Separate from the sync license, which is obtained from the composition copyright holder
• Cover versions require only a sync license, as the master rights belong to the artist recording the cover

Blanket Licenses and Sampling Clearance

• Blanket license allows the use of a catalog of music for a specified period
  • Commonly used by businesses (restaurants, stores) for background music
  • Obtained from performing rights organizations (ASCAP, BMI, SESAC)
• Sampling requires permission from both the composition copyright holder and the master recording owner
  • Clearance must be obtained before releasing a song containing a sample
  • Failure to clear samples can result in legal action and financial penalties

Media Placement

Film, Television, and Advertising Synchronization

• Film and TV placement involves securing sync and master licenses for use in movies, TV shows, and documentaries
  • Placements can range from background music to featured songs in pivotal scenes
  • Successful placements can lead to increased exposure and royalty income for songwriters
• Advertising sync deals allow the use of songs in commercials and promotional campaigns
  • Often involves adapting lyrics or creating custom versions to fit the advertisement's message
  • Can be lucrative for songwriters, as advertisers often pay premium fees for high-profile placements

Video Game Music Licensing

• Video games require sync and master licenses for music used in-game and in promotional materials
  • Opportunities for both original compositions and licensed tracks
  • Interactive nature of games may require additional licensing considerations (adaptive music, user-controlled elements)
• Placement in popular video game franchises (FIFA, Grand Theft Auto) can lead to significant exposure and income for featured artists

Music Libraries

Pre-Cleared Music for Media Use

• Music libraries are catalogs of pre-cleared songs available for licensing in various media projects
  • Offer a wide range of genres, moods, and instrumentals to suit different needs
  • Streamline the licensing process by providing sync and master rights in a single agreement
• Libraries often have online platforms for browsing, searching, and licensing tracks
  • Many provide downloadable watermarked previews for testing in projects before licensing
• Placement through music libraries can provide a steady stream of sync income for songwriters
  • Although fees may be lower than direct licensing, the volume of placements can compensate