10 Ways to Land a Sync Licensing Deal
Sync licensing is one of the most lucrative opportunities for musicians, allowing their music to be placed in films, TV shows, commercials, video games, and online content. A successful sync placement can provide exposure, credibility, and passive income. If you're looking to break into sync licensing, here are ten actionable ways to land a deal.
1. Create High-Quality, Sync-Friendly Music
Music supervisors look for tracks that fit seamlessly into a scene. To increase your chances of placement:
Ensure your music is professionally produced and mixed.
Create instrumental versions of your songs.
2. Own Your Rights and Metadata
For a song to be licensed, all rights (publishing and master recording) must be cleared. To streamline the process:
Ensure you have full ownership or proper agreements in place.
Embed metadata (song title, composer, contact information) in your music files.
3. Build a Catalog of Instrumentals
Instrumental versions of your songs are often requested for background music in TV shows, commercials, and video games. To prepare:
Offer both vocal and instrumental versions of your tracks.
Ensure your instrumentals stand alone without vocals.
4. Work with Music Libraries and Sync Agencies
Sync libraries and agencies act as middlemen, helping place your music in various media projects.
5. Research and Target the Right Opportunities
Understanding the types of music commonly placed in different media can give you a strategic advantage.
Watch TV shows, movies, and ads to identify common themes and genres.
Tailor your music to fit commercial, cinematic, or emotional tones.
6. Network with Music Supervisors
Music supervisors play a key role in selecting songs for sync placements. To connect with them:
Attend music industry conferences and sync-focused events.
Engage with them on LinkedIn and social media.
Keep your pitches concise, professional, and targeted.
7. Pitch Directly to Indie Filmmakers and Content Creators
Independent filmmakers, YouTubers, and content creators often need affordable licensed music.
Reach out to film schools, indie directors, and production houses.
Offer flexible licensing terms for low-budget projects.
8. Leverage Social Media and LinkedIn
Social media can help you connect with key industry players and showcase your music.
Post about your music being sync-friendly.
Engage with music supervisors, agencies, and brands on LinkedIn and Twitter.
Share success stories and past placements.
9. Join PROs (Performance Rights Organizations)
Sync placements generate performance royalties, which are collected by PROs like:
ASCAP
BMI
Registering with a PRO ensures you get paid whenever your music is used. If you have a global sync opportunity, you should consider signing with a publishing administrator like Elizabeth Music Group that can ensure you collect your worldwide royalties properly.
10. Be Persistent and Follow Up
Sync licensing is competitive, and deals take time to materialize. To stay ahead:
Send follow-up emails after pitching.
Keep an updated catalog of new, relevant tracks.
Stay consistent and patient—one great placement can open many doors.
Conclusion
Breaking into sync licensing requires strategy, persistence, and a professional approach. By creating sync-friendly music, networking with industry professionals, and leveraging online platforms, you can increase your chances of landing a sync deal. Start implementing these tips today and position your music for success in the world of film, TV, and commercials.
