How Music Producers Can Break Into Sync Licensing: 3 Actionable Strategies

Sync licensing has quickly become one of the most reliable revenue streams for music producers. Beyond money, it offers opportunities to build lasting industry relationships and place your music in commercials, TV shows, films, and streaming content.

The challenge for many producers is simple: where do you start?

Here are three proven ways to begin your sync licensing journey whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your catalog to the next level. The final strategy highlights a publishing path that provides direct access to real-world sync briefs.

1. Create a Sync-Ready Catalog of High-Quality Tracks

Everything in sync licensing starts with music that supervisors actually want to use. A strong, versatile catalog is your foundation.

Steps to build a sync-friendly catalog:

• Study sync-focused music
  Listen carefully to:

  • Commercials and ad campaigns

  • Trailers

  • TV shows (dramas, comedies, reality)

  • Streaming originals

  • Sports promos

  Pay attention to:

  • Mood and emotional tone

  • Song structure (simplicity often works best)

  • Clean, polished production

  • Clear dynamics and energy flow

• Produce with usability in mind
  Sync-ready tracks often include:

  • A clear, distinct mood

  • Minimal frequency clashes

  • Steady internal rhythm

  • No uncleared samples

  • Alternate versions (instrumentals, 30-60 second cuts, stems)

Even a small catalog of 20–30 strong, licensable tracks can be enough to start landing placements.

2. Network with Sync Libraries and Music Supervisors

Another effective route is connecting directly with the people and platforms that place music.

Submit to reputable sync libraries:
These companies pitch your music to clients and handle licensing on your behalf. Library types include:

• Production music libraries

• Boutique, specialized libraries

• Trailer-focused catalogs

• Genre-specific libraries

Look for libraries that:

• Serve high-profile clients

• Offer transparency on splits and royalties

Build relationships with music supervisors:

• Attend industry conferences and virtual panels

• Connect professionally on LinkedIn

• Join sync-focused communities and Discord groups

⚠️ Tip: Avoid spamming supervisors. Focus on learning their needs, and share tracks only when requested.

3. Partner with a Publisher Like Elizabeth Music Group for Direct Sync Access

For many producers, teaming up with a publisher is the fastest way to get real-world sync experience.

Why Elizabeth Music Group (EMG) stands out:

• Access to Sync Briefs
  EMG posts active sync briefs from brands, agencies, networks, and music supervisors - including deadlines, reference tracks, and creative direction. These sync briefs are available in their exclusive Discord community for their publishing roster to access.

• Collaborative Community
  Producers can:

  • Trade loops and samples

  • Request live instrument recordings

  • Build teams and find collaborators for sync briefs

  • Receive feedback from EMG staff

• Full Publishing Support
  EMG handles:

  • Global publishing registrations and contracts

  • Cue sheets and rights management

  • Metadata and split administration

This allows you to focus on creating high-quality music while leaving the business side to the experts.

Ideal for producers who:

• Already have a catalog or want to build one

• Want hands-on sync experience without guesswork

• Prefer working with a supportive team that treats creators as partners

Final Thoughts

Sync licensing is no longer just for label-backed artists or industry insiders. With the right catalog, strong relationships, and a publishing partner like Elizabeth Music Group, any dedicated producer can start landing placements and generating consistent income.

Start producing sync-ready music, connect with the right professionals, and explore publishers that open doors to real briefs. Your music can become both creatively fulfilling and a reliable long-term revenue source.