How to Write Songs That Get Placed in Film and TV

Getting your music placed in film and TV can be a game-changer for any songwriter or producer. Sync licensing offers exposure, credibility, and a steady income stream, but writing songs that work well for visual media requires a strategic approach. Here’s how you can craft songs that are more likely to get placed in film and television.

1. Understand What Music Supervisors Look For

Music supervisors are responsible for selecting songs that fit a scene's mood, theme, and emotional impact. They typically look for:

• Emotional resonance: The song should enhance the scene’s mood (e.g., uplifting, melancholy, tense, romantic).

• Lyrical relevance: Lyrics should be broad enough to fit multiple scenarios yet still carry emotional weight.

• High production quality: Even if a song is simple, it must sound polished and professional.

• Easy clearance: Avoid uncleared samples or complex ownership splits that might complicate licensing.

2. Focus on Universal Themes

Sync-friendly songs often revolve around themes that resonate across different stories and characters. Some of the most popular themes include:

• Love & Relationships (falling in love, heartbreak, longing)

• Overcoming Challenges (resilience, empowerment, personal growth)

• Adventure & Exploration (freedom, travel, new experiences)

• Nostalgia & Reflection (memories, past experiences, change)

3. Keep the Lyrics Broad Yet Impactful

For a song to fit multiple film and TV placements, it should avoid overly specific details. Instead of writing about “driving down Sunset Boulevard with Zach,” opt for more universal phrasing like “driving with the windows down, thinking about you.”

Lyrical Tips:

• Use language that evokes emotion without locking into a singular narrative.

• Avoid brand names, overly complex metaphors, or personal names unless they serve a universal purpose.

• Write in the present tense for immediacy and engagement.

4. Craft a Strong, Memorable Hook

A song’s hook is its most recognizable part, and in sync licensing, it needs to be instantly engaging. Catchy, anthemic, or emotionally gripping hooks tend to work best for film and TV.

Ways to Make Your Hook Sync-Friendly:

• Keep it short and easy to remember.

• Make it singable and repeatable.

• Reinforce the theme of the song within the hook.

5. Match the Right Energy and Mood

Songs placed in film and TV must complement the scene’s atmosphere. Think about where your music might fit:

• High-energy songs work well in action sequences, sports montages, and commercials.

• Emotional ballads fit romantic, dramatic, or reflective scenes.

• Dark and moody tracks are often used in thrillers and suspenseful moments.

• Upbeat and positive songs are great for feel-good films, comedies, and advertisements.

6. Produce a Versatile Arrangement

While full-production tracks work well for many placements, alternate versions (instrumentals, stripped-down, or acapella) increase a song’s sync potential.

Best Practices for Production:

• Ensure the song has a clean mix with clear vocals.

• Create instrumental versions for dialogue-heavy scenes.

• Avoid excessive reverb or overly complex production that might clash with dialogue.

7. Register and Protect Your Music

To get your song placed, you need to make sure it's properly registered and ready for licensing.

• Register with a PRO (Performance Rights Organization): ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, etc.

• Metadata tagging: Ensure your song files include keywords, moods, and genre tags for easy discovery.

• Make stems and alternate versions available: Music supervisors often request custom edits.

8. Build Relationships with Sync Agencies & Libraries

Many music supervisors work with sync agencies and licensing libraries to find songs quickly. Submitting your music to reputable licensing companies increases your chances of landing a placement.

• Research and pitch to sync libraries that align with your style.

• Network with music supervisors through industry events, LinkedIn, and social media.

• Build a portfolio of sync-friendly tracks to showcase your work.

Final Thoughts

Writing songs for film and TV requires a balance of artistry and strategy. By focusing on universal themes, crafting strong hooks, and ensuring high production quality, you can significantly increase your chances of landing placements. Keep refining your skills, networking with industry professionals, and submitting your best work—your next song could be the perfect fit for a big scene!