The Sync Pitch Checklist: How to Prepare Your Catalog for Licensing Opportunities
Sync licensing is one of the most lucrative ways for songwriters and producers to earn income. From TV shows and films to video games and commercials, music supervisors are constantly searching for tracks that perfectly fit their projects. But landing a sync placement doesn’t happen by chance - it requires careful preparation. That’s where a sync pitch checklist comes in.
Why a Sync Pitch Checklist Matters
Music supervisors are busy, and their attention spans are short. The easier you make it for them to find, evaluate, and license your music, the more likely your songs will be chosen. A sync pitch checklist ensures your catalog is organized, professional, and ready for any opportunity.
1. Catalog Organization
Label and ID Your Tracks: Use clear, professional file names (e.g., SongTitle_Tempo_Key_Version).
Group by Mood or Genre: Supervisors often search for “upbeat pop” or “emotional indie.” Tagging songs by mood, genre, and instrumentation increases discoverability.
Include Alternate Versions: Instrumental, radio edit, or stems make your catalog more versatile.
2. Metadata Matters
Every song should have accurate metadata:
Songwriter(s)
Publisher(s)
Key and tempo
Contact info
Correct metadata ensures you get properly credited and paid for every placement.
3. Professional Quality
Mastered Tracks: While rough demos can show potential, supervisors prefer polished, ready-to-use tracks.
High-Quality Files: Provide WAV files when possible, and avoid low-bitrate MP3s for pitching.
4. Pitch-Ready Assets
One-Sheet for Each Track: Include title, mood, genre, and potential usage ideas.
Curated Playlists: Create themed collections to simplify discovery (e.g., “Upbeat Pop for Ads” or “Cinematic Instrumentals”).
Sync Pitch Decks: Some publishers and agencies prepare a short presentation highlighting your strongest tracks.
5. Rights Clearance
Before pitching, make sure:
You own the rights or have a publisher who can license the music.
Any samples or third-party elements are cleared.
You’re registered with performance rights organizations (PROs) and your publisher has registered your music globally.
6. Track Record and Metrics
If applicable, include:
Streaming numbers
Past placements
Notable collaborations
This helps supervisors understand your credibility and reach.
How Elizabeth Music Group Supports Sync Success
A professional approach to pitching your catalog is key but having the right partner amplifies results. Elizabeth Music Group goes beyond traditional publishing by actively connecting songs to opportunities:
Sync-Focused Strategy: In October 2025, Elizabeth Music Group received over $800K worth of sync briefs.
Catalog Optimization: They help artists organize tracks, create pitch-ready assets, and prepare alternate versions for licensing.
Full-Service Support: From legal clearance to PRO registration, they handle the administrative heavy lifting so you can focus on making music.
Monthly Royalties: Unlike many publishers, EMG pays royalties every month we receive royalties for your songs, ensuring you benefit immediately from any placements.
Final Thoughts
Preparing your catalog for sync licensing is about more than just submitting tracks - it’s about presenting your music professionally, accurately, and creatively. By following a sync pitch checklist and working with a proactive partner like Elizabeth Music Group, you maximize your chances of landing placements and turning your catalog into a consistent income stream.
