Understanding Music Licensing
How Indie Artists Can Earn Through Placements
Ever heard your favorite song in a movie or commercial? That’s music licensing at work. From TV shows to video games, music licensing is one of the most profitable income streams for artists. Yet, many indie musicians miss out on these opportunities simply because they don’t understand how it works. If you’re looking to make money beyond streaming and touring, licensing should be a key part of your strategy.
What is Music Licensing & Why Does It Matter?
Music licensing refers to the legal process of granting permission to use your music in different formats, such as film, TV, advertisements, and digital platforms. Unlike streaming royalties, which can take time to accumulate, licensing fees are often paid upfront, making them a lucrative revenue stream for independent artists. It’s a way to monetize your music beyond traditional distribution.
Types of Music Licenses & How They Work
Understanding the different types of music licenses is crucial if you want to maximize your earnings. Here are the main types:
Sync Licensing
Sync (short for synchronization) licensing allows music to be paired with visual media. This includes:
- Movies & TV Shows (Background scores, opening credits, dramatic moments)
- Commercials (Brands pay high fees for the right song)
- Video Games (Popular games use licensed tracks)
- YouTube & Online Content (Content creators license music)
Sync deals can be extremely profitable, with upfront payments ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on the project and reach.
Mechanical Licensing
A mechanical license is required when music is reproduced and distributed, whether physically (CDs, vinyl) or digitally (downloads, streaming). In the U.S., The MLC (Mechanical Licensing Collective) collects and distributes these royalties, but there are other organizations that also handle mechanical royalties.
Public Performance Licensing
Every time your song is played on the radio, performed live, or streamed in public spaces (restaurants, clubs, stadiums), you earn public performance royalties. These are collected by Performance Rights Organizations (PROs) such as:
How Indie Artists Can Get Licensed
You don’t need a major label to start making money through licensing. Here’s how independent artists can break into the market:
1. Work with Sync Agencies
Sync agencies and music libraries pitch songs to film, TV, and commercial projects. Some popular platforms include:
- Best Coast Records (We help artists secure sync deals and publishing opportunities)
- Musicbed
- Artlist
2. Metadata & Tagging Matter
Music supervisors search for songs using keywords, genres, moods, and tempos. Ensure your track has complete metadata, including:
- Song Title
- Composer/Writer Info
- Publisher Details
- Genre, Mood, and BPM
- Contact Information
3. Create Instrumental Versions
TV shows, commercials, and film projects often prefer instrumental tracks to avoid clashing with dialogue. Always provide an instrumental mix of your songs to increase placement opportunities.
How to Get Started with Licensing
If you’re ready to earn from music licensing, follow these steps:
1. Sign Up with a PRO
To collect performance royalties, register with ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC. Each PRO has its own advantages, so research which one best suits your needs. We strongly recommend BMI.
2. Build a Licensing-Friendly Catalog
Create a collection of songs that are easy to license. Focus on:
- High-quality production
- Instrumental and alternative versions
- Easily clearable rights (avoid excessive samples)
3. Pitch to Music Supervisors
Music supervisors are the gatekeepers for sync placements. Use platforms like:
- Music Gateway
- Disco.ac
- Best Coast Records (We connect artists with licensing opportunities globally)
Getting Started
Music licensing is one of the best ways for independent artists to earn a sustainable income. By understanding sync, mechanical, and performance rights, you can start making money from your music beyond streaming.
If you’re ready to take your career to the next level, Best Coast Records offers publishing and sync licensing services to help indie artists secure placements and get paid.
Start your licensing journey today!
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