Getting your music featured on TV can significantly boost your exposure, open new revenue streams, and elevate your career as an artist. Whether you’re an independent musician or part of a band, understanding the process to place your music on television involves strategic outreach, professional presentation, and persistence. This quick and dirty overview will walk you through the essential steps to make your music TV-ready and increase your chances of landing that coveted placement. Before diving in, ensure your music is professionally recorded, mixed, and mastered. Having your music properly copyrighted and registered with the right performing rights organizations (PROs) is also crucial. These foundational steps protect your work and make it easier for licensing agents to evaluate your music.
What You’ll Need
- High-quality, professionally recorded music tracks
- Copyright registration for your music
- Music metadata (titles, composer info, ISRC codes)
- A compelling press kit or electronic press kit (EPK)
- A list of contacts in music licensing and sync agencies
- Knowledge of licensing fees and rights management
- Persistence and patience
Step-by-Step
- Prepare Your Music and Materials: Ensure your tracks are professionally produced, mixed, and mastered. Register your music with a PRO like ASCAP, BMI, or SOCAN, and obtain ISRC codes if possible. Compile detailed metadata—song titles, writers, publishers, and licensing rights.
- Create a Professional EPK: Develop an electronic press kit that includes your bio, high-resolution photos, links to your music, and previous placements or notable credits. Keep it concise, visually appealing, and easy to navigate.
- Identify Potential TV Placements: Research shows, networks, and production companies that align with your music genre. Look for shows that use similar music styles and note their music supervisors or licensing contacts.
- Build a Targeted Contact List: Find the contact information for music supervisors, licensing agents, or sync agencies associated with your target shows. Use resources like IMDbPro, LinkedIn, or industry directories.
- Send Your Music and Pitch Professionally: Craft a personalized, concise email introducing yourself and your song. Attach your EPK or provide links to your music. Highlight why your music fits their show, and state your licensing terms or willingness to negotiate.
- Follow Up and Build Relationships: Be persistent but polite. Follow up after a couple of weeks if you haven’t received a response. Attend industry events or network online to connect directly with decision-makers.
- Negotiate Licensing Terms: Once a show shows interest, discuss licensing fees, rights, and usage terms. Be clear about what rights you’re granting and for how long.
- Sign Agreements and Deliver the Music: Formalize the deal with a licensing agreement. Deliver the final, broadcast-quality files as specified, typically in WAV or high-quality MP3 formats.
- Monitor and Collect Royalties: Register the placement with your PRO and any licensing agencies involved to ensure you receive royalties. Keep records of all agreements for future reference.
Common Mistakes
- Sending unprofessional or low-quality recordings that reflect poorly on your work
- Failing to research the right contacts or shows that match your music style
- Not registering your music or neglecting copyright and metadata details
- Sending generic pitches without personalization or showing understanding of the show’s tone
- Ignoring the importance of a professional EPK or online presence
- Failing to follow up or maintain relationships after initial contact
Tips
- Keep your pitches concise, personalized, and show that you’ve researched the show and its music needs
- Build relationships with music supervisors and licensing agents through industry events or social media
- Stay organized with a spreadsheet tracking contacts, pitches sent, responses, and licensing agreements
- Regularly update your music catalog and EPK to reflect your latest work and achievements
- Be flexible with licensing terms and willing to negotiate to secure placements
- Consider working with a sync licensing agent or publisher if you’re new to the process
Troubleshooting
If your music isn’t getting placed:
- Reevaluate your music quality and ensure it aligns with the show’s style and audience
- Improve your pitch—personalize emails, clarify your licensing terms, and highlight your unique qualities
- Expand your network by attending industry events, joining licensing forums, or collaborating with other musicians
- Seek feedback from industry professionals or mentors to identify areas for improvement
- Stay persistent; getting placements often takes time and multiple attempts
- Consider working with a licensing professional who has established relationships in the industry
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to get my music on TV? It varies; some placements happen within weeks, while others take months of persistent pitching and networking.
- Do I need to be signed to a publisher to license my music? Not necessarily. Independent artists can license their music directly or through licensing agencies.
- What fees can I expect for licensing my music? Fees vary based on the show, usage duration, and territory. Negotiations are key, and some placements may be royalty-based.
- Can I license my music for multiple shows at once? Yes, but be mindful of exclusivity clauses and rights management. Clear agreements prevent conflicts.
- What if my music gets rejected? Use the feedback to improve, explore other shows or genres, and keep refining your pitch and materials.
- Is it better to work with a licensing agency? For many, yes—especially if you’re new or lack industry connections. Agencies have established relationships and can negotiate on your behalf.
Getting your music on TV is a blend of preparation, persistence, and strategic outreach. Follow these steps, avoid common pitfalls, and stay committed to your goal. With time and effort, your music could be featured on screens worldwide, opening exciting new opportunities for your career.
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How To Get Your Music On TV: A Practical Guide