The Essentials of Music Licensing: Maximize Your Earnings

The Essentials of Music Licensing: Maximize Your Earnings

Back in 2003, I started my music publishing company and have since licensed music on CBS, MTV, Fuel TV, Nickelodeon, and many independent films and advertising projects. This can be a very lucrative revenue stream for your music catalog. On the flip side, I once secured a mechanical license with a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, but after the artist, label, and co-producers took their cuts, there was nearly nothing left for my share. This experience taught me that while many aspiring songwriters dream of working with big artists and labels, less mainstream license deals could be more lucrative for their efforts and aspirations. Let’s break down music licensing and the “two sides.”
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Music Royalties: The Lifeblood of Songwriters and Rights Holders

Music Royalties: The Lifeblood of Songwriters and Rights Holders

I vividly remember the excitement and validation I felt when I received my first royalty check for a sync deal I landed with CBS. It was for a track that made its way into a popular TV show, and the initial upfront sync fee was thrilling on its own. But that was just the beginning. The deal also generated performance royalties from the episode’s airings, and another sync fee came in when the show was released on DVD.
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