In this last segment of the Music 101 series we will discuss how synchronization licensing works, how you get paid from it, and the difference between it and mechanicals.

What is a Synchronization License? A Synchronization License authorizes the use of a specific copyrighted musical composition in combination with visual images such as in motion pictures, television programs, videos and computer programs.

With synchronization licenses, there is no set rate as to how much a song costs if used in film and television advertisements. This is true also for transcription licenses for radio ads and for print licenses for sale as sheet music. These monetary rates are negotiated separately between the media outlet and the music publisher. The media outlet (or licensee) pays the entire fee to the publisher, who in turn pays the songwriter their share (royalty). Performances that are captured live on television, for instance, do not require a synchronization license (though it will require a “performance license”) because that is the first time it aired. All broadcasts of that same performance afterwards, however, would require the appropriate synchronization license.

Per TheFirm.com, fees and advances for synchronization licenses vary greatly depending upon the use of it (e.g. whether the song will be used as a title song of a movie or in a commercial), the prominence of use (background music or featured performance), the popularity of the song and/or the songwriter, the media in which the song is to be used (e.g. television, motion pictures or even a video arcade game), the budget of the potential licensee, and the amount of goods that are to be initially manufactured, as well as other factors. For motion picture use payment in full, from the producer to the licensor is the norm.

Furthermore, new technological uses have created new markets and the potential for greater earnings through synchronization. In addition, questions have arisen regarding such new technological uses as cable, pay per view, pay television, satellite rebroadcast, home video, interactive video, and the internet.

This ends STACKS Magazine Music 101 series on royalties. Hopefully this information will help you on your path to success in the music industry.