If you’ve spent any time trying to license your music, you’ve probably noticed that some artists seem to effortlessly land placements in TV shows, films, and commercials, while others struggle to get noticed at all. Over the last 15 years, I’ve worked with thousands of musicians who aim to license their music, and I’ve seen clear patterns in the behaviors of artists who find consistent
success.
Successful sync licensing artists don’t just rely on talent or luck, they adopt specific strategies that give them a huge advantage. Below, I’ll share seven important things these artists consistently do differently.
They Understand Exactly What Music Supervisors Want
The most successful artists in sync licensing are tuned in to the real needs of music supervisors. They
pay close attention to the type of music that’s currently getting placed, and they study the themes, styles, and moods that music supervisors repeatedly use in projects. By researching popular TV shows, films, and commercials, they know precisely what kind of tracks supervisors are likely to need, and they tailor their music accordingly. This kind of targeted approach sets them apart, because it removes guesswork and increases their chances of landing placements significantly.
They Focus on Building Genuine Relationships
The sync licensing industry revolves around relationships, and the artists who succeed understand this deeply. Instead of sending mass emails or relying solely on cold pitches, these artists focus on forming authentic connections. They network regularly, reach out personally, attend events, and genuinely engage with music supervisors and industry professionals. They remember details
about the people they meet, and they offer support rather than simply asking for favors. Over time, these authentic relationships lead to trust and frequent opportunities for placements.
They Consistently Create New Music
Successful sync artists don’t rely on a small handful of tracks to carry them through their careers. Instead, they’re constantly creating and expanding their catalogs. They understand the
importance of variety, having different moods, styles, and genres available to pitch. By consistently producing fresh, high-quality tracks, they’re always ready to capitalize on new opportunities. This steady productivity puts them at a distinct advantage over artists who only occasionally create new material.
They Master the Art of Pitching Their Music
Pitching music successfully is an art, and the artists who get
placements consistently know exactly how to do it well. They craft clear, concise, and personalized emails that quickly explain why their music is the perfect fit for a particular project. Instead of overwhelming supervisors with unnecessary details, they make it easy to listen, stream, and download their music. They also follow up professionally, knowing exactly how to remind supervisors of their submissions without being pushy. This professional approach makes supervisors more likely to
remember their music and choose it when the timing is right.
They Stay on Top of Industry Trends
Artists who consistently succeed in sync licensing stay aware of current industry trends. They’re constantly watching what’s happening in TV, film, and commercials, and they notice what styles and genres are becoming popular. By keeping their ears open, they position themselves strategically, ensuring their music stays
relevant. They don’t chase every passing fad, but they remain aware of shifts in demand so they can adjust their creative approach accordingly.
They Organize Their Licensing Efforts Carefully
Organization is another hallmark of successful sync licensing artists. They meticulously track submissions, placements, and licensing agreements. This careful attention to detail means they’re always clear about where their
music is, who’s heard it, and what the next steps are. By managing their workflow effectively, they never miss important follow-ups, and they’re always ready to provide supervisors with anything extra needed to finalize placements quickly. Their reliability and responsiveness make them favorites among industry professionals.
They Take the Long-Term View and Stay Patient
Perhaps the most critical difference between
successful sync licensing artists and those who fall short is patience. Successful artists know that sync licensing success doesn’t usually happen overnight. They approach their licensing careers as long-term investments, recognizing that it takes time to build relationships, gain traction, and see significant placements. Instead of getting discouraged by early rejections or slow progress, they remain consistent, optimistic, and persistent. Over time, this patient mindset pays off in placements,
royalties, and lasting success.
