How You Get Paid When You Write Songs For Films
When writing songs for films, writers can get paid anywhere from nothing upfront, to as much as $40,000. Sometimes established writers can even demand more upfront, although this is rare. Typically, for films with a decent buddget, writers will get somewhere between $5,000 and $15,000.
Step Deals
Sometimes writers are given a small advance upfront to record a demo of a song to present to the film company. If they like the song they will then move forward and record a fully produced version for a pre arranged fee. These types of deals are known as step deals because they advance forward in a series of steps.
The fee that is paid to the writer for usage in a film is what's known as a "buyout". The film company is buying out the right to use the song in their film and other media they produce in conjuction with the film. Film companies also normally buyout the right to use the same song in any potential sequels as well. Established writers can sometimes negotiate a seperate fee for usage in additional media.
Films that are shown theatrically in the US do not generate performance royalites, although if and when the film makes its way to television, performance royalties will be generated.
For more information on getting your music into TV and Films be sure to check out my program, The A To Z Of Music Licensing. This program is packed with information about how the music licensing business works and how you can start licensing your own music and also includes a directory of professionals working in the industry. For a limited time it also includes my newest program, The A To Z Of Creating An Information Product Business, for free.
More Info Here.
I also have a variety of packages that include additional coaching with me one on one, for those who are looking for more help in getting their music licensed. To see all of my products and services
visit my product page.
Until Next Time....
Aaron Davison
