How To Write Songs That Get Placed
Today let's consider what kind of songs get used in TV and Films and how you can write music that you will be able to license. First of all, there is an extremely wide variety of music that is used in TV and Film, but there are some general parameters that if you adhere to will greatly increase the odds that your music gets picked up.
This is one of those topics that makes some musicians cringe, the idea of changing or altering their music to sell it. I know, because I'm one of those musicians. In the past I've been very reluctant to alter my music at all. But over time I've learned that by loosening the grip on my creative reins and taking constructive criticism from others with more objective ears, I've been able to have more success in actually making money from my music. If that's not part of your goal with your music you can disregard the rest of this email. But... if you're interested in learning how to make money from your songs keep reading!
Ok, you're still with me. Let's put aside our egos for a second and consider the reality of why music gets licensed at all. In TV and Films music is used to enhance the scene the music is being used in. That's it. Music is used to create or evoke a certain mood that works within the context of the story being told.
Here are some general guidelines to consider:
1) Don't bore us, get to the chorus. Music that is written for TV and Films needs to be concise. This isn't the best forum for grandiose statements or long intros. Write songs that get to the point and have strong hooks and you will get a lot more of your songs placed.
2) Relationship songs are always in demand. Since songs are used to support the story being told and since most stories are about relationships, songs that are about relationships have a greater chance of being used. Pretty simple. This obviously only applies to vocal songs.
3) The more mainstream the better. For licensing your music that is. Mainstream music is mainstream for a reason. A lot of people connect with it. If your music sounds obscure, it won't appeal to as many possible supervisors, publishers, etc..
Those are just a few points to consider. There are many more that I cover in my program as outlined below.
The A To Z Of Music Licensing - The original program on music licensing that includes The 2011 TV and Film Music Business Directory, A Songwriter's Guide To Music Licensing Ebook, How To Audio Program,Three Audio Interviews with music licensing professionals, sample contracts and much more! The entire program is accessible online upon checkout.