Music Business/Law Tips - "Synch License Key Points"

If an artist’s music is placed in a TV show, film, or advertisement, that is called a “Synch License” (i.e., the music is played in synchronization with a visual image). Contract terms vary depending on the artist, song and program, but the following key points should always be addressed: 1. Fee. Anything is better than 0. 2. Scope of use. Be specific on how the music will be used. 3. Non-exclusive license. Make sure the usage is not an exclusive license. 4. Credit. Make sure the name of the song, performer, songwriter, publisher and performance rights society (i.e., BMI, ASCAP or SESAC) are clarified so that back-end performance income once the spot airs can be properly tracked/paid. 5. Cue sheet. Make sure that the producer of the content sends a cue sheet to the applicable performance rights society so it can track the play and pay the songwriters. 6. Permission. Make sure all the performers on the master and songwriters of the song are OK with the usage, and that the person signing the deal has authority to speak for all. Ben McLane Esq Benmclane.com