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Song placement is
a great way to break your act, and can be a very lucrative
area. It can give your music exposure, jump-start your career
and generate significant income. But, it’s not easy getting
your songs in the right projects. For insight into this
rewarding field, we offer the following Tips.
1. CONTACT INFORMATION
Put contact
information on everything: the package, the CD and the
CD case. These items are often separated. Do not just put your
website – include your phone and email too.
2. INCLUDE TV MIXES
Submit both your
songs (with vocals) and the TV tracks (instrumental – no
vocals).
By including the
TV Mix, you increase your chance for placement by 50%. And,
remember to make sure the production is high quality. A rough
demo won’t cut it.
3. CLEAR ALL RIGHTS
All rights must
be cleared… including the underlying copyrights, publishing
rights, and the rights to the master recording. Get clearances
for any samples used, and include them with your submission.
4. NOTE STYLE OF
MUSIC, TEMPO & CONTENT
Your songs are
categorized by style, tempo and lyrical content. Put that info
right on the CD as well the case. Some song placers also like
to know “who you sound like.” That sort of information helps
them place songs quickly.
5. FACT SHEET/BIO
You should
include one page with pertinent facts about what you’ve done,
if you’ve had any songs placed and what you’re doing in your
career. Accomplishments and accolades are always impressive.
6. DON’T SUBMIT
TOO MANY SONGS
Don’t send your
whole album, unless it’s requested. Most song placers don’t
have the time to listen to your whole body of work. And,
decisions are made very quickly – sometimes in seconds.
7. KNOW THE MARKET & THE PROJECT
Don’t waste
everyone’s time sending the wrong material. Do some research
and know something about the projects you’re submitting to.
Sending inappropriate material can shut doors – possibly
forever.
8. PAY ATTENTION TO SPECS
Sometimes, you’ll
receive very specific requirements. Pay attention and follow
them to the tee. Don’t second-guess the song placer, thinking
you know better. It’s their project, not yours.
9. JOIN A PRO (Performance Rights Organization)
Most of your
money will come from Performance Rights Organizations: ASCAP.
BMI, SESAC. But, don’t rely on them exclusively. You should
also request “cue sheets” and gather evidence that shows the
number of plays a placement has received.
10. ACT PROFESSIONALLY
Don’t make
repeated calls. There’s a fine line between persistence and
obnoxiousness. Most song placers/music supervisors are very
busy, but not too busy to call you if a song is placed.
Be patient.
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