Posted in: Music Making by eteachers.info on June 9, 2009 | 0 Comments
Music Publishers promote their own artists in a variety of ways but there is an abundance of opportunity in the Film and Television markets. There will be a demand that is always looking for various styles of music to be used as backgrounds or themes.
First, there must be an immediate synchronization fee just for a producer to include the song in the show or film. This is only inclusive of domestic deals, so be sure any international rights are negotiated separately or at least protected in the initial contract. The Music Publisher’s best interest is that of the artist as they only make money based on the amount earned. Therefore, there should be no trust issues at this point apart from out of an act of desperation.
After the synchronization fee is completed, then the artist is entitled to performance royalties. These are monies paid through ASCAP or BMI which are “per play” whether the movie airs on television or in a film festival. In the case of broadcast television shows, all royalties are based on number of showings and then priced according to time slot.
The most money can be made on the sale of the soundtrack. This is where a composer or songwriter stands to get a portion of the profits for each song in the compilation. If there is only one song, assume around $1.00 per record sold. If there are multiple songs, it generally isn’t $1.00 per, as Publishers and Producers generally issue flat rates with a proviso that accounts for sale of single MP3’s or CD’s.
