What is sync?
Synchronization (or music synchronization, for the pros) consists of associating a song or a piece of music with an audiovisual work: film, series, ad, video game, or even for Twitch streamers, YouTube or even phone ringtones if we want to expand. It can be the song that plays in the background in a café, the anthem of a main character, or even a soundtrack that fits perfectly with a sick action scene. 🕺💥
It's a real match between two worlds: the audiovisual world and the music world. Basically, a director or music supervisor (the brains behind these magical choices) looks for THE music that will convey the perfect emotion. And presto, your song ends up in a movie or a series, immortalized in the hearts of the spectators. 💖
But how does it work?
To make your song appear in a James Bond movie (let's dream big), here are the steps for synchronization:
1 Provision
You, the artist or composer, make your tracks available. This can be done via a publisher, a label or specialized platforms. You can also work directly with music supervisors.
2 Choice and negotiation
Once your title is spotted, it's time to negotiate. We set the rights: 50% for the songwriters (you), 50% for the producer (it can also be you if you are self-produced) minus the few commissions from the supervisor or the agency that placed you. 💸
3 Placement And there you have it, your music accompanies the scene of the hero saving the world (or just eating pizza, but we still love it). 🍕
Why is it cool?
1 A new visibility
Picture this: You're an indie artist, and bam, your song is on a hit TV show. Result? Tons of new fans and streams on Spotify. 🌍🎧
2 A nice income
Sync licenses can be very profitable. Between the upfront (direct payment for use) and the royalties, it can change an artist's life. 💰
3 The power of emotion
Let's be honest: seeing your music accompany a cult moment gives you chills. 🎥🎵
Some striking examples
- "Running Up That Hill" by Kate Bush in Stranger Things Result? Boom, an old 80s classic that explodes the charts again. 🛹👾
- Tarantino's soundtracks We can no longer count the forgotten songs that he brought back into fashion in two well-placed scenes.
So, ready to submit your music?
Synchro is a great opportunity for artists to get noticed and enter pop culture through the front door. Who knows, your next song could be the one that makes millions of viewers cry (or dance)! 🎬✨🎸
Here at MaAuLa, we work with Topo Tiko Publishing who has a good large base of contacts and partners around the world to find syncs for the label's artists.
Here is their latest sync: https://youtu.be/qL7kr1ckgDE?si=kFSpSm-fqEV8epTd
And you, what music would you dream of seeing in a cult scene? 🎧🍿