Vestibule Trap - Blogs

DIGITAL MUSIC DISTRIBUTION: HOW TO SELL YOUR MUSIC ONLINE

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 07:24:00 +0000

Learn what digital music distribution services are and how they help independent artists and record labels sell music online.

WHAT IS DIGITAL MUSIC DISTRIBUTION?

Digital music distribution services help independent artists and labels get their music on major online music stores and streaming sites worldwide. These digital aggregators distribute music on iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, Beatport, Amazon, Google Play, Pandora, and other leading music platforms. Many digital distributors also offer an extensive range of artist tools, services, and resources. They provide everything needed to sell your music online and grow your fan base.

DIGITAL MUSIC DISTRIBUTION SERVICES

Many leading digital music distributors offer a suite of services and tools for artists. They provide everything needed to prepare, sell, and market your music. Common services offered by industry-leading digital music distribution companies include:

Delivering music to an extensive network of online music stores and streaming platforms
Collecting and managing various music royalties
Sales and analytics tools
In-depth reporting and analysis
Music licensing for placement on TV, film, video games, commercials, and more
Music anti-piracy services
Free ISRC and UPC barcodes
Mixing and mastering services
Video creation, promotion, distribution, and monetization
Content ID protection for YouTube videos
Album cover art, logo, EPK, and branding design services
Merchandise and printing services
Marketing promo mailer and other promotional services
Public relations services, custom marketing plans, and release advice
Music education, industry tips, and artist development information

HOW DIGITAL MUSIC DISTRIBUTION WORKS

Music distribution is now easier for unsigned artists. You no longer need a record label to share your music with the world.

Many of the major music platforms like iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon, Google Play, and Beatport do not deal with independent artists. They either require demanding submission requirements or will only work with approved digital distribution aggregators. So, the easiest and most hassle-free way to sell your music across the globe without a record deal is to use a digital music distribution service.

Additionally, digital music distributors partner with hundreds of online music stores and streaming services worldwide. They also provide everything needed to get your music to these music platforms. Moreover, you keep 100% of the rights to your music and 100% of the money you earn.

DIGITAL MUSIC DISTRIBUTION PRICING

Many digital aggregators allow you to keep 100% of sales, downloads, and streaming revenue. However, there are costs to using their services.

Digital music distribution pricing varies. Some digital distributors charge upfront fees for every album, EP, and single. Many also charge a percentage of revenue earned from sales and streaming. In other cases, aggregators will charge ongoing monthly or annual fees to keep your content online. New business models continue to appear as the music industry evolves, so do your homework before choosing one.

THE BEST MUSIC DISTRIBUTION COMPANIES

Each of the music distribution companies mentioned below has a solid reputation. It’s encouraged to check out what each service offers, how they manage your music, and what they charge to distribute your music. Choose one that best meets your needs and budget.

THE TAKEAWAY

Digital music distribution services help independent artists and labels get their music heard worldwide. They distribute music to a vast network of digital music stores and streaming platforms. These digital aggregators also offer an extensive range of tools and services that help artists grow their brand, reach new fans, make money from their music, and much more.

HOW TO LICENSE MUSIC FOR VIDEO GAMES

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 07:07:00 +0000

What is sync licensing and how do you license music? Get a better understanding of music licensing and learn how to get your songs placed in video games.

HOW TO GET YOUR SONGS PLACED IN VIDEO GAMES

Collecting royalties from digital music sales and song streams is not the only way to make money with your music. Licensing your music for TV shows, movies, commercials, video games, trailers, YouTube, and other types of visual media can generate significant revenue streams.

Music licensing has become one of the smartest ways for independent musicians to earn money. It’s also one of the fastest growing opportunities for emerging artists to make money and get discovered. You can receive licensing revenue through initial fees and performance royalties while also gaining valuable exposure.

What is sync licensing and how does it work? This guide will help you understand music licensing. It also offers advice on how to get your music placed in video games.

WHAT IS MUSIC LICENSING?

Music licensing gives legal permission to use copyrighted music. Licensing music also ensures the owners of copyrights receive royalty payments for the use of their work.

There are six types of music licenses: synchronization license, master license, mechanical license, public performance license, print license, and theatrical license.

LICENSE MUSIC FOR VIDEO GAMES

Licensing music for video games and other types of visual media requires two licenses: A Synchronization License (Sync) and a Master Use License.

Music licensing agreements require both licenses because every recorded song has two copyrights:

Master sound recording: This is the original studio recording. A record label usually owns the rights to the master recording.
Musical composition: This is the underlying music arrangement, melody, and any lyrics. The composer or their music publisher usually own the rights to the musical composition.

WHAT IS A SYNCHRONIZATION LICENSE (SYNC)?

A Synchronization License or Sync License allows the right to use a copyrighted musical composition in movies, television shows, commercials, video games, and any other visual media. It is an agreement between the owner of the copyrighted music (copyright holder) and the licensee who wants to place the music.

However, a Sync License does not include the right to use a master recording with the visual media. A licensee will also need a Master Use License before using copyrighted music.

WHAT IS A MASTER USE LICENSE?

A Master Use License is an agreement between the owner of the original master recording and the person seeking permission to use the recording. Any use of protected music in visual media, whether it’s a full song or short sample, will need a Master Use License. An artist owns the master rights to their songs. However, if they sign a record deal, then the record label takes ownership of the master rights.

BENEFITS OF A SYNC LICENSE

The video game industry has been the fastest growing area of the entertainment business. And music plays a significant part in many of these video games. Below are some benefits of sync licensing:

Sync licensing can be a major source of revenue for independent artists. It’s also an effective way to gain exposure and reach new fans.
Getting your music placed in video games brings new attention to music that has been out for a while. A sync license can give your older music fresh attention and new royalty payments.
Sync licenses create opportunities for artists to earn passive income through continued royalties or usage fees. Passive income is revenue received regularly. It requires minimal to no effort by the recipient to maintain.
Sync licensing benefits lesser known artists overlooked by mainstream fans on music streaming sites. Those platforms focus on popular trends, traffic volume, and engagement. Moreover, those seeking music for visual media are less concerned whether an artist is famous or has a million streams. Their only concern is whether the music works for the audiovisual project.
The demand for music in movies, television shows, commercials, video games, trailers, and other types of visual media is at an all-time high. This means more opportunities to make money with your music.

WHAT IS A MUSIC SUPERVISOR?

Understanding the role of a music supervisor is essential if you’re looking to get your music placed in video games.

A music supervisor places music in visual media such as movies, television shows, video games, commercials, and other types of visual media. They select the appropriate music for a project and secure the licenses to use it. A music supervisor oversees all music-related tasks.

For example, music supervisors have music expertise, knowledge of music licensing, and negotiation skills. They work with the directors, producers, or creative teams of the visual media to determine the best music needed for a project. Once the music gets approved, they approach the copyright holder to seek music licensing permission and work out financial details.

A music supervisor will also work with a composer or musician to create original music sometimes. They book a studio, hire the musicians and singers, and consult with sound engineers to create the original score.

The music supervisor is essentially the gatekeeper you must get past before a director considers your work.

WHAT IS A MUSIC LICENSING COMPANY?

Getting your music into the ears of music supervisors can be difficult. Music supervisors prefer working with dedicated sync agents and music licensing companies. Music licensing companies give you representation and their music placement knowledge. They also have trusted relationships with music supervisors, filmmakers, broadcasters, creative agencies, and brands. Moreover, a music licensing company will pitch your music to the buyer community, take care of sync licensing and music clearance, and make sure your music is labeled with the correct metadata.

Some top music licensing companies include:

Musicbed
Artlist
Music Vine
Marmoset
Soundstripe
TuneCore
Songtradr
Jingle Punks
Music Gateway
Audio Network

MUSIC LICENSING PREPARATION TIPS

Build a music portfolio and create a diverse selection of audio. Diversity is one of the most valuable features to have in the game industry.
Ensure your music is sounding the best it can. Avoid submitting unfinished or poor quality songs. Also, make sure your songs are finished, mixed down, and mastered. Send your best work!
Have instrumental versions of your songs. Most of the music licensed for video games are instrumentals.
Create an Electronic Press Kit (EPK) . An EPK features your artist bio, music, images, tour dates, relevant media, achievements, links to your social media or online presence, and contact details. It is your online media/marketing portfolio, designed to provide simple access to all your essential information.
Building relationships and networking in the gaming industry is always helpful. Get involved in the gaming community. Attend meetups and conventions, join online gaming forums or groups, contact game developers, music supervisors, music publishers, and anyone else involved in the game industry.
Play games to understand the functionality of music in games. Focus on all the areas playing music. For example, background music, opening and closing credits, moments when the music increases in energy or intensity, etc.
Submit your music to music libraries, stock music companies or online marketplaces. These online platforms curate and license an expanding library of royalty free music. Many of these companies also have a team of sync agents and music publishers that can help get your music discovered. Check out stock music websites like Pond5 , Premium Beat , and AudioJungle .
Research music licensing and publishing companies. Find the best services to represent you, protect your music rights, pitch your music, and handle licensing negotiations.
Learn the current sync licensing rates. Various factors determine license fees.

TAKEAWAYS

Immerse yourself in the world of gaming and video game music. But before going into sync licensing, it’s crucial that you know how the sync business works and how much a song is worth. Research music licensing and sync deals. Also, become familiar with the industry standards and trends, so you don’t miss an opportunity. Scoring the right sync deal will bring in new revenue streams, boost exposure, and grow your fanbase. Good luck!

HOW TO GET MORE STREAMS ON SPOTIFY AS AN UNSIGNED ARTIST

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 04:29:00 +0000

Learn how to get more streams on Spotify. Here are six tips on how to grow your fanbase and get Spotify plays as an unsigned artist.

HOW TO GET STREAMS ON SPOTIFY AND GROW YOUR FANBASE

The music streaming industry continues to grow at a rapid pace, and Spotify is at the forefront of streaming platforms. With millions of listeners, Spotify offers musicians an opportunity to advance their careers.

Spotify is a great place to promote your music, grow your fanbase, expand your exposure, and get your music heard worldwide. However, as an unsigned artist, you may have some trouble finding ways to generate Spotify streams.

This guide offers six tips on how to get more streams on Spotify as an unsigned artist.

1. GET YOUR MUSIC ON SPOTIFY

The first step to success is to submit your music to Spotify. However, Spotify doesn’t offer a way to upload music for free like SoundCloud, YouTube, and Bandcamp.

The best way to get your music on Spotify is through a record label or a digital music distribution service. If you’re signed to a label, they’ll take care of getting your music to Spotify.

However, if you’re an independent artist, you must arrange distribution yourself. Do this through music distribution companies such as DistroKid, TuneCore, CDBaby, etc. These services will deliver your music to Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, Amazon Music, TikTok, Pandora, YouTube, Deezer, and other major streaming platforms.

In addition, music distribution services collect and pay royalties generated from your music. They also offer digital marketing tools, music services, and artist resources. You’ll find everything needed to prepare, sell, license, and market your music. However, each music distribution service is unique. Do some research before choosing one.

2. CLAIM YOUR PROFILE WITH SPOTIFY FOR ARTISTS

Once your music is available on Spotify, it’s vital to create a verified artist profile. Verified artists can manage their profile, access music marketing tools, view audience stats, pitch new music to playlists, and more.

To get verified, you must claim your profile to access Spotify for Artists. Spotify for Artists is open to both artists and their teams.

The benefits of Spotify verification include:

A blue checkmark on your profile to let fans know your artist profile belongs to you.
Detailed analytics on your listeners and how your music is performing.
Access to customize your artist profile with a bio, images, tour dates, and featured music you love.
Ability to send your releases to Spotify’s editorial team or independent playlist curators.
Access to music promotion tools, new features, helpful resources, and more.

Having a verified Spotify artist profile that looks professional is crucial. It will boost your credibility and help attract Spotify playlist curators, fans, and other music industry professionals.

3. CREATE YOUR OWN SPOTIFY PLAYLISTS

Playlists and charts are the biggest drivers of streams on Spotify. They’re also one of the fastest ways to get your music heard by millions of potential fans. However, getting your music featured on Spotify’s popular playlists is difficult. The top playlists are controlled by Spotify’s editorial team or major labels.

The simplest way to generate more streams and gain followers is by making your own playlists.

Below are tips on how to make the most of your personalized playlists:

Create playlists that feature other artists’ music and your own. Supporting other artists and regularly sharing your playlists will increase the chances of having the favor returned.
Update your playlists regularly. Try to add or remove tracks every other week. Plus, your followers get notified each time you update your playlist. This approach will help drive listeners to your profile, which will increase followers and streams.
Pin playlists on your Spotify artist profile using the Artist Pick feature. Also, share your playlists on social media. Showcase what music you’re into, what you recommend, or highlight a playlist that includes your song.
Make your playlists unique by adding an image and a playlist name. Also, think about music for various moods and moments. For example, “Current Inspiration,” “Best Summer Tunes,” “All-Time Favorite Tracks,” etc.

Note: Curating and promoting playlists keeps you engaged with your listeners. Staying proactive is vital because Spotify algorithms monitor your activity. Active users with high performing streams are more likely to get their music placed on prominent playlists. Also, the more streams and followers you have, the higher you’ll appear in searches.

4. SUBMIT YOUR MUSIC TO PLAYLIST CURATORS

There are millions of playlists on Spotify generated by algorithms, Spotify’s editorial team, independent curators, and Spotify listeners.

Below are tips on how to get your music on Spotify playlists:

Create a Spotify for Artists account and verify your artist profile.
Submit unreleased music to the Spotify editorial team for playlist consideration. Learn more about pitching music to playlist editors here .
Pitch your music to independent Spotify playlist curators such as Soundplate , SubmitHub , Indiemono , and SpinGrey .
Email or message playlist curators and ask them to add your music.
Get your music signed by a record label with high-performing playlists.
Create themed playlists featuring music from other artists and regularly update your playlists.
Use Spotify as a social network. Follow artists you like and share their playlists. These artists may support you in return.
Share your music on social media, music blogs , email, and music-related websites to expand your exposure.
Pitch your upcoming, unreleased songs to music blogs, music publicists , and other influencers.
Encourage your fans to follow you on Spotify and listen to your music on the platform.
Release quality music that stands up to high-performing tracks on leading playlists.
Stay active, be proactive, promote your music, grow your followers, and increase your streams.

Note: It will be challenging to get your songs on high-performing Spotify playlists. It’s going to take hard work to build up your Spotify plays, listenership, and credibility.

Plus, Spotify’s algorithms reward artists with a strong following and high-performing music. The algorithms analyze listener activities such as plays, likes, shares, skips, and adds to playlists. Learn more about Spotify playlists here.

5. UTILIZE SPOTIFY PROMOTION TOOLS AND RESOURCES

Spotify offers various tools and resources to promote your music. Below are tips on how to grow your followers and increase Spotify streams.

PROMOTE YOUR MUSIC WITH SPOTIFY AD STUDIO

Promote a new release or an upcoming tour with tailored audio ads. Spotify Ad Studio is an advertising platform. Users can create and manage Spotify video or audio ad campaigns.

Get started in minutes. Simply submit a script, pick a background song, and upload your cover art. Spotify will then produce the ad complete with recorded voiceover. You can also set your targeting, budget, make edits, and view reporting.

The audio ads are 30 seconds or less with a clickable image shown for the ad’s duration. Spotify users hear the ads during breaks between songs on desktop and mobile devices.

EMBED A SPOTIFY FOLLOW BUTTON ON YOUR WEBSITE

Copy and paste the Spotify Follow Button widget HTML to a webpage. Fans who click your button become followers of your Spotify artist profile and music.

Also, Spotify will notify fans when you release new music or play gigs near them. It’s an easy way to get more exposure and more streams. Visit the Spotify Developer website for help.

EMBED A SPOTIFY PLAY BUTTON ON YOUR WEBSITE

Adding a Spotify Play Button to your website or social page enables fans to click Play and enjoy the music. You can create Play buttons for albums, tracks, artists, or playlists.

Spotify widgets work with any website that supports HTML editing. Simply copy and paste a short piece of code to any webpage. Visit the Spotify Developer website for help.

You can share Spotify links of a single song, album, or playlist.

Posting a link on your Facebook page will create a 30-second preview. You can also share a 15-second clip on Facebook Stories. Fans who tap on the preview get transferred to Spotify, where they can listen to the rest of the track.
Sharing a song link on Twitter will generate a playable Audio Card for your fans.
On Instagram stories, you and your fans can share Spotify albums, tracks, artists, and playlists that link to the Spotify app.

It’s easy to share your music on social channels!

CREATE A SPOTIFY PODCAST WITH ANCHOR

Anchor is an all-in-one platform where you can create, host, distribute, and monetize your podcast from any device. Plus, it’s 100% free!

Spotify supports video and audio podcasts. Podcasts are an excellent way to tap into new audiences, expand viewership, and boost exposure.

Also, podcasts enable artists to connect more meaningfully with their listeners and deepen audience engagement. It’s a great way to enrich the audio experience for both fans and creators.

Social media has proven to be a valuable asset for musicians. A strong social media presence is essential for promoting your music, engaging with fans, and expanding your fanbase.

Showcase your music on Spotify and engage with fans across all your social media profiles. Utilize Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, SoundCloud, and other music platforms.

Below are tips on how to leverage social media to get more streams on Spotify:

Post links to new releases and playlists on Spotify. Then encourage your fans to follow you on Spotify and listen to your songs.
Generate a Spotify Code and share it in your posts. A Spotify Code is like a QR Code fans can scan with their phone. It’s a quick way to share or access music on Spotify.
Keep fans up-to-date on your latest music, upcoming gigs, a new music video, and anything relevant.
Share stories and photos about your music, experiences in your music career, music production tips, etc. This approach will build your brand identity, encourage engagement, and grow a relationship with your fans.
Join Facebook and Reddit groups where people share music and offer feedback to other artists.
Use direct marketing strategies. Then track the responses, engagement, and streams to know which tactics produce the best results.

It’s vital to connect with your fans and show them you care. Don’t use social media just to promote your music and tour schedule. Use these platforms to interact with your fans. Develop a personal connection with them.

CONCLUSION

Music streaming is advancing the music game. The Spotify platform is one of the best places to share your music with the world and grow your fanbase.

However, success will be challenging. It’s important to stay proactive, release great music, and engage with your audience.

It’s also crucial to grow your brand organically. You’ll find more success and a feeling of achievement when fans have a genuine interest and appreciation of your music. Avoid buying plays or followers if you want to reach real success.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT A SPLIT SHEET

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 04:23:00 +0000

What is a songwriter split sheet? Learn how to manage split sheets when collaborating with other artists to ensure you get paid for your work.

WHAT IS A SPLIT SHEET?

Songwriter split sheets are an integral part of the music business. A split sheet is a written agreement that identifies each contributor to a song and establishes ownership percentages amongst them. The agreed percentages determine how much each contributor will receive from the royalties generated by their music.

Split sheets are necessary for every song you write with collaborators. They ensure everyone involved in the creative process is properly credited and paid for the work they contributed.

It’s also important to note that split sheets are not a copyright agreement. Copyright ownership is different.

WHY IS A SPLIT SHEET IMPORTANT?

Split sheets are an essential safeguard for all co-creators of a song. They ensure everyone involved in the creation process receives credit and compensation for their work. Split sheets can also save creators from a potential legal headache because it requires them to work out an agreement and establish ownership in writing.

Under U.S. Copyright Law, any co-written content without a written agreement will be equally divided depending on the number of people involved. Without a split sheet, contributing producers and songwriters risk receiving less ownership or revenue for the content they created. This can lead to ugly disputes among each contributor and potential legal battles.

Also, a Performing Rights Organization (PRO), record label, music publisher, music licensor, and any other third-party using the song can hold royalty payments until the conflict resolves. Moreover, contributors risk not getting credit or royalty payments if a company does not know who, or how much to pay.

HOW TO DETERMINE THE OWNERSHIP PERCENTAGE

The final percentage splits are negotiated and agreed upon by all parties involved. The total of all the split percentages must equal 100%. There are different approaches collaborators take to divide split percentages. For example, you can split the rights evenly among each co-writer, or give each person a percentage according to their contribution.

Giving each contributor equal ownership is the safest route to avoid confrontation. Also, treating everyone equally will help form lasting relationships with other artists. It may even boost the chances of them wanting to work with you again.

Determining splits according to a collaborator’s contributions to a song is trickier. Sometimes, not every contributor makes an equal contribution. Or, the contributions by co-writers are not equally significant in the song. For example, one co-writer may add a small part of the lead. Also, the same creator may contribute to both the songwriting and producing process.

Various other factors can further complicate matters. That’s why it’s crucial to figure out splits early. Make sure everyone who contributed to the creative process is on the same page.

WHEN TO CREATE A SPLIT SHEET?

Co-creators often cringe thinking about negotiating ownership and royalty splits. However, navigating this conversation is a necessary practice to ensure you get paid correctly for your work. More important, turning that conversation into a written document proactively protects your rights. It can also save you from a potential legal battle.

It’s best to decide on songwriter splits and get them in writing early in the creative process or as soon as you’ve finished a song. Negotiations may get messy the longer you wait. It’s also easier to negotiate a split sheet before the song starts generating royalties or opportunities arise.

HOW TO CREATE A SPLIT SHEET

There are three ways to create a split sheet. The latest and most convenient way is with an online service. For example, the free SPLITS app from Create Music Group makes songwriter splits simple.

The SPLITS app helps eliminate songwriting disputes between producers, songwriters, and artists. Collaborators can quickly generate and sign a split agreement in a non-confrontational way, with a few clicks.

You can also find basic split sheet templates online or create your own. A basic split sheet should include:

The date
The song title
Legal names of all contributing writers involved
Role in the song creation (producer, songwriter, etc.)
Ownership percentage for each contributor
Specific contributions (lyrics, hook, melody, beats, etc.)
Record label (if available)
Performing Rights Organization (PRO) (if available)
Publishing company (if available)
Mailing addresses and contact information
Signature of each contributor

Ensure each contributing writer fills out all the information that applies to them. Also, register with a Performing Rights Organization (PRO) such as ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC. A PRO helps songwriters and publishers get paid for the use of their music by collecting performance royalties on their behalf.

CONCLUSION

As a creator, it’s essential to understand the value of your work, especially before it’s published. Also, be proactive and take control of the conversation by using split sheets to secure your fair share of the revenue. Moreover, start negotiation splits early to avoid future disputes. And if you’re having trouble coming up with a fair agreement, get a lawyer!

HOW MUSIC ROYALTIES WORK IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 04:08:00 +0000

Learn how music royalties work and how to get paid. This guide breaks down the complexities of music royalties and music copyrights in the music business.

WHAT ARE MUSIC ROYALTIES?

Music royalties are payments that go to recording artists, songwriters, composers, publishers, and other copyright holders for the right to use their intellectual property. U.S. copyright laws give artists these exclusive rights to their work.

Music Royalties are also generated for various types of licensing and usage. The four main royalty types include mechanical, public performance, synchronization, and print music.

The music industry relies on these royalties as a primary form of payment to musicians. Contracts then define royalty agreements between the creator and the distributor.

WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF MUSIC ROYALTIES?

There are four different types of music royalties. Each type also has separate and distinct copyrights. The four sources of royalty revenue in the music industry are:

1. MECHANICAL ROYALTIES

Mechanical royalties generate music income for the physical or digital reproduction and distribution of copyrighted works. This applies to all music formats such as vinyl, CD, cassette, digital downloads, and streaming services.

For example, record labels pay mechanical royalties to songwriters every time they press a CD of their music. A copyright owner can also collect mechanical royalties from a digital music distributor service if they are independent.

2. PUBLIC PERFORMANCE ROYALTIES

Public performance royalties generate music income for copyrighted works performed, recorded, played, or streamed in public. This includes terrestrial radio, television, bars, restaurants, clubs, live concerts, music streaming services, and anywhere else your music plays in public.

Performance Rights Organizations (PROs) collect performance royalties. PRO organizations such as ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC negotiate licenses for public performances and monitor their usage. They also collect and distribute the royalties generated to the rights holders.

To collect public performance royalties, you must first register with a Performance Rights Organization. Be aware, the songwriter and publisher of the work split these royalties 50/50. Therefore, you must register as both the writer and publisher to receive 100% of the performance royalties.

3. SYNCHRONIZATION ROYALTIES (SYNC)

Synchronization royalties generate income for copyrighted music paired or ‘synced’ with visual media. Sync licenses grant the right to use copyrighted songs in films, television, commercials, video games, online streaming, advertisements, music videos, and any other visual media.

However, a synchronization license does not include the right to use an existing recording with audiovisual media such as a YouTube video. A licensee will need a master use license before using copyrighted music with a new audiovisual project. This is an agreement between the master recording owner, such as a record label, and the person seeking permission to use the recording.

Any use of protected music in an audiovisual project will need a master use license and a sync license. It doesn’t matter if it’s a full song or short sample. For example, you need both a master and sync agreement before syncing up the latest Jauz track with your wakeboarding video on YouTube.

4. PRINT MUSIC ROYALTIES

Print royalties are the least common form of payment a copyright holder receives. This royalty applies to copyrighted music transcribed to a print piece such as sheet music and then distributed.

Additionally, the copyright holder pays out these fees based on the number of copies made of the printed piece.

HOW DO MUSIC ROYALTIES WORK?

Music royalties and copyrights is a complex subject. This guide outlines the basic rights and usages of musical compositions.

TYPES OF SONG COPYRIGHTS

Music copyrights have two components: master rights and publishing rights.

Master rights belong to the owner of a master sound recording. A master recording is an original song or sound used for reproduction and distribution. Master rights typically belong to either the artist(s), record label, recording studio, or any other party who financed the recording.
Publishing rights belong to the owner of the actual music composition. The publishing side of music refers to the notes, melodies, chords, rhythms, lyrics, and any other piece of original music.

WHAT ARE THE EXCLUSIVE RIGHTS OF COPYRIGHT?

Copyright law grants six exclusive rights to control the use and distribution of copyrighted work. The copyright owner has exclusive rights to:

Reproduce and make copies of the original work. For example, a digital music download and physical formats like a CD or vinyl.
Prepare derivative works based on the original work. For example, a new original product that includes aspects of an existing song. This consists of a cover song, remix, or any altered version of an existing song.
Distribute copyrighted work to the public. For example, release the song through a music distributor, digital download, or record label.
Perform copyrighted work publicly. For example, live concerts or live performances in a public setting.
Play copyrighted work publicly. For example, through music streaming, satellite radio, music videos, FM radio, a TV show, etc.
Display the copyrighted work publicly. A public display means to show a visual copy of the work to others. For example, sheet music or photos from performance pieces.

The copyright owner can transfer these exclusive rights or parts. The two methods of transfer are licensing and assignment. Transfers must be in writing and signed by the copyright owner or an authorized agent.

WHO GETS MUSIC ROYALTIES AND ADMINISTERS THEM?

The following roles either receive or distribute royalties for copyrighted music:

1. SONGWRITERS

Songwriters are those who write both the music and lyrics for a song. They receive either mechanical, performance, or sync royalties depending on the usage of their recordings.

If multiple songwriters contributed to a song, they would need a split sheet. A songwriter split sheet is a written agreement that identifies each contributor to a song and establishes ownership percentages amongst them. The agreed percentages determine how much each contributor will receive from the royalties generated by their music.

2. PUBLISHERS

The publisher is the person or company responsible for ensuring copyright holders receive payment for using their music. For example, a music publisher will obtain the songwriting copyright in exchange for royalty privileges.

A publishing company will also issue licenses for using music they represent. They also monitor them and collect licensing fees. These publishing royalties get split between the publisher and the songwriter.

3. RECORD LABELS

Record labels market and distribute an artist’s original work. They often have the master rights to a recorded song, but not the publishing rights.

Record labels generate income from mechanical and public performance royalties. They issue contracts that allow them to exploit the recordings in exchange for royalty payments over a set length of time. The artist then receives a flat rate or percentage of these record label royalties.

4. DIGITAL MUSIC DISTRIBUTOR

A digital music distributor collects mechanical royalties for every music purchase, download, or stream. They also collect public performance royalties generated from the public performance of your song, such as a live performance or radio broadcast.

5. PERFORMING ARTISTS

A performing artist is anyone who performs the songwriter’s original work. Performing artists do not have publishing rights unless they are also the songwriter.

Public performances of copyrighted music generate performance royalties for songwriters. These fees are often collected by a Performing Rights Organization such as ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC.

6. PERFORMING RIGHTS ORGANIZATION (PRO)

A Performing Rights Organization collects public performance royalties and distributes them to the songwriter and music publisher. These organizations also monitor performances and broadcasting of registered music played in public.

The PROs in the United States include ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC. You must register with one to collect performance royalties.

7. MECHANICAL RIGHTS AGENCY

Mechanical rights agencies manage mechanical licensing rights for the music publisher. They also issue those rights to anyone reproducing and distributing copyrighted musical compositions.

These agencies often charge a set percentage of gross mechanical royalties collected for their services. In the U.S., the Harry Fox Agency is the group that issues mechanical licenses and collects royalties on behalf of the rights holder. A percentage of gross mechanical royalties collected are then paid to the publisher of the song or music composition.

8. SYNC LICENSING AGENCY

Sync licensing agencies acquire the rights from record labels and music publishers to issue licenses for syncing music with visual media. They also distribute royalties for sync licenses to whoever owns the master recording rights.

Music users typically work with a music supervisor for sync licensing. A music supervisor oversees all music-related aspects of television, film, advertising, video games, and other existing or emerging visual media platforms. They also serve as middlemen between the artists and the companies or directors licensing the music.

THE BREAKDOWN OF COPYRIGHT AND LICENSING

Here is a brief breakdown of the copyright and licensing uses covered in this guide:

Every song has two copyrights: Composition rights and master rights. Music composition copyrights include the underlying music and any lyrics. Master copyrights include the reproduction and distribution of the master recording.

There’s a difference between licensing and royalties. A master license grants a music user permission to use intellectual property owned by someone else. Whereas royalties are the payments generated from using that intellectual property.

Artists issue exclusive rights to a publishing company for the use of their recordings in exchange for royalties. The music publisher may then release the recording or issue rights to either a record label or mechanical rights agency.

Additionally, artists can assign the master sound recording copyright to a record label. This agreement allows the label to reproduce, distribute, and license that recording in exchange for royalties.

Lastly, all parties involved in the production receive a percentage of royalty payments. The royalty amounts are often negotiated upfront and then defined in a legally binding agreement.

CONCLUSION

Various music copyright usages generate royalties. New royalty streams also emerge as the music industry and technology continue to evolve. They protect your music while also providing a revenue stream.

However, learning how to navigate the complexities of royalties can seem overwhelming. I hope this guide gave you a better understanding and the confidence to enter the music business.

Vestibule Trap - Blogs

DIGITAL MUSIC DISTRIBUTION: HOW TO SELL YOUR MUSIC ONLINE

WHAT IS DIGITAL MUSIC DISTRIBUTION?

DIGITAL MUSIC DISTRIBUTION SERVICES

HOW DIGITAL MUSIC DISTRIBUTION WORKS

DIGITAL MUSIC DISTRIBUTION PRICING

THE BEST MUSIC DISTRIBUTION COMPANIES

THE TAKEAWAY

HOW TO LICENSE MUSIC FOR VIDEO GAMES

HOW TO GET YOUR SONGS PLACED IN VIDEO GAMES

WHAT IS MUSIC LICENSING?

LICENSE MUSIC FOR VIDEO GAMES

WHAT IS A SYNCHRONIZATION LICENSE (SYNC)?

WHAT IS A MASTER USE LICENSE?

BENEFITS OF A SYNC LICENSE

WHAT IS A MUSIC SUPERVISOR?

WHAT IS A MUSIC LICENSING COMPANY?

MUSIC LICENSING PREPARATION TIPS

TAKEAWAYS

HOW TO GET MORE STREAMS ON SPOTIFY AS AN UNSIGNED ARTIST

HOW TO GET STREAMS ON SPOTIFY AND GROW YOUR FANBASE

1. GET YOUR MUSIC ON SPOTIFY

2. CLAIM YOUR PROFILE WITH SPOTIFY FOR ARTISTS

3. CREATE YOUR OWN SPOTIFY PLAYLISTS

4. SUBMIT YOUR MUSIC TO PLAYLIST CURATORS

5. UTILIZE SPOTIFY PROMOTION TOOLS AND RESOURCES

PROMOTE YOUR MUSIC WITH SPOTIFY AD STUDIO

MAKE A SPOTIFY CODE AND SHARE IT WITH YOUR FANS

EMBED A SPOTIFY FOLLOW BUTTON ON YOUR WEBSITE

EMBED A SPOTIFY PLAY BUTTON ON YOUR WEBSITE

SHARE YOUR SPOTIFY LINK ON FACEBOOK, TWITTER, AND INSTAGRAM

CREATE A SPOTIFY PODCAST WITH ANCHOR

6. PROMOTE YOUR MUSIC ON SOCIAL MEDIA

CONCLUSION

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT A SPLIT SHEET

WHAT IS A SPLIT SHEET?

WHY IS A SPLIT SHEET IMPORTANT?

HOW TO DETERMINE THE OWNERSHIP PERCENTAGE

WHEN TO CREATE A SPLIT SHEET?

HOW TO CREATE A SPLIT SHEET

CONCLUSION

HOW MUSIC ROYALTIES WORK IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY

WHAT ARE MUSIC ROYALTIES?

WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF MUSIC ROYALTIES?

1. MECHANICAL ROYALTIES

2. PUBLIC PERFORMANCE ROYALTIES

3. SYNCHRONIZATION ROYALTIES (SYNC)

4. PRINT MUSIC ROYALTIES

HOW DO MUSIC ROYALTIES WORK?

TYPES OF SONG COPYRIGHTS

WHAT ARE THE EXCLUSIVE RIGHTS OF COPYRIGHT?

WHO GETS MUSIC ROYALTIES AND ADMINISTERS THEM?

1. SONGWRITERS

2. PUBLISHERS

3. RECORD LABELS

4. DIGITAL MUSIC DISTRIBUTOR

5. PERFORMING ARTISTS

6. PERFORMING RIGHTS ORGANIZATION (PRO)

7. MECHANICAL RIGHTS AGENCY

8. SYNC LICENSING AGENCY

THE BREAKDOWN OF COPYRIGHT AND LICENSING

CONCLUSION