Your work in thousands of videos: the power of micro-synchronizations
What are micro-synchronizations, and how can they benefit songwriters and composers?
Music no longer lives only on stages or streaming platforms — it now goes viral in TikToks, Reels, and Shorts. Behind every short clip that uses your song, there’s a new kind of license transforming the industry: micro-synchronizations.
What is a micro-synchronization?
A micro-synchronization (or micro-sync) happens when a musical work is used in short-form audiovisual content, like videos on social media.
Unlike traditional syncs, used in films, series, or ads, micro-syncs are small-scale licenses granted in large volumes, generating income through the massive use of music online.
Every time someone uses your track in a TikTok video, for example, a micro-synchronization occurs. While each use pays very little, the cumulative impact can be huge, especially if your music goes viral.
Where do micro-synchronizations happen?
Today, the main micro-sync spaces are digital platforms:
- TikTok: Millions of daily videos include licensed music thanks to global deals with publishers and labels.
- Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts: Both allow automatic synchronization of songs with short clips.
- Live streams and UGC (User Generated Content): From Twitch streams to YouTube vlogs or reviews, any content that uses music can generate royalties.
In all these cases, platforms sign agreements with publishers, record labels, and collecting societies to ensure that songwriters receive royalties for the use of their works.
How are micro-sync royalties collected?
Micro-synchronizations generate performance and digital reproduction royalties, which are distributed to rights holders (songwriters, composers, and publishers) through collecting societies or direct platform agreements. Although individual payments are small, the key is volume, thousands of videos and millions of plays can turn into meaningful long-term income.
That’s why it’s essential to ensure your works are properly registered with your collecting society and publisher. Only then can you receive payments when your music is used in viral videos or other digital content.
Micro-synchronizations open a new door for songwriters: your music can reach new audiences, go viral, and generate royalties at the same time.
At ONE Publishing, we work to help our authors make the most of these opportunities across global platforms. From proper catalog management to digital royalty tracking, our goal is to ensure that every use of your work translates into value for you.
