How to Organize Your Music for Sync Licensing: Essential Tips

Do you want your music featured in movies, TV shows, commercials, or video games? To achieve this, your music needs to be well-organized and ready for sync licensing.

At ONE Publishing, we manage your music copyrights and help you prepare for synchronization opportunities. Follow these essential tips to ensure your music is ready for sync placements:

1. Prepare All Versions of Your Songs for Sync Licensing To boost your chances of success in Sync Licensing, it’s crucial to have high-quality, well-mixed, and mastered versions of your songs. Make sure to include:

• Original Version: The final mix of your song.
• Instrumental Version: Ideal for sync placements that require music without vocals.
• Clean Version: If your song contains explicit lyrics, have a clean version available for broader licensing opportunities.

2. Label Your Music Files Correctly for Sync Licensing: Labeling your files is key to making your music easily identifiable for music supervisors. Use a standard file naming convention such as:

• Example: ArtistName_SongTitle_Version
• JuanPerez_HappyDays_Instrumental

3. Document Your Agreements with Collaborators Every song typically has multiple rights holders: the recording rights (artists) and the composition rights (songwriters and composers). Make sure all agreements are documented to avoid discrepancies and ensure everyone’s share is clear.
4. Organize and Store Your Music Metadata Metadata is critical for sync licensing, including vital information like the composer, producer, and recording date. Proper metadata helps ensure your music can be tracked and licensed efficiently.
5. Confirm Usage Rights for Third-Party Music If you’ve used third-party audio elements purchased or leased online, double-check that the usage rights allow you to license your song for sync opportunities.

Sync Licensing Checklist 

Before you submit your music for sync opportunities, make sure that:

• All music files are organized and labeled correctly.
• Metadata is complete and readily accessible.
• Agreements with collaborators are documented, covering 100% of the composition and recording rights (master rights).
• You can easily access contact information for all involved parties.
• Usage rights for any third-party music are confirmed and in compliance.

Success in Sync Licensing requires more than just organization—it’s about having the right connections. At ONE Publishing, we work to open doors and bring synchronization opportunities directly to your music. Join us and maximize the potential of your songs in the sync licensing world!