HOW TO GET YOUR MUSIC IN FILM and TV

By Brent McCrossen

There are a number of keys to successful music placement in television or the movies. For independent artists to license their music to media, it requires knowledge, skill, persistence and, above all, quality music. We’ll define the keys to successful music placement over a series of three articles, but don’t stop looking for

information. There is plenty to know about this industry, and the more informed you are the more likely you are to succeed.

Know the project

Many different films and TV shows have various musical themes running through them. A car driving down the street in a L.A. might have some hip-hop and a club scene may have electronica and big beats in the background. When submitting music for media, make sure that it is appropriate for the feel of the scene. Common

sense tells you that a movie taking place during the turn of the century isn’t going to be using alternative industrial music and you probably won’t be hearing any punk music either. There are certain times where there may be an exception, but for the most part this rule is pretty reliable.

Have the goods

Increase your odds of placement by having good songs that are well recorded. Creating a great song is no easy task. However, once you’ve done that you need to assure that it’s recorded well. Levels, the use of digital sounds and mastering are all important parts of creating a well-rounded product. You could have the best song in

the world, but if it isn’t well recorded, it’s not getting placed.

It’s all in the packaging

If you make the music supervisor’s job easier, it increases the chances they’ll listen to your work. Put a post-it note on the outside of the CD and list the feel and subject matter of the tracks.

Example

Track 1. Style: Upbeat pop rock / Keywords: surfing beach life

Track 2. Style: Heavy driving rock / Keyword: losing a loved one

Additionally, make sure the spine of your CD has your band name and defines your style. If you’re a composer with a large catalog, send a couple of CDs that showcase the different styles you’ve crafted.

Finally, remember to put your contact info on the post-it note and on the CD itself. By assuring the music supervisor can access all your information, you increase your odds of placement.

This is only a snapshot of the process, but these tips are easy “keys” to successful music placement. By providing great songs that are well recorded, and packaging the material in a way that is easy to reference, you’re well on your way to success.

Brent McCrossen is President of Audiosocket — a music licensing agency the represents all types of music for placement in film, TV, video games, advertising and new media