Licensing 101: How to Music License for Films, Ads, and Games
Learn how to license your music and start earning from sync deals. Discover how to prep your songs, pitch them right, and get featured in films, ads, and video games.
What Is Music Licensing?
Music licensing is the process of granting permission for your music to be used in different media — from movies and commercials to video games and trailers. When you license your music, you’re creating new revenue streams while expanding your audience.
A sync license (short for synchronization) allows your track to be paired with visuals — and it can pay handsomely. Think of it as turning your song into a silent salesman working in the background of a Netflix scene, Nike ad, or viral mobile game.
How to Make Your Songs Ready for Sync
Before pitching, your track needs to be sync-ready. Here’s how to prepare:
- Instrumental Version: Always have a clean instrumental on hand.
- Clear Rights: Make sure you fully own your masters and publishing — or have all contributors sign a split sheet.
- No Samples (Unless Cleared): Unlicensed samples = automatic rejection.
- High Quality WAVs: Have both MP3 and WAV formats ready to deliver.
- Metadata: Tag your files with your name, contact, BPM, genre, and mood.
This preparation shows you take your craft seriously and increases your chances when you license your music to top companies.
Where to Pitch Your Tracks
Here’s where you can start pitching and licensing today:
- Music Libraries: Sites like AudioJungle, Epidemic Sound, and Musicbed
- Sync Agencies: These reps pitch your songs directly to media buyers
- TV/Film Supervisors: Found on LinkedIn or through IMDB Pro
- Stock Music Platforms: Ideal for background tracks (Pond5, Artlist)
- Direct Submissions: Some games and indie films accept direct licensing
Consistency is key. The more places your track lives, the more opportunities to license your music effectively.
✅ Start Today: 5 Platforms to License Your Music
Here are five platforms where you can submit your music right now:
Explore, create an account, and upload a sync-ready track today.
🎯 Want 1-on-1 help getting your music licensed?
I work directly with artists to prepare, pitch, and land real sync placements.
Click here to work with me or shoot me a message and let’s talk strategy.
You May Also Like:
Email Marketing for Musicians: How to Promote Your Music
Learn how to use email marketing as a musician to grow your fanbase, promote your music, and build real connections
How to Use Autotune Properly: A Quick Guide for Artists
Learn how to use autotune the right way with practical tips for artists. Discover how to get a pro sound at home and avoid common mistakes.
Artist Branding: How to Build a Visual Identity as an Musician
Create a visual identity as an independent artist. Learn key artist branding strategies to stand out, connect with fans, and grow your career
Email Marketing for Musicians: How to Grow Streams and Fans
Discover how email marketing helps musicians grow streams and connect with fans directly — even with a small list.