Reproducing a musical work for, and sometimes using, a pre-existing sound recording in audiovisual media. a An original musical composition with or without lyrics. or Typically, the recorded performance of a musical work protected as a phonogram under copyright law. with A form of communication incorporating moving images and sound, such as films, TV, and video games. can be a powerful way for Anyone who contributes to creating or performing a musical work, a live performance, or a sound recording. to get their music in front of a bigger audience, earn Money paid for the right to use a musical work, performance or sound recording, typically but not always in the form of recurring payments, and increase their exposure. It’s not unusual for a creator to get a big bump up in their career from having one of their musical works or sound recordings used on a popular TV show or in other audiovisual media.
Depending on whether just the musical work is used with the audiovisual media or a pre-existing sound recording is also used, a A license to use a musical work with visual media in a so-called audiovisual work, such as movies, videos, TV shows, commercials, video games, or websites. can include either or both the The right to use a musical work with visual media, for example, a movie, TV program, video game, or website. for the use of the musical work and the The rights to the ownership of, and all other rights in, a sound recording. needed for the use of the sound recording. Learn more about this in our Music Creators' Rights topic.
Here are some ways creators can go about getting their sound recordings synchronized with audiovisual media:
Work with a music licensing agency
There are several music licensing agencies that offer to help creators get their musical works and sound recordings synchronized with audiovisual media. These agencies have relationships with A person who selects and obtains licenses for the use of music works in film or television. and A company responsible for the development and filming of visual content such as TV, film, music videos, and video games. who To submit a song to be considered for use or inclusion, for example, in a curated playlist, for a licensing opportunity, or for a sound recording. on behalf of the creators they represent.
Create musical works specifically for sync
Some creators write musical works specifically for sync opportunities. This can involve researching current trends in the media industry and creating musical works that fit the specific needs of different audiovisual media projects.
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