- Author Profile Brent McCrossen
Music In Film or TV
So, would you like to get your music in film or TV? If you and your band write good songs, in any style, there is more opportunity than ever to get that music placed in some form of media. The fact is that media has expanded and now touches every part of our daily lives. Once upon a time, the TV and Movie Theatres were the only avenues for visual entertainment. Those days are long gone, and the dawn of a new era is providing unlimited opportunities for anyone with talent and good music.
People are watching as much “TV” on their cell phones and laptops as they are on actual TV sets. They’re hearing more music on commercial websites and video games than they are on radio. The times are changing and a gigantic door is being pushed open.
The amount of movies, commercials, video games, and TV shows being produced every day is staggering. Every one of these productions requires music and every one of these productions presents an opportunity for independent artist to gain exposure and profit from their work.
There are several key points to getting a successful music placement. For an independent artist to secure placement of their music in film or TV requires more than luck. It requires knowledge, skill, and, above all, quality music.
We’ll define the keys to successful music placement in this article but don’t stop here. There is plenty to find out about this industry and the more you understand 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 LA beach scene might have some hip-hop or a club scene may have some electronica and big beats blasting in the background. Still, 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 when there may be an exception, but for the most part, this rule is pretty reliable.
Have The Goods
Increase your odds of placement of your music in film by having good songs that are WELL recorded. Creating a great song is no easy task. It takes taste, musicianship, and sensibility. However, once you’ve done that, you need to ensure 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
Music supervisors are busy people but they DO listen to music that is sent to them. However, you need to make their job easier if you want a successful music placement.
Put a post-it note on the outside of the CD and list the feel and subject matter of the tracks.
For 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 (artist) 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, each CD in a certain genre.
Last but not least, remember to put your contact info on the post-it note, and on the CD itself, or at least the liner notes. One sheets get lost. By assuring music supervisors can access all the information they need in one location you increase your odds of getting a successful music placement.
Get Your Music In Film Or TV - Conclusion
Granted, this is just a snapshot of the process but the above listed 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.
Sync up and be Heard!
Brent
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