Question 1

How do I get my music licensed?

Caleb J. Murphy · Accepted Answer

The best way to get your music on TV shows, in commercials, in video games, or in films is to work with a music licensing company. They have relationships with music supervisors (the people who choose the music for visual media) and they execute contracts on your behalf.

Question 2

Which is better ASCAP or BMI?

Caleb J. Murphy · Accepted Answer

We can’t say one of these Performance Rights Organizations is better than the other. They both collect performance royalties from placements you’ve gotten in visual media that’s aired publicly. It’s best to see the benefits each offer and make the decision that’s best for you.

Question 3

How long is a music license good for?

Caleb J. Murphy · Accepted Answer

This is something that will be listed in your licensing contract. The length of time the licensor can use your song can be in perpetuity, it can be a one-time use (which means you get paid if the licensor wants to use it again), and it can be for a specific time frame. These details will be in the agreement, which you should read in its entirety and even hire a music lawyer to review before you sign anything.

Question 4

How can I publish my own music?

Alison Stolpa · Accepted Answer

Publishing your music can seem complicated but there are really only two things you have to do:

Register your songs with the Library of Congress
Join a PRO (performing rights organization) such as BMI, ASCAP, or SESAC that will collect royalties from your music sales.

Question 5

Should I publish my own music?

Alison Stolpa · Accepted Answer

Publishing your own music means a lot more work than leaving it to a traditional publishing company. You’ll definitely have to handle more of the day-to-day administrative/business duties and put more effort into promoting your music. However, you’ll retain creative control, as well as a larger percentage of profits from your music sales.
So the question is: are you super busy and need someone else to get you leads on music sales and handle the behind-the-scenes operations? Or are you looking to save money and retain more of your rights as a music creator?

Question 6

Do you have to copyright your music?

Alison Stolpa · Accepted Answer

If your music is picking up traction and gaining an audience outside of just your family and friends, it’s time to think about copyrighting your tunes. Copyright will give you legal ownership and help you eventually collect royalties.
Lots of people will tell you that all you have to do to ensure your copyright is to write it down or record it. While important, this isn’t the whole story. You MUST also fill out the required paperwork and submit your copyright request to the US Copyright Office.
For a more in-depth look at the process, check out our blog on this topic.

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