June 18

Is Sync the New Radio? The Resurgence of Catalog Tracks Through Major Placements

It’s no secret that sync serves as a powerful tool for artists to expand their audience reach. If someone watches their favourite TV show and hears a song that moves them, not only will they now be nostalgic for that song, but they’ll be Shazamming the audio to find it on Spotify to enjoy it later.

One of the most striking benefits of sync placements is their promotional power, which goes beyond highlighting a specific track. In fact, older songs can experience a resurgence in popularity many years after their initial release, leading to increased streams and views across the artist's entire catalog. According to a study by Spotify, a single viral track or sync placement can result in a 70% boost in streams for the artist's complete body of work [source: Paul Resnikoff, Digital Music News, Jan 12, 2023].

A recent example being “Running Up That Hill” that became popular again because of Stranger Things. “Catalog” is defined as song released +18 months ago. This catalog song was released a whopping 40 years ago.

Read more here and here on Digital Music News.

Sync Tip Of The Week: The Four Red Flags in Sync Licensing Contracts

There are tens of thousands of sync music libraries, sync agents, music supervisors, sync agents, music coordinators and sync/publishing record labels in the world.

When you pitch your music to them, and get a reply back - it’s important to review the deal/contract carefully. Watch out for vague terms, no termination clauses, unfair compensation and no timeline for the deal (what’s the duration of the license?).

Remember, if you have questions about your sync contracts, don’t ever be afraid to open up dialogue with the person/organization you’re planning to sign your music with. Having good communication and forming strong relationships is paramount in this industry. You want to be on the same wavelength as the people you chose to work with.

New Selling The Soundtrack Podcast Episode

We just interviewed Sal Verma on the Selling The Soundtrack podcast! Sal Verma (Sound of Kalima), a skilled music producer, composer, and audio engineer, has achieved notable placements on ABC, Fox, ITV, and BBC, with his music signed to Universal, Ninja Tune, Bibliotheque, Bigger Story Music, Freedom Music Group and more. In this episode, Sal highlights the importance of collaboration and strong human relationships in sync licensing, shares mindset philosophies to stay on track, discusses using sync as an artist marketing plan, and emphasizes the need to believe in your expertise. He also recounts his journey and offers practical advice for new musicians entering the sync industry.

Tune in here to Selling The Soundtrack podcast and hear Sal’s journey in sync and how you can break into it too!

Not-to-Miss Events

On November 9, 2024, SHADES of Sync is the place to be for anyone with sync on their mind. Picture an event jam-packed with everything from Sync Licensing 101 to the secrets behind Indie Sync on a Budget, not to mention some killer networking over lunch. Don’t sleep on it – check out this link for more info.

Resources to succeed in sync

• Check out Text FX an AI powered tool for rappers and songwriters. If you need inspiration during your next writing session, check it out (it’s free)

Questions or anything you want to learn more about in sync? 🧐 Let me know here: https://www.sellingthesoundtrack.com/contact-us

Keep hustlin’ guys, you got this and I’m here for you! See you in the next podcast episode and email newsletter :)