As a seasoned musician, our original intention was to guide aspiring songwriters on the path to professionalism. However, we recognized that delving into well-known tips, such as refining your craft, grasping fundamental music theory, and establishing valuable connections, might not bring novel insights. Instead, we've chosen to immerse ourselves in the intricate process of marketing a song as a professional songwriter. What does it truly entail to sell a song? Who could be your potential buyer? How do you effectively pitch your song? All these aspects will unfold throughout this comprehensive article.
The notion of 'selling a song' may initially seem deceptive, as it seldom involves selling the song itself. Rather, it signifies deriving revenue from your songwriting endeavors. This could materialize through securing a licensing deal, entering a publishing agreement, or engaging in work-for-hire. In most cases, you retain the copyright ownership of your song, a concept we will explore further.
Instead of immediately delving into the intricacies of various deal types, let's commence at the inception of your 'song-selling' journey. What follows after you've composed a song?
Record a Demo:
The optimal method to showcase your song is through a professionally recorded demo. This recording should illuminate your song's potential, delineating its rhythm, melody, vocals, and conveying your production and instrumental concepts. While the demo need not be a polished final product, meticulous attention to detail is imperative. Ensure pitch-perfect vocals, accurate rhythm, and, most crucially, high-quality sound. The good news is, a home recording studio can suffice, and we've got articles on setting up a budget-friendly studio for beginners.
Understand Music Copyright:
Music copyright, a complex subject, warrants consultation with legal experts when uncertainty arises. In most countries, a song is automatically protected by local copyright laws once created and fixed in a tangible form. Registration may not be mandatory in many places, but exceptions like the USA exist. Here, registering with the US Copyright Office offers additional legal safeguards, especially in cases of copyright infringement.
Recording Copyright vs. Songwriting Copyright:
Every recorded song embodies two primary copyrights - sound recording copyright and songwriting copyright. The former protects the recording of the song's performance, while the latter safeguards the musical composition, including melody, lyrics, notes, chords, and rhythms.
Register Your Song with a PRO:
A Performance Rights Organization (PRO) collects and distributes performance royalties on behalf of its members. Research local PROs thoroughly to decide which to join, keeping in mind that affiliation with only one PRO is possible. Register with a PRO when your song is destined for streaming platforms, radio, TV, or public performances. PRO memberships offer not just royalties but additional perks like travel discounts and networking opportunities.
Explore Various Revenue Streams for Your Song:
Early on, your focus may be on selling your written song in any feasible way. However, delving into diverse monetization avenues can help identify your future goals. Familiarize yourself with licensing deals, publishing agreements, and work-for-hire scenarios.
Licensing Deal:
This agreement, also known as a synchronization (sync) license, permits others to use your song in various contexts. A sync fee is paid upfront, and additional performance royalties may follow each time the song is publicly performed.
Publishing Deal:
Unlike licensing deals, publishing agreements often involve songs yet to be penned under the contract. Acquiring such a deal is challenging and typically requires an established career. Three common types of publishing deals are full-publishing, co-publishing, and administration deals, each with its nuances.
Works for Hire:
While resembling the act of selling a song, work-for-hire involves creating a tailored track for specific purposes. The songwriter is paid a one-time fee, relinquishing rights and ownership of the song to the commissioning entity.
Pitch Your Song:
With your demo ready and PRO registration complete, it's time to present your song. Key figures in the music business who might express interest in your track include recording artists, music publishers, and licensing agencies.
Recording Artists:
Collaborating with both signed and independent musicians is common. However, reaching out to established artists may require a publishing deal. Working with emerging or indie artists can be more accessible and creatively liberating.
Music Publishers:
Publishers seek gifted songwriters, but unsolicited submissions are often disregarded. Networking, building relationships, and showcasing a portfolio or track record are crucial to capturing a publisher's interest.
Licensing Agencies, Music Libraries, Sync Agents, and Music Supervisors:
If aiming for a licensing agreement, target these entities. Sync licensing necessitates permission from all right owners, emphasizing the need for control over both songwriting and sound recording copyrights.
In conclusion, the journey to showcase your songwriting prowess to the world is a fulfilling yet intricate process. Patience is paramount, and building a robust track record is crucial for those aspiring to become professional songwriters.
