An Introduction To Music Licensing

My name is Aaron Davison. I have been working in the music licensing business for close to seven years as a songwriter, licensing my music for use in television through a music publisher.

Music licensing is a great avenue for musicians to make more money with their music. If you´re not familiar with the concept of music licensing, the next time you´re watching television or watching a movie pay close attention to the music you hear in the background. Every single piece of music you hear was licensed from someone. Much of the music that is used, especially in television, comes from independent songwriters.

When you license your music for use in television you get paid twice. You first receive what is called a licensing fee for the rights to use your music and you also receive what´s called a performnce royalty when your music airs on television. The more your music is used the more you get paid.

Performance royalties can add up fast. Just to give you an idea, the first song I licensed was to a daytime drama. They used less than a minute of one of my songs and I received a total of $1,200.00. My publisher that helped me place the song received the same amount as well. Music licensing is potentially very lucrative.

Want to learn more about licensing your music for use in TV and Films? Be sure to check out my free newsletter by visiting How To License Your Music.com