What Is a Non-Exclusive Sync Deal and Is It Worth It?

What a Non-Exclusive Deal Means

You give a sync agent or music library the non-exclusive right to:

• Pitch your music to TV/film/ad opportunities
• License your music to clients
• Collect sync fees and/or royalties on your behalf

 You can also pitch the same song elsewhere
 They don’t control or own your music

 Pros & Cons of Non-Exclusive Sync Deals

Pros	Cons
You retain all rights	Fees are usually lower than exclusive deals
Submit to multiple libraries	Risk of double pitching (same song offered by two libraries to same project)
No long-term commitment	Less promotion or support compared to exclusives
Great for catalog building	You must manage your metadata and versions carefully

 How You Get Paid

• Sync fee split between you and the library (typical split: 50/50)
• Performance royalties go to you through your PRO (ASCAP, BMI, etc.)
• You keep your publishing unless agreed otherwise

Always read the contract—some “non-exclusive” libraries try to claim publishing.

 What You Should Prepare

• High-quality WAV or MP3 files
• Instrumental versions
• Accurate metadata (title, genre, mood, ISRC, writer info)
• A tracking system for where each song is placed

 Pro Tips

• Use non-exclusive libraries to test demand and build a placement history
• Keep a spreadsheet or tool like DISCO or Songspace to track submissions
• Watch for contract clauses that say “non-exclusive” but give the company admin or publishing control
• Don’t submit the same track to two places pitching to the same client

Bottom Line:
Non-exclusive sync deals are perfect for independent songwriters looking to start making money from sync. They offer flexibility and exposure—but require you to stay organized and protect your rights.