What Is a Sync License?

What Does “Sync” Mean?

“Synchronization” means pairing music with visual content. For example:

• A song playing in the background of a film scene
• A track used in a TV commercial
• A music bed under a YouTube vlog or game stream

 How Songwriters Make Money from Syncs

You (or your publisher) get paid a sync fee when your composition is licensed for use. This is a one-time upfront payment, and you may also earn performance royalties if the content is broadcast.

 Two Licenses Are Usually Needed

License Type	Who Gets Paid	Covers What
Sync License	Songwriter/Publisher	Use of the composition
Master License	Artist/Label	Use of the recording

If you own both (as an indie songwriter and artist), you can grant both rights and keep 100% of the fee.

 Typical Sync Fees

Type of Usage	Approximate Fee Range
Indie film or student project	$0 – $500
Network TV show	$1,000 – $10,000+
Major commercial (Nike, Apple)	$25,000 – $500,000+
YouTube content creator	$50 – $500

Fees vary based on usage length, platform, budget, and reach.

 How to Get Sync Placements

• Sign with a sync agent or music library
• Submit to music supervisors directly (if possible)
• Release music with metadata tags and instrumentals
• Use services like:
• Musicbed, Artlist, Songtradr, AudioSocket, Crucial Music

 Pro Tips

• Always retain your song rights unless the payout is significant.
• Be sync-friendly: write clear, universal lyrics and high-quality recordings.
• Register the song with your PRO—broadcast plays will earn performance royalties later.

Bottom Line:
A sync license is a powerful way for songwriters to earn upfront money and exposure by placing their songs in visual media. It’s one of the fastest-growing income streams in music.