If you're an artist, songwriter, or music producer looking for new income streams, you've probably come across the term sync licensing. But what is sync licensing, and how does it work in today’s music industry?

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know — from definitions to how to get your music placed in film, TV, ads, games, and more.

What Is Sync Licensing?

Sync licensing (short for synchronization licensing) is the process of granting permission to use a piece of music in combination with visual media. This includes anything from:

• Films and TV shows
• Commercials and branded content
• Video games and mobile apps
• YouTube videos, TikToks, and livestreams
• Corporate videos and documentaries

In simple terms: it’s when your music is “synced” to a visual story — and you get paid for it.

Why Is Sync Licensing So Valuable?

In 2025, sync licensing is one of the most powerful — and underused — revenue streams for independent artists.

Here’s why:

• You get paid upfront (sync fee) and collect backend royalties
• Sync placements can catapult a song to virality
• Brands, TV shows, and streaming platforms are always looking for fresh, affordable music

Just one sync placement can lead to:

• Exposure to millions of viewers
• Shazam and streaming spikes
• Long-term publishing income

💡 Fun fact: The hit song “Running Up That Hill” by Kate Bush re-entered the charts 37 years later — because of a sync placement in Stranger Things.

How Does Sync Licensing Work?

To license a song for sync, two key rights must be cleared:

1. Master Rights – the actual sound recording
2. Publishing Rights – the composition (melody + lyrics)

If you're a DIY artist who writes, records, and owns 100% of your music, you're in a great position — you control both sides.

When someone wants to use your song (e.g. a Netflix producer or ad agency), they pay a sync fee to both the master and publishing rights holders.

Who Uses Sync Licensing?

Sync licensing is used by:

• TV and film producers: They need music for background scenes, intros, montages, emotional moments, etc.
• Advertising agencies: Brands want tracks that match their vibe, product, or campaign message.
• Game developers: From menu music to boss battles, game soundtracks matter.
• Content creators: YouTubers and TikTokers often license music for premium content.
• Streaming platforms: Think Netflix, HBO, Disney+, and even Amazon product videos.

How Do I Get My Music Licensed?

If you’re wondering not just what is sync licensing, but how can I get in on it, here are five ways to start:

1. Join a Sync Licensing Platform

There are many sync agencies and platforms connecting artists with music supervisors, such as:

• Collabhouse Music Library – great for emerging artists and creators
• Musicbed
• Artlist
• Songtradr
• Audio Network

These platforms let you upload tracks, tag them by mood and genre, and get discovered by industry pros looking for music.

🎯 Pro Tip: On Collabhouse, you can manage your rights, showcase your sync-ready catalog, and even connect directly with brands and creators.

2. Work with a Music Publisher

Some publishers specialize in sync placements and will pitch your music to TV, film, and ad contacts. In return, they usually take a percentage of the sync fee and publishing royalties.

3. Submit to Music Libraries

Production libraries have pre-cleared music ready to be licensed at scale. If your music is versatile and instrumental-friendly, this route can generate long-term passive income.

4. Pitch Directly to Music Supervisors

Build relationships with music supervisors in film, TV, or advertising. Send short, curated playlists of your best syncable songs with clear metadata and rights info.

5. Create Sync-Friendly Tracks

Make music with sync in mind. Think about:

• Emotionally clear lyrics
• Universal themes
• Strong instrumental versions
• Clean intros and builds
• No uncleared samples!

How Much Money Can You Make From Sync Licensing?

The payout depends on the placement type, your rights ownership, and your leverage.

Here’s a general idea:

Placement TypeTypical Sync Fee (USD)TV Background Use$500 – $5,000Indie Film$1,000 – $10,000Commercial (National)$10,000 – $100,000+YouTube/Online Ad$250 – $2,500Game Soundtrack$500 – $10,000

Remember: you may also earn performance royalties every time the project airs, streams, or plays — especially on TV and film.

Final Thoughts: What Is Sync Licensing and Why Should You Care?

Sync licensing is more than just a buzzword — it’s a serious opportunity for independent artists to turn their catalog into income. In a time when streaming pays fractions of a cent per play, one sync deal could be worth more than 100,000 Spotify streams.

By understanding what sync licensing is, and taking active steps to make your music sync-ready, you open doors to the worlds of film, TV, advertising, gaming, and beyond.

Platforms like Collabhouse make this even easier by connecting artists with real opportunities, allowing you to showcase your music, control your rights, and tap into the creative economy.

‍

FAQ: What Is Sync Licensing?

Q: Do I need a label to get sync placements?
A: No. Independent artists get placed all the time — especially if they own both master and publishing rights.

Q: Can instrumental tracks be licensed for sync?
A: Absolutely. Many placements prefer instrumentals to avoid clashing with voiceovers or dialogue.

Q: How do I know if my music is syncable?
A: If your track has clean production, universal themes, and strong emotional impact, it’s sync-friendly. Having stems, clean versions, and instrumentals also helps.

‍