Wednesday, October 15, 2008
That Syncing Feeling - Big Sound 08
Music Synchronisation Panel: That Syncing Feeling - conference notes:
• Brandon Fuller from A&R Worldwide stressed that artists must have their stem tracks readily available before looking for synch deals.
• Instrumental tracks? It was said that it can be handy to have just instrumental versions available of your songs - for where the music is right but the lyrics aren’t for the particular placement. However Ward Hake from 20th Century Fox said he wouldn’t use unsigned bands’ instrumentals, but that advertisers sometimes would.
• Note that 20th Century Fox uses more indie music and are currently sourcing in Australia.
• Another hot tip for artists was to make sure that one person in the band, or management, has the decision-making power for synch placements, as if you get the call for one you don’t have time to chase each rights holder for permission. Also make sure your individual band agreements etc are in place so that you definitely have the rights to begin with. And don’t even come to the synch table per se if your song has a sampled track in it – the risk for the other party just isn’t worth it.
• Synch filters are a key, as are music placement companies and individual consultants.
• Also a new way forward is for managers with publishing knowledge to act as a label for a number of artists’ songs and have the right to make deals on the artists’ behalf.
• Artists should also note it is possible to do short term synch management deals (an admin deal) while you’re an independent, that can be dissolved down the track should you sign to a label etc.
• Do your homework to find out what new placement opportunities might be coming up – look in trade titles/websites such as Variety and Hollywood Reporter.
• Create a database of music supervisors. Get on their databases.
• Note that for films most music is added in late production and post production, so if you’re too early in the process no-one will be listening.
• Look to short films and docos for good opportunities for indie artists.
• For TV shows, the executive producers are powerful decision makers regarding music.
• Note turnaround times – Ward said that animated shows like the Simpsons take a year to produce while scripted shows have 8 day turnaround times.
• SoundSauce – has a myspace
• Can be helpful to find music placement companies that specialise in your particular type of music eg. Mr Bongo for latin music.
• Note Fox Sports/Sports networks use a lot of indie music but it pays very little.
by Katherine Beard - Bandtag Marketing Manager
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