Finding a reputable and successful music publisher is a key step for music producers looking to maximize their earning potential. Whether you’re creating production music, instrumentals, or full-length tracks, getting your music into the right hands can lead to increased exposure and, more importantly, steady revenue. Music publishing offers producers the opportunity to earn from synchronization placements (sync licensing), mechanical royalties, and performance royalties. However, to succeed in this field, you need to connect with the right music publishers who can promote and place your work effectively.
In this article, we’ll explore proven tips and techniques for finding successful music publishers, giving you the best chance to create new revenue streams and build a lasting career in music production.
1. Understand the Role of a Music Publisher
Before diving into how to find a music publisher, it’s important to understand their role in your career. Music publishers manage the rights to your musical compositions and help you monetize them by placing them in films, TV shows, commercials, video games, and other media. They also handle licensing, royalty collection, and promotion of your music.
Producers who work with music publishers often benefit from:
- Sync Placements: Publishers help get your music placed in visual media like commercials, films, and TV shows.
- Royalty Collection: They ensure you collect both mechanical and performance royalties from your music being used commercially.
- Promotion: A good music publisher actively seeks opportunities to promote and place your music in the industry.
2. Research Music Publishers Thoroughly
Not all music publishers are created equal. Some focus on specific genres or markets, while others specialize in sync placements or production music libraries. To find the right publisher, start by doing in-depth research.
Music Library Report
One valuable resource for music producers is Music Library Report. This platform provides user-submitted reviews of various music libraries and publishers, allowing you to see which companies have good reputations for paying royalties, offering placements, and providing fair deals. By reading the reviews on this site, you can filter out unreliable publishers and focus on those with a track record of success.
How to Use Music Library Report:
- Search for publishers that specialize in your genre or niche.
- Read reviews to learn about payment schedules, contract fairness, and sync placement success rates.
- Identify publishers with consistent positive feedback and avoid those with repeated complaints.
Pond5 and Other Libraries
Platforms like Pond5 also serve as a marketplace where producers can submit music for licensing. Pond5 allows you to sell royalty-free music and earn money every time your track is used in a commercial, video game, or film.
Advantages of Pond5:
- Flexibility: You can upload a wide range of music, from short jingles to full-length tracks, and choose your own pricing.
- Control: Unlike traditional publishers, platforms like Pond5 give you control over your rights and royalties, allowing you to earn money while retaining ownership of your work.
Additionally, explore other production music libraries such as AudioJungle or Songtradr. These libraries often cater to filmmakers, content creators, and ad agencies looking for high-quality, ready-to-license music.
3. Attend Music Industry Conferences and Events
Another effective way to find music publishers is to attend music industry conferences and events. These gatherings often include panels, workshops, and networking sessions where you can meet music publishers, sync agents, and music supervisors in person. Some of the top events to consider include:
- ASCAP Expo
- Sync Summit
- NAMM Show
- MUSEXPO
These conferences provide opportunities to:
- Pitch your music directly to publishers.
- Learn about current trends in music licensing and sync placements.
- Make personal connections with decision-makers in the industry.
4. Use Online Tools to Discover Publishers
There are several online tools and platforms designed to help you discover and connect with music publishers. These platforms can streamline the process of finding publishers who specialize in your type of music and offer fair deals.
Songtrust
Songtrust is a global music publishing platform that helps independent producers manage their royalties and publishing rights. It’s a great tool for managing your own catalog while getting exposure to publishers and platforms that can place your music in media.
Key Features:
- Global Royalty Collection: Songtrust ensures that you collect royalties from multiple sources, including digital streams, radio play, and public performances.
- Sync Licensing Opportunities: Songtrust works with sync agents who help place your music in visual media.
5. Pitch Your Music Directly
Once you've researched and identified potential music publishers, the next step is to pitch your music. Whether you're submitting to a traditional publisher or a music library, make sure your pitch is professional and includes:
- A concise biography: Briefly explain who you are, your genre, and any notable achievements (e.g., previous placements, streaming numbers).
- High-quality demos: Include polished, professional-quality demos of your music. Avoid sending unfinished or poorly mixed tracks.
- Contact information: Ensure that your email, phone number, and website are easy to find.
Most publishers prefer you submit via their online submission forms or emails. Always follow the submission guidelines on their websites to increase the chances of your music being heard.
6. Network with Other Producers and Artists
Your peers are often one of the best resources for finding reliable publishers. Other producers and artists can give you recommendations based on their own experiences. Join music production groups on social media, attend local meetups, or engage in forums like Gearslutz or Reddit’s r/WeAreTheMusicMakers to exchange tips on finding successful publishers.
Networking with other creatives can lead to opportunities you might not have found on your own, such as referral programs or invitations to exclusive music libraries.
7. Stay Persistent and Follow Up
Finally, persistence is key when it comes to securing a music publishing deal. Many producers submit music once and then forget to follow up. Music publishers, sync agents, and libraries receive thousands of submissions, so it’s important to remain proactive. After submitting your music, follow up politely to check on the status and express your continued interest.
Conclusion: Open New Revenue Streams with Music Publishing
Finding the right music publisher can unlock new revenue streams for your career as a music producer. By using platforms like Music Library Report, Pond5, and other music libraries, you can submit your music to trusted publishers. Attending industry events, leveraging online tools like Songtrust, and networking with other professionals will increase your chances of landing successful publishing deals.
Persistence and professionalism will help you stand out, turning your production music, instrumentals, and full-length tracks into reliable income sources.