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Yes, TV & film use a lot of extra tracks. Just a reality check here… This isn’t a pep talk like a lot of books, classes and videos out there.

There are millions of tracks available for clients to pick from and a thousand plus libraries. Many libraries have slowed their submissions down since the pandemic. Some have even stopped accepting new music altogether. Many music libraries charge very little or nothing at all for licensing (gratis terms). There are exceptions though for movies, major network and prime time shows. Relying on your PRO’s seems to be the primary means of getting paid for most TV placements. And unless it’s major networks and prime time, it doesn’t pay much. That said, there are still possibilities in the TV & film market. The pandemic hasn’t affected that market, except for theater releases and the library submission process.

I’ve seen new TV/film music businesses develop. Often, they pop-up on Facebook. One that’s been advertising regularly charge a one-time fee of $49 to the client for royalty-free music, with a perpetuity term limit (meaning forever). For the one-time charge of $49 they can use as many tracks as they want and as often as they want, royalty free. The composers that submit to these companies are depleting the value of music and cutting their own throats in the process.

The best course of actions for composers is to find your own niche. Hopefully one that stands out from other composers. You’ll be remembered for you distinctiveness, and possibly develop a personal relationship with music supervisors. Always use descriptive words in your titles. Your music will pop-up more often in the client’s searches. And sad to say “less is more” doesn’t apply here. The more tracks you have in the system, the better chance of being heard. Although they better be “broadcast quality” – whatever that means. I guess that means make your tracks sound as good (or better) to what you’re hearing on TV/ film.

Okay, a little pep talk… The TV & film music business is booming and filled with endless possibilities. Go get ‘em!