Writing songs that work well and resonate with TV and film scenes, requires a deep understanding of storytelling, emotion, and universality. Crafting lyrics with universal themes—love, loss, hope, struggle—can make your music more appealing for licensing. These themes often align with the narratives of TV shows and films, creating a seamless blend between the audio and visual elements.

Why Universal Themes Matter
Universal themes are those that are broadly relatable and evoke shared human experiences. By writing lyrics that touch on these themes, your music can find a place in a much wider array of scenes and genres than if your music contains more obscure lyrics and subject matter.

TV shows and films often deal with fundamental human experiences, and music that echoes these experiences can amplify the emotional impact of a scene. This really shouldn't be much of a stretch as a songwriter or composer, because chances are, you're already writing songs with universal themes.  After all, universal themes, are universal!

Tips for Writing Lyrics for TV and Film
Focus on the emotional core of your song. Whether it’s love, heartache, triumph, or despair, ensure your lyrics convey deep emotions. Write about experiences that are universally understood and avoid overly specific details that may limit the song’s applicability.

Think about how your song could fit into different narrative contexts. Lyrics that tell a story or evoke a particular mood can be particularly powerful. The dynamics of your song—its crescendos, breakdowns, and overall structure—should complement the visual storytelling. This can make your song a perfect fit for key moments in a scene.

Another thing to keep in mind when writing music for films, in particular, is that less is often more.  This was a point that Supervisor Susan Jacobs brought up in our recent podcast we did together.  Susan said that when writing music for films, make sure there is still room for the dialog to be heard over the song.  Susan said that often times more stripped-down versions of songs, even demos in some cases, work better for films.

If you missed my recent podcast with Susan, you can check that out here:
https://open.spotify.com/episode/0BZb4FyZeISu6eB6nccGfq?si=b8c61b29bf134588

With these principles in mind, let’s explore ten songs that have been licensed, analyzing why they work so well in their respective scenes, how the lyrics relate to what’s happening, and offering key takeaways for musicians looking to get their music licensed. 

​Note: Due to copyright restrictions, I wasn't able to post clips of the scenes and songs I'm referencing, so you'll have to do some research on your own, if you want to reference the scenes I analyze, to see why they work so will with their respective songs.  But they should be pretty easy to find on Netflix, Amazon and so on.

"Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey - "The Sopranos" Finale
In the final scene of "The Sopranos," Tony Soprano sits in a diner with his family. The tension builds as he waits for his daughter to arrive, with various patrons creating a sense of unease. The scene ends abruptly, leaving viewers with a lingering sense of suspense. "Don't Stop Believin'" serves as the perfect backdrop for this iconic scene.

The song’s hopeful lyrics and anthemic melody contrast with the tension in the scene, creating a powerful juxtaposition. The line "Don't stop believin', hold on to that feeling" underscores the uncertainty and tension, suggesting a glimmer of hope amidst the ambiguity. This contrast can be a powerful tool, familiar songs can evoke strong emotions, and deep emotional resonance can add layers to the narrative.

"Mad World" by Gary Jules - In "Donnie Darko"
"Mad World" plays during a montage at the end of the film, capturing the somber and reflective tone of the movie’s conclusion. "Mad World" perfectly complements the film’s melancholic and introspective themes. The haunting piano arrangement and subdued vocals mirror the character’s inner turmoil and the film’s overall mood.

The lyrics, "I find it kind of funny, I find it kind of sad, the dreams in which I'm dying are the best I've ever had," reflect Donnie’s complex emotional state and the film's existential themes. Matching the mood and relevance of the lyrics can deepen the connection, while simplicity in arrangement can be more effective than complexity.

"Bohemian Rhapsody" by Queen - "Wayne’s World"
​In "Wayne’s World," the characters perform an impromptu headbanging session to "Bohemian Rhapsody" while driving in their car. "Bohemian Rhapsody" brings a sense of fun and spontaneity to the scene, perfectly capturing the characters’ carefree and quirky personalities. The song’s dynamic structure also adds an element of unpredictability.

The lyrics, with their dramatic shifts and storytelling, complement the humorous and over-the-top nature of the characters’ antics. Songs that align with character personalities, inject fun, and have cultural significance can create iconic moments.

"Unchained Melody" by The Righteous Brothers -"Ghost"
In "Ghost," "Unchained Melody" plays during the famous pottery scene, where the characters share an intimate and tender moment. "Unchained Melody" enhances the romantic and timeless feel of the scene. The song’s emotional depth and soulful delivery resonate with the characters’ deep connection and love.

​The lyrics, "Oh, my love, my darling, I've hungered for your touch," emphasize the longing and profound bond between the characters, heightening the scene's emotional impact. Romantic themes, timeless appeal, and soulful delivery can significantly enhance intimate scenes.

"Lose Yourself" by Eminem - "8 Mile"
In "8 Mile," Eminem’s "Lose Yourself" plays during pivotal moments, including the final rap battle, highlighting the protagonist’s determination and struggle. "Lose Yourself" captures the essence of the film’s themes of perseverance and overcoming obstacles. The song’s intensity and motivational lyrics align perfectly with the character’s journey.

​The lyrics, "You better lose yourself in the music, the moment, you own it, you better never let it go," reflect the protagonist’s mindset and the high stakes of the scene. Motivational power, intensity, and personal connection can drive narratives forward.


"Home" by Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros - "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty"
In "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty," "Home" by Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros plays during a montage of Walter’s travels. The song’s uplifting and whimsical nature perfectly captures the spirit of adventure and self-discovery that defines the film. The folk-pop sound and heartfelt lyrics resonate with the character’s journey, making it an ideal choice.

The lyrics, "Home, let me come home, home is wherever I'm with you," reflect Walter's inner journey of finding where he truly belongs. Uplifting themes, resonance with the character’s journey, and heartfelt lyrics can enhance the spirit of adventure.

"Holocene" by Bon Iver - "The Place Beyond the Pines"
"Holocene" by Bon Iver features in "The Place Beyond the Pines," providing a hauntingly beautiful backdrop for a reflective and poignant scene. The ethereal and introspective qualities of the song enhance the emotional depth of the moment, aligning perfectly with the film’s contemplative tone.

​The lyrics, "And at once I knew I was not magnificent," reflect the character's realization of their own vulnerability and insignificance, deepening the scene's impact. Ethereal qualities, emotional depth, and alignment with the film’s tone can create powerful scenes.

"The Funeral" by Band of Horses - "127 Hours"
In "127 Hours," "The Funeral" by Band of Horses underscores a pivotal moment of introspection and realization for the protagonist. The song’s melancholic yet powerful atmosphere complements the intense emotions of the scene, highlighting the character’s struggle and determination.

The lyrics, "At every occasion, I'll be ready for the funeral," mirror the protagonist's confrontation with mortality and the dire situation he faces. Melancholic atmospheres, complementing intense emotions, and highlighting struggle and determination can enhance pivotal moments.

"First Day of My Life" by Bright Eyes - "Stuck in Love"
In "Stuck in Love," "First Day of My Life" by Bright Eyes plays during a tender and heartfelt moment between characters. The song’s intimate and sincere lyrics, coupled with its simple acoustic arrangement, perfectly capture the vulnerability and warmth of the scene.

The lyrics, "This is the first day of my life, I'm glad I didn't die before I met you," underscore the characters' newfound love and connection, enhancing the emotional resonance. Intimate lyrics, simple arrangements, and capturing vulnerability and warmth can significantly enhance romantic scenes.

"To Build a Home" by The Cinematic Orchestra - "This Is Us"
In the TV series "This Is Us," "To Build a Home" by The Cinematic Orchestra plays during a poignant and emotionally charged scene. The song’s orchestral arrangement and soulful vocals amplify the scene’s emotional weight, creating a powerful and lasting impact.

The lyrics, "And I built a home for you, for me," reflect the themes of family, love, and the passage of time, adding depth to the narrative. Orchestral arrangements, soulful vocals, and amplifying emotional weight can create impactful and memorable scenes.

Summing Up
The right song can transform a scene, adding depth, emotion, and memorability. By understanding why certain songs work so well in their licensed contexts, musicians can craft music that stands out and resonates with both audiences and industry professionals. Whether through contrast, mood matching, character alignment, or motivational power, there are many ways to create music that enhances visual narratives and increases the chances of successful licensing.

For more insights and tips on music licensing, subscribe to our newsletter and stay tuned for our upcoming courses and resources.

Have you ever felt like you’re not getting your fair share from your music? Or maybe you’ve been frustrated with the lack of control you have over your own creations. If these thoughts have crossed your mind, it might be time to consider starting your own music publishing company. 


Here’s why taking this step could be a game-changer for your music career:

Complete Control Over Your Music
One of the biggest advantages of starting your own music publishing company is the complete control it gives you over your music. When you own your publishing company, you make all the decisions about how your music is used, where it’s placed, and how it’s marketed. No more waiting for someone else to decide if your song fits a particular project – you get to be the boss of your music.

For example, remember when Prince famously changed his name to an unpronounceable symbol to take back control of his music? While you might not need to go to such extremes, owning your publishing rights gives you complete control of your music and how it’s used, something many musicians have historically fought for.

Maximizing Earnings
Money isn’t everything, but let’s be honest – it’s pretty important. By owning your music publishing company, you can maximize your earnings. Instead of sharing your royalties with a publisher, you keep a larger slice of the pie. Plus, you have the flexibility to negotiate better deals and explore multiple revenue streams.

Think about it this way – every time your song is played on the radio, streamed online, or used in a commercial, royalties are generated. If you’re the publisher, a significant portion of those royalties goes directly into your pocket.

Flexibility and Freedom
With your own publishing company, you have the flexibility to make decisions that align with your vision and goals. Want to experiment with a new genre? Go for it. Interested in licensing your music for indie films? You can do that too. The freedom to pursue opportunities that excite you without waiting for approval from others is incredibly empowering.

Traditional publishing deals often come with strings attached – you might be locked into a certain style or have limited say in how your music is used. With your own company, you’re free to chart your own course.

Building Your Brand
In today’s music industry, personal branding is crucial. Your brand is more than just your music – it’s your image, your story, and how you connect with your audience. Owning your publishing company allows you to build and control your brand more effectively. You can create a cohesive strategy that reflects who you are as an artist.

For example, look at artists like Taylor Swift and Chance the Rapper, who have built strong personal brands by maintaining control over their music and how it’s presented. Your publishing company can be a key part of your brand’s identity and will allow you to retain complete control over how your music is used.

Long-term Career Growth
Starting your own music publishing company isn’t just about immediate gains – it’s about setting yourself up for long-term success. As your catalog grows, so do your opportunities. You can build a valuable asset that generates income for years to come, and even expand into other areas of the industry.

Think of your publishing company as a foundation for future growth. You might start with a few songs, but over time, you can sign other artists, collaborate on new projects, and explore new markets. The possibilities are endless.

Conclusion
So, what’s stopping you? Starting your own music publishing company might seem daunting, but with the right knowledge and tools, it’s absolutely achievable. If you’re ready to take control of your music career, maximize your earnings, and build a lasting legacy, now is the time to make your move.

To help you get started, I’ve created a comprehensive course called "The Complete Musician’s Guide To Music Publishing", that will be released on Monday, July 22.

This hour-long video course covers everything you need to know, from the basics of music publishing to the intricacies of licensing and royalties. You’ll get insider tips, practical advice, and all the support you need to succeed.

Interested? Pre-order the course between now and Sunday, and save 50% off the full price and get our “Music Licensing Contract Bundle" ($97.00 value) as a free bonus.

Learn more here:
https://www.htlympremium.com/publishing_course.html

Music supervisors are responsible for selecting and licensing music for various media projects, including TV shows, films, commercials, and video games. Their job involves finding songs that fit the project's mood, theme, and budget constraints. By understanding their role and their needs, you can better tailor your pitch to meet their specific needs and preferences.

Research and Target the Right Supervisors
Before you start pitching, it’s crucial to research music supervisors and identify those who work on projects that align with your music style. This targeted approach ensures that you are reaching out to individuals who are more likely to appreciate and use your music.

Here are some detailed steps and tips to help you effectively research and target the right music supervisors:

Identify Your Music Style and Genre
First, have a clear understanding of your own music style and genre. Create a list of keywords that describe your music, such as “indie rock,” “electronic,” “acoustic folk,” etc. This will help you narrow down the types of projects and supervisors who might be interested in your music.

Use IMDb to Find Relevant Projects
IMDb (Internet Movie Database) is an invaluable resource for identifying music supervisors. Start by searching for films, TV shows, and other media projects that feature music similar to yours.

Look at the credits for these projects to find the names of the music supervisors involved. IMDb Pro offers even more detailed information, including contact details and project history, which can be extremely useful for your research.

Leverage LinkedIn for Professional Networking
LinkedIn is another powerful tool for connecting with industry professionals, including music supervisors. Use LinkedIn’s search functionality to find music supervisors by name or by the projects they’ve worked on.

Follow their profiles to stay updated on their latest projects and industry activities. You can also join groups and forums related to music supervision to gain insights and network with other professionals.

Connect with me on Linkedin here.

Explore Professional Organizations
Professional organizations like the Guild of Music Supervisors provide a wealth of information and networking opportunities. The Guild’s website often lists members and their contact information, along with news and events related to music supervision. Attending conferences, webinars, and networking events organized by these groups can help you meet and connect with music supervisors in person.

Use Music Licensing Platforms and Databases
Platforms like Music Gateway, TAXI, and Songtradr provide databases of music supervisors and other industry professionals. These platforms often offer submission services where you can pitch your music directly through their system. Additionally, they provide valuable information about industry trends and supervisor preferences.

Another valuable resource is my website, How To License Your Music Premium, where you can find a wealth of information, courses, and tools specifically designed to help musicians succeed in the world of music licensing.

Create a Targeted List
After gathering all this information, create a targeted list of music supervisors who are most likely to be interested in your music. Include their names, contact information, the types of projects they work on, and any specific notes about their preferences. This list will be your go-to resource when you start pitching your music.

Personalize Your Outreach
When reaching out to music supervisors, personalize each message based on your research. Mention specific projects they have worked on that you admire and explain why you think your music would be a good fit for their future projects. Personalizing your outreach shows that you have done your homework and increases the chances of your pitch being well-received.

Stay Organized and Track Your Efforts
Keep track of your interactions with music supervisors in a spreadsheet or CRM tool. Note down when you contacted them, any responses you received, and follow-up actions. Staying organized helps you manage your pitching efforts efficiently and ensures that no opportunities slip through the cracks.

A great resource to help with this is The Ultimate Music Licensing Starter Pack available on my website. This starter pack includes a submission tracking spreadsheet designed to help you keep detailed records of your pitches and follow-ups. You can find more information about the starter pack and access it here.

By investing time in thorough research and targeting the right music supervisors, you increase your chances of getting your music heard and licensed. This targeted approach not only makes your pitches more effective but also builds a professional reputation that can lead to more opportunities in the future.

Prepare Your Music
Your music should be of the highest quality, professionally mixed and mastered. Additionally, it’s important to have instrumental versions of your tracks available, as well as any necessary metadata. This metadata should include lyrics, credits, and your contact information. Music supervisors need to have all the details at their fingertips to make licensing decisions quickly and efficiently.

Create a Professional Pitch
When creating your pitch, aim for a concise, professional, and personalized approach. Start with a brief introduction about yourself and your music.

Explain why your music is a good fit for the supervisor’s projects, and provide streaming links to your tracks. Avoid attaching large files to emails, as this can be cumbersome for recipients. Instead, use platforms like SoundCloud, YouTube, or a dedicated website to share your music.

Follow Up and Build Relationships
After sending your pitch, it’s important to follow up if you haven’t received a response within a couple of weeks. A polite follow-up email can remind the supervisor of your submission without being intrusive. Building relationships with music supervisors is also key. Engage with them on social media, attend industry events, and show genuine interest in their work. Over time, this can lead to more opportunities and collaborations.
​
Resources for Pitching Your Music
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• Guild of Music Supervisors: Guild of Music Supervisors
  
  
• IMDb Pro: IMDb Pro
  
  
• LinkedIn: LinkedIn
  
  
• Sonicbids: Sonicbids
  
  
• 2024 Sync Licensing Directory: 2024 Sync Licensing Directory

For more in-depth information on how to contact music supervisors, get The 2024 Sync Licensing Directory, which has an entire section devoted specifically to music supervisor contact information.

Get the directory here.

​By following these steps and leveraging these resources, you can increase your chances of successfully pitching your music to music supervisors and securing more placements.

Good luck!

Aaron Davison
HTLYM Premium
The Sync Lab (Coming soon!)