How to Get Your Music Featured in Commercials

Getting your music placed in commercials can be a game-changer for your career, providing exposure, financial rewards, and credibility. Sync licensing—the process of licensing music for use in media such as commercials, TV shows, and films—is an essential avenue for artists looking to expand their reach and monetize their work. Below, we explore key steps to increase your chances of landing a sync placement in commercials.

1. Understand the Power of Sync Licensing

Sync licensing involves granting permission for your music to be used in visual media in exchange for a licensing fee and backend royalties. When your track is featured in a commercial, it not only earns you revenue but also reaches a vast audience, often leading to increased streams, downloads, and recognition.

For more insights on sync licensing, check out our dedicated blog section.

2. Create Sync-Friendly Music

Not all songs work well for commercials. Brands look for tracks that complement their message and evoke emotions that resonate with their target audience. Here are some characteristics of sync-friendly music:

• Clear and relatable lyrics (or instrumental versions)

• Strong, memorable hooks

• High production quality

• Emotionally compelling soundscapes

3. Build a Solid Catalog and Metadata

Organizing your music properly makes it easier for music supervisors to find and license your songs. Ensure your tracks are labeled with essential metadata, including:

• Song title

• Artist name

• Contact information

• Mood and genre

• Instrumental versions availability

4. Work with Sync Agencies and Music Libraries

Sync agencies and music libraries act as intermediaries between artists and brands, making it easier for your music to be discovered. Some well-known sync agencies specialize in placing music in commercials, films, and TV shows. Research and submit your work to libraries that align with your sound. Signing with a good publisher can also help increase your chances of having your music used for sync licenses. If your publisher has relationships with supervisors, agencies, and brands, they may be able to help pitch your music. My publishing administration company Elizabeth Music Group provides our signed musicians with an exclusive discord community that includes a dedicated sync section that houses sync briefs and opportunities. New ones are added on a very frequent basis and our roster of signed musicians are free to submit to whichever opportunities they would like. At Elizabeth Music Group, we believe in a creative-first approach and part of that means allowing our creatives the freedom to choose which briefs interest them and which they would like to submit for.

5. Network with Music Supervisors

Music supervisors are responsible for selecting songs for commercials. Connecting with them through industry events, social media, or music conferences can help you get your music in front of the right people.

Pro Tip: Prioritize building genuine relationships instead of looking for instant help getting your music heard. Music supervisors receive a lot of unsolicited songs daily so it’s worth it to let relationships develop naturally over time.

6. Pitch Your Music Effectively

When reaching out to brands, agencies, or music supervisors, keep your pitch professional and concise:

• Include a short introduction about yourself and your music

• Attach a streaming link (never large files)

• Provide instrumental versions if available

• Mention past placements or notable achievements

Pro Tip: If your music is accepted - be easy to work with. Part of my success as a sync composer has been that I’ve remained easy to work with after my sync placements. Supervisors and agencies remember that you were easy to work with and may do repeat business with you because of how easy it is to work with you.

• However being easy to work with does NOT mean that you have to get taken advantage on your sync deals. You should consider having a lawyer or your publishing company represent you to review your agreements and make sure you are getting fair terms.

7. Stay Updated on Industry Trends

The advertising industry is always evolving, and keeping up with trends in commercial music can give you an edge. Pay attention to the types of songs being used in recent commercials and adapt your strategy accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Getting your music featured in commercials takes persistence, strategy, and networking. By creating sync-friendly tracks, organizing your catalog, and actively pitching your music, you increase your chances of landing lucrative placements.

For more tips and industry insights, explore our Sync Licensing Blog on Elizabeth Music Group’s website.