Sync Licensing Case Study: Tay Keith x McDonald's
Tay Keith, a prominent hip-hop producer known for hits with Drake, Beyoncé, and Travis Scott, made headlines when his music was featured in a partnership with McDonald’s. This partnership demonstrates how hip-hop producers can leverage their craft for major sync deals.
Why McDonald's Chose Tay Keith:
Cultural Relevance: Tay Keith’s sound resonates with younger demographics, aligning with McDonald's effort to stay culturally relevant.
Memorable Beatwork: His signature high-energy beats created an instant connection with the audience.
Impact of the Sync Deal:
Increased visibility for Tay Keith beyond the music industry.
Opened doors for other producers in hip-hop to explore similar opportunities.
Enhanced McDonald’s brand appeal through association with a high-profile producer.
How Hip-Hop Producers Can Succeed in Sync Licensing
1. Understand the Industry
Learn the basics of sync licensing, including how rights are managed, who music supervisors are, and how royalties work. Key steps include:
Registering your tracks with a Performing Rights Organization (PRO) like ASCAP, BMI, or PRS.
Ensuring you have clean splits for co-productions.
Partnering with a sync agent or licensing company for exposure.
2. Focus on Versatility
Hip-hop producers can benefit from showcasing a range of styles to meet the diverse needs of media projects. Consider creating:
Instrumental Versions: These are often preferred for background use in media.
Loopable Sections: Make it easy for editors to adapt your music to different scene lengths.
Genre-Blending Tracks: Hip-hop fused with cinematic or electronic elements can appeal to broader audiences.
3. Create Custom Compositions
Producers who can create music for sync briefs often have an advantage. Custom tracks allow brands and filmmakers to get exactly what they need.
Use sample-free beats for a clean licensing process.
Offer variations of your work, like remixes or stripped-down versions.
4. Highlight Your Track’s Sync Potential
When pitching your music, emphasize its relevance for specific media. For example:
“This track works well for high-energy sports ads.”
“The beat drop is perfect for action scenes in movies.”
Challenges Hip-Hop Producers Might Face
Clearing Samples:
If your track includes samples, ensure they’re cleared. Unlicensed samples can disqualify your music from sync opportunities.Overcrowded Market:
With many producers vying for sync deals, standing out requires consistent quality and targeted pitching.Understanding Legalities:
Sync licensing involves legal complexities, so work with professionals to avoid pitfalls.
The Benefits of Sync Licensing for Hip-Hop Producers
Diversified Income: Sync placements provide upfront fees, royalties, and performance income.
Global Exposure: A sync deal, like Tay Keith’s partnership with McDonald’s, can introduce your music to millions worldwide.
Creative Growth: Tailoring music for visual media can expand your skill set and inspire new creative directions.
Final Thoughts
The sync licensing world is ripe with opportunities for hip-hop producers. By mastering the art of creating versatile, culturally relevant, and legally clear tracks, producers can tap into a lucrative revenue stream and amplify their influence beyond traditional music platforms.
Take a page from Tay Keith’s playbook: embrace adaptability, prioritize professionalism, and understand the unique demands of sync projects. With dedication and strategy, sync licensing can be your gateway to broader success.
