Muziekrechten
What is the difference between sync rights and master rights?
Short answer
Sync rights cover the composition, master rights cover the recording. To use an existing song in a commercial, you need two licenses.
Sync rights cover the composition: the melody and lyrics, managed by the publisher. Master rights cover the recording: that one version you know, usually owned by the record label. To use an existing song in a commercial, you therefore need two licenses from two parties. If you choose a new recording or music from TRX Music, it becomes simpler. Read What music is truly worth.