Music Rights & Licensing

What are music rights?

Music rights determine who may use music, in what way and for what fee. Every existing song has two layers. The composition (melody and lyrics) is usually managed by a music publisher. The recording, the master, is usually owned by a record label. If you want to use music in a commercial or film, you need permission for both. TFA arranges this for you.

What is music clearance?

Music clearance is the entire process of securing music rights for a production. You find out who the rights holders are, request permission, negotiate the price and record everything in licenses. Only when everything is settled can the production be broadcast. Clearance takes time, so start early. TFA handles the complete clearance, as we did for Don't Be a Douchebag with three synced tracks. Read the Don't Be a Douchebag case.

What are synchronization rights?

Synchronization rights (sync rights) grant permission to pair a composition with moving images, such as a commercial, film, series or online video. You request them from the music publisher that manages the rights of the composer and lyricist. The price depends on how well known the song is, the medium, the term and the territory. Read our conversation with Aron van der Ploeg of Warner Chappell Music: Before the music starts.

What are master rights?

Master rights are the rights to a specific recording of a song, known as the master. They are usually held by the record label or by the artist. If you want to use the original recording, you need a master license in addition to the synchronization rights. If you have the song re-recorded, you don't need the master rights to the original, but you still need the synchronization rights.

What is a music license?

A music license is written permission to use music in a specific way. It states which song is involved, for which medium, in which territory, for how long and for what fee. Without a license, you risk claims or having your content taken offline. For commercials, this usually means a synchronization license and a master license. We negotiate and put everything in writing.

What is pre-cleared music?

Pre-cleared music is music whose rights have already been arranged in advance. The composer and publisher have granted permission for use with picture and audio, so you don't have to negotiate each track yourself. You pay for a license that matches your use and can get started right away. All tracks in TRX Music are pre-cleared. Read more about the TRX Music Library.