Background Music Services — A Quick Guide for Artists
Ask your parents (or maybe even grandparents) what MUZAK is, and you may be surprised. This is not a new thing. Background music (“in-store” or “overhead” music) has been around for many years. Fortunately, music has evolved from “elevator music” to feature various music from independent to established artists.
This is another opportunity for more exposure for your music and if your music is played, you will also get paid royalties. Most background music services will only add music that is directly licensed to them, meaning the only way to get your music played in stores they service — and to get paid for that play — is to license your music to them. This doesn’t mean that they own your music. It means they have your permission to use it. Of course, always read any contract or licensing agreement and have someone else check it over as well.
Imagine shopping in Macy’s, hearing your song blasting through the speakers and seeing someone whip out their phone to Shazam it. This additional exposure can lead to a growing fanbase on Apple Music and Spotify. Shazam now even allows users to directly stream songs previously Shazamed, in full. This counts as a play, and you can even add your “My Shazamed Tracks” playlist on both service.
To get you started, I have listed a selection of background music services that have previously accepted submissions from myself and other artists I’ve spoken with. It’s best to reach out via their general email on their website, first asking for their music submission process steps. Once you have the correct contact information, follow up with your most recent song only. If they like your latest song and want your whole back catalog of music, they will ask you. Don’t send everything in the first email. I’ve written a few articles in which I’ve covered outreach for opportunities like this in detail but short, friendly and to the point seems to work best.
Mood Media (Global)
Nightlife Music (Australia and New Zealand)
PlayNetwork (USA)
RX Music (USA/Canada)
Soundtrack Your Brand (Global)
Stingray Music (Canada and Australia)
StorePlay (Australia)
Was this helpful? Did I miss something? Let me know in the comments!
Originally published at https://www.linkedin.com.