how do you get a music publishing deal

3 min read 10-12-2024

Meta Description: Unlock the secrets to landing a music publishing deal! This comprehensive guide covers everything from crafting killer songs and building your network to navigating the legal aspects and maximizing your earning potential. Learn how to get your music heard by publishers and secure a deal that works for you.

Understanding Music Publishing

Before diving into how to get a deal, let's clarify what music publishing entails. A music publishing deal grants a publisher the right to administer your musical compositions (the songs themselves, not the recordings). This includes licensing your songs for use in films, television shows, commercials, video games, and more. In return, you receive royalties based on the usage of your music. Getting a publishing deal can significantly boost your income and career trajectory.

Crafting Killer Songs: The Foundation of Success

The most crucial step in securing a publishing deal is writing high-quality, marketable songs. Publishers are looking for songs with commercial potential – tracks with catchy melodies, relatable lyrics, and a unique sound.

Focus on Songwriting Craft

Master your instrument(s): Strong instrumental skills enhance your songwriting.
Develop your songwriting skills: Explore various songwriting techniques (e.g., co-writing, using different song structures).
Study successful songs: Analyze chart-topping hits to understand what makes them work.
Experiment with genres: Don't limit yourself to one genre. Explore diverse styles to discover your strengths.

Building a Strong Catalog

Aim to have a diverse body of work before actively seeking a publisher. A minimum of 10-15 strong, completed songs is often recommended. This shows publishers the range of your songwriting skills and potential for ongoing collaboration.

Networking: The Key to Getting Your Music Heard

Securing a music publishing deal rarely happens overnight. Building relationships within the industry is paramount.

Attend Industry Events

Conferences and showcases: Network with publishers, A&R representatives, and other industry professionals.
Workshops and seminars: Learn from experienced songwriters and publishers.
Local open mics and gigs: Showcase your talent and connect with potential collaborators and industry contacts.

Leverage Online Platforms

Social media: Actively engage with publishers and other creatives on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Online music platforms: Showcase your music on sites like SoundCloud and YouTube Music.
Professional networking sites: Utilize platforms designed for connecting industry professionals.

Finding the Right Publisher

Not all publishers are created equal. Research potential publishers, understanding their artist roster and their strengths. Look for publishers that align with your music style and career goals.

Understanding Publisher Types

Major publishers: Offer significant resources but often have a highly competitive process.
Independent publishers: May offer a more personalized approach, though resources may be more limited.
Boutique publishers: Specialize in specific genres or styles.

Preparing Your Pitch

Prepare a compelling pitch package which includes:

High-quality demos: Professionally produced recordings of your best songs.
Bio: A brief but engaging summary of your background and musical style.
Song list: A detailed list of your songs, including genre and tempo information.
Website or online portfolio: A central location for publishers to access your music and information.

The Legal Aspects of a Music Publishing Deal

Negotiating a publishing deal requires legal expertise. Before signing any agreement, seek advice from a music lawyer specializing in publishing contracts. Pay close attention to the following:

Ownership: Understand how your ownership rights will be divided.
Advance payments: Negotiate a fair advance, recognizing that it's an investment, not your total earnings.
Royalty rates: Ensure you receive a competitive royalty rate based on usage of your songs.
Term length: Understand the duration of your publishing agreement.

Maximizing Your Earning Potential

A publishing deal is a long-term investment. Continue to write high-quality songs, actively promote your work, and maintain strong relationships with your publisher to maximize your earnings.

Conclusion: The Journey to a Music Publishing Deal

Getting a music publishing deal requires dedication, talent, and persistence. By focusing on songwriting excellence, networking effectively, and understanding the legal landscape, you significantly increase your chances of success. Remember to always prioritize creating great music; that's the foundation upon which a successful publishing career is built.