Rather than a long dissertation expounding on the province of a masterful music pitch, let’s instead dive right into the proper ways (and pitfalls to avoid) when sending your local Music Supervisor a song or piece of music for his/her consideration.

DO’s:

·      Be selective on what you pitch– only send what the Sup’s brief is asking for.

·      Send links-ie Box, Hightail, Dropbox, Disco etc.- Don’t crowd an already crowded Inbox.

·      Create songs with a general theme– Lyrics with highly specific messages are limiting.

·      Label music properly– Make sure all your metadata is on point.

·      Have good timing-send music when needed, they might very well forget about you by the time they actually get down to the business of selecting music if you send too early.

·      Be clear on what you send – Know your catalog and be specific on what you are pitching.

·      Have instrumental versions available –mandatory for all relevant video editors..period!

·      Be compliant– Have all tracks properly registered with the PRO’s and clear on ownership.

·      Be on Spotify(and/or other digital platforms)-Sups really like this format to keep themselves organized.

·      Consider networking– While the Pandemic has seriously curtailed our face-to-face opportunities, it can’t hurt to be involved with various songwriter organizations like ASCAP, BMI, SESAC and any others like Guild of Music Supervisors. Plus, if you’re an artist there are always going to be showcases to attend. But, in the meantime, Zoom , Zoom, Zoom!   

DON’T’s:

·      Send music that is not ready! You should only forward fully mastered, broadcast-ready tracks always.

·      Send links with an expiration date – You don’t want to limit that!

·      Follow up or pester– If they like your music, they will find you!

·      Ask “what are you working on these days”? – Do your research and be prepared.

·      Say “I’d love your feedback” – They have too music to listen as it is to offer proper critiques to everyone.

·      Assume that the Music Sup is in charge of placing your music – They have bosses ultimately, and they have to stay on budget.

·      Be unresponsive when it comes time to license a piece of your music on something – time is always of the essence. And, it’s just not a good look.

·      Be discouraged, Sups reject about 99.9% of all submissions-Their jobs count on them to be very discerning. Remember, it really is a Synch “Lottery” out there!