Myth: Production Music Libraries Only Want Instrumentals

So, you’ve heard that to get your music into sync licensing libraries, you’ve gotta stick to instrumental bangers. Like, all melody, no words. It’s a common thought, and honestly, it makes a certain kind of sense. Film and TV often need background music that doesn’t distract from dialogue. But that’s just one piece of the puzzle.

TL;DR

• Vocals aren’t a career killer for sync.
• Many genres and moods thrive with vocals.
• The type of vocal matters, and so does the song.
• Vocal tracks can have huge commercial potential.
• Don’t limit yourself; explore the possibilities.

Let’s break down this “instrumentals only” idea. Imagine a massive buffet. You’re told the only things on offer are salads. That’s a bummer, right? What about the pasta, the roasted chicken, the decadent desserts? That’s what we’re going to unpack here. Many musicians pigeonhole themselves, thinking sync licensing is a solely instrumental game, and they miss out on incredible opportunities because of it. For a deeper understanding of the industry, be sure to read this article.

There’s definitely a reason why instrumentals are so popular in sync. Think about it: a dramatic scene in a movie. You want the viewers’ attention on the actors, the tension, the unfolding narrative. You don’t want a singer belting out lyrics about their ex or their weekend plans, unless, of course, it’s a very specific plot point or a music video within the show.

The “Blank Canvas” Effect

Instrumentals provide a sonic backdrop without demanding a specific interpretation of emotion or story. They’re like a skilled backdrop painter who can adapt to any scene you throw at them. This allows the director or music supervisor to insert their own emotional context and narrative into the music, rather than having the song’s lyrical content dictate it.

Broad Applicability

Because they don’t carry explicit lyrical baggage, instrumental tracks can theoretically fit a wider range of moods and genres. A powerful orchestral piece can underscore anything from a war documentary to a heartwarming family drama. A gritty electronic beat can propel a car chase or a futuristic sci-fi sequence.

Lower Rights Complexity (Sometimes)

While not always the case, instrumental tracks can sometimes have simpler rights situations. There’s no lead vocalist to track down for a feature, no lyricist whose co-writing credit needs careful negotiation. This can make them a more straightforward option for some projects, especially for music supervisors working under tight deadlines.

While many believe that production music libraries only seek instrumentals, this notion overlooks the diverse range of music they actually accept. In fact, vocal tracks can be just as valuable for sync licensing opportunities. For a deeper understanding of sync licensing and its significance in the music industry, you can explore the article titled “What is Sync Licensing & Why You Should Care” available at this link. This resource provides insights into how various types of music, including vocal pieces, can enhance the chances of getting placed in media projects.

Beyond the Background: When Vocals Shine

But here’s the kicker: the idea that vocals are universally unwelcome is a myth, and a rather limiting one at that. While it’s true that dialogue often takes center stage, there are countless scenarios in film, TV, advertising, and gaming where vocals are not just accepted, but actively sought after.

The “Featured Artist” Moment

Think about those iconic movie soundtrack moments. The scene where the protagonist finally achieves their dream, and a soaring vocal track kicks in. Or a coming-of-age montage set to a catchy indie pop song. These aren’t instrumental pieces; they’re songs that resonate because of the words and the voice.

Advertising’s Vocal Powerhouse

Advertising is a prime example of where vocals are king. A memorable jingle or a feel-good track with sung lyrics can make a product stick in a consumer’s mind. They’re looking for emotion, brand connection, and memorability. Often, a well-placed vocal line can achieve this far more effectively than an instrumental.

Storytelling Through Song

In many narrative contexts, music with lyrics is integral to telling the story. This could be a character singing their feelings, a period piece needing authentic music from a specific era with vocals, or a montage that relies on lyrical themes to advance the plot.

The Nuance of Vocal Tracks

So, if vocals aren’t a complete no-go, what’s the secret sauce? It’s not just about throwing words over a beat. The type of vocal, the genre of music, and the overall vibe of the track all play a huge role.

Lyrical Content: Relevance is Key

This is probably the most crucial factor. Are your lyrics about a deeply personal breakup that’s completely irrelevant to a car commercial? Probably not a good fit. But if your lyrics touch on universal themes like love, freedom, ambition, or overcoming challenges, you’re speaking the language of sync.

Vocal Style: Clarity and Emotion Matter

A mumbling, unintelligible vocal might work in a very specific experimental art film, but for most commercial sync placements, clarity is paramount. Whether it’s a powerful belt, a gentle croon, an anthemic chorus, or a cool, conversational delivery, the vocal needs to connect emotionally and be understood.

Genre Considerations

Certain genres naturally lend themselves more to vocal tracks in sync. Indie pop, folk, rock, R&B, hip-hop, electronic dance music (with vocal hooks), and singer-songwriter genres are all robust areas where vocal-led music is frequently sync licensed.

Making Your Vocal Tracks Sync-Ready

If you’ve got vocal tracks sitting on your hard drive, or if you’re someone who loves writing with words, don’t despair! There are concrete steps you can take to make those songs not just sync-friendly, but highly desirable.

Crafting Universal Themes

As mentioned, aim for lyrics that resonate broadly. Think about the core emotions and experiences that connect people. “Love is a battlefield,” “We’re all in this together,” “Chasing the sun” – these are timeless themes.

Prioritizing Production Quality

This is non-negotiable for any sync music, vocal or instrumental. Your vocals need to be mixed and mastered professionally. They should sit perfectly in the sonic landscape, not be buried or overpowering. Think crisp, clear, and impactful.

Creating “Vocal Chop” or Alternative Versions

Sometimes, a full vocal can be too much. This is where clever editing comes in. You can create instrumental-only versions of your tracks, but also consider offering versions that feature vocal chops, ad-libs, or a stripped-down vocal hook. These can be incredibly versatile for music supervisors.

Offering “Dry” Vocals

For advertising and some other uses, having a “dry” vocal track (meaning no heavy reverb or effects) can be essential. This gives the producer or editor maximum flexibility to add their own sonic treatments.

Many people believe that production music libraries only seek out instrumental tracks, but this is a common misconception. In reality, vocal tracks can also find a place in these sync libraries, as they can enhance various media projects. For more insights on how to effectively submit your music, you can check out this informative article on the submission process at That Pitch. Understanding the diverse needs of production music libraries can help you tailor your submissions for better chances of acceptance.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

It’s easy to fall into traps when you’re trying to break into sync licensing. Don’t worry, these are common hurdles that many artists face.

Mistake 1: Assuming “Vocal” Means “Distracting”

You might think of a full, soaring ballad and assume it will always overpower a scene.

• Fix: Consider the context. A powerful ballad can be perfect for a dramatic reveal or an emotional climax. It’s about matching the right vocal to the right moment.

Mistake 2: Relying Solely on Personal Lyrical Topics

Writing about your specific life struggles is cathartic, but it doesn’t always translate to broad appeal.

• Fix: Broaden your lyrical perspective. While authenticity is important, try to tap into universal human experiences. Think of themes that many people can connect with.

Mistake 3: Neglecting Vocal Production Quality

Poorly mixed or recorded vocals are an instant turn-off for music supervisors.

• Fix: Invest in professional mixing and mastering for your vocal tracks. Ensure the vocals are clear, present, and sit well within the overall production.

Mistake 4: Not Having Instrumental or Alternative Versions

Producers often need flexibility. A single, fully produced vocal track might be too rigid for their needs.

• Fix: Always provide instrumental versions of your vocal tracks. Also, consider creating versions with just vocal chops, ad-libs, or a stripped-down chorus.

Many people believe that production music libraries only seek instrumentals, but this is a common misconception. In fact, vocal tracks can also play a significant role in enhancing various media projects. For a deeper understanding of the diverse offerings in production music, you can explore this insightful article on the subject. It highlights how incorporating different styles, including vocals, can elevate the overall impact of your work. To learn more, check out this article which delves into the various aspects of music selection for production.

A Mini Case Study: The Indie Pop Breakthrough

Let’s imagine an indie pop artist named Chloe. She primarily writes catchy, upbeat songs about love, friendship, and exploring the world. She’s always loved adding her layered vocals and memorable hooks to her tracks. For a long time, she only submitted instrumental versions of her songs to sync libraries, believing that was the only way.

One day, she decided to submit a full vocal track to a playlist curated by a music supervisor known for placing upbeat indie music in lifestyle and travel shows. The track was called “Golden Hour Glow,” and it featured a bright synth melody, a driving beat, and Chloe’s clear, optimistic vocals singing about the feeling of freedom on a summer road trip.

Within a month, the track was sync licensed for a popular travel vlog series, used as the opening theme for several episodes. The music supervisor loved how the vocals captured the adventurous spirit of the show and how the lyrics enhanced the viewers’ experience of exotic locations. Chloe was thrilled. She realized that her signature vocal style, when coupled with relatable lyrics and excellent production, was exactly what many projects were looking for. She continued to create both vocal and instrumental versions, diversifying her sync opportunities.

Key Takeaways for Vocalists in Sync

• Vocals are not banned: Don’t let this myth limit your creative output.
• Relevance is king: Your lyrics need to connect with broader themes and emotions.
• Quality over quantity: Professional production of vocals is a must.
• Offer flexibility: Instrumental and chopped vocal versions are valuable.
• Explore diverse genres: Many vocal-friendly genres are in demand.

So, the next time you’re thinking about sync licensing, remember the buffet. Your vocal tracks can be a delicious feature, not just an excluded appetizer. Don’t be afraid to put your voice out there, and do it with confidence and quality.

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FAQs

1. What is production music?

Production music refers to pre-recorded music tracks that are sync licensed for use in various media projects such as films, TV shows, commercials, and online videos. These tracks are created specifically for easy sync licensing and quick integration into productions.

2. Do production music libraries only offer instrumental tracks?

No, production music libraries offer a wide range of music, including both instrumental and vocal tracks. While instrumentals are common due to their versatility, many sync libraries also provide songs with vocals to suit different project needs.

3. Why do some people believe production music libraries only want instrumentals?

This myth likely stems from the fact that instrumentals are often preferred in media because they do not interfere with dialogue or narration. However, production music libraries actively seek diverse content, including vocal tracks, to cater to various creative requirements.

4. Can vocal tracks from production music libraries be used in commercials and films?

Yes, vocal tracks from production music libraries can be sync licensed and used in commercials, films, TV shows, and other media projects, provided the appropriate sync licensing agreements are in place.

5. How can composers submit vocal music to production music libraries?

Composers interested in submitting vocal music should research individual production music libraries’ submission guidelines, which typically include providing high-quality recordings, clear metadata, and sometimes lyrics or vocal credits. Many sync libraries welcome vocal submissions alongside instrumentals.