Entertainment Glossary
Music production, film production, distribution, artist management, and entertainment industry terminology
3
A
A&R
Artists and Repertoire — the division of a record label responsible for discovering talent and overseeing artistic development.
A&R
Artists and Repertoire, the label division responsible for discovering talent and overseeing releases.
A&R (Artists and Repertoire)
The record label division responsible for discovering talent and overseeing artistic development.
A24
Independent film studio known for critically acclaimed, culturally influential films including Everything Everywhere All at Once and Moonlight.
A3E (Advanced Audio + Applications Exchange)
Conference connecting music technology innovators with audio professionals at the intersection of audio and technology.
ADR (Automated Dialogue Replacement)
The process of re-recording dialogue in a studio after filming to replace unusable production audio affected by noise, technical issues, or performance adjustments.
AI Music Generation
Artificial intelligence systems that compose, produce, or assist in creating music from text prompts or other inputs.
AI Music Tools
Software using artificial intelligence to assist with music creation and production.
AI Script Analysis
AI tools that evaluate screenplays for structure, dialogue quality, commercial potential, and audience appeal.
ASCAP
American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers - a performing rights organization that licenses and collects royalties for public performances.
ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers)
Performance rights organization collecting royalties when members' music is publicly performed.
Above the Line
Creative talent and costs that are negotiated before production begins.
Above-the-Line Costs
Budget items for key creative talent including writers, directors, and principal actors.
Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS)
Professional organization of filmmakers that presents the Academy Awards (Oscars) and preserves film history.
Acquisition
The process by which a distributor or platform purchases or licenses rights to distribute a film.
Advance
An upfront payment made by a label or publisher to an artist or songwriter, recouped from future earnings before royalties are paid.
Advance
Upfront payment from a label or publisher against future royalties, recouped from earnings before the artist receives additional payments.
Album Cycle
The coordinated release and promotion period around a major project.
Algorithmic Playlist Targeting
Strategic optimization of song metadata and release timing to increase chances of algorithmic playlist inclusion on streaming platforms.
All-In Deal
A recording contract where the artist's royalty must cover producer fees and other costs.
Amazon Music
Amazon's music streaming service available in free, Prime, and Unlimited tiers with Alexa voice integration.
Amazon Prime Video
Amazon's streaming service included with Prime membership, known for prestige originals and sports rights.
American Film Market (AFM)
Major film industry market where independent films are bought and sold by distributors worldwide.
Ancillary Revenue Streams
Secondary income sources beyond primary distribution including merchandising, licensing, music, and product placement revenues.
Ancillary Rights
Secondary revenue sources beyond primary distribution including merchandise, gaming, and licensing opportunities.
Anghami
The leading music streaming platform in the Middle East and North Africa region.
Answer Print
First completed film print from the laboratory that shows final color correction and technical quality for approval before mass printing
Apple Music
Apple's subscription music streaming service with 100+ million subscribers and deep integration across Apple devices.
Arthouse Film
Films made primarily for artistic merit rather than commercial appeal, often shown in independent theaters.
Artist Advance
Upfront payment to an artist recoupable from future royalty earnings.
Artist Branding
Strategic development of an artist visual identity, story, and market positioning.
Artist Development
The comprehensive process of nurturing an artist's creative growth, brand identity, and career trajectory.
Artist Manager
A professional who guides the career development and business affairs of musicians.
Artist Royalty Split
Division of earnings between collaborators on a musical work or recording.
Attach
To secure a commitment from key talent, director, or financing for a film project.
Audio Interface
Hardware connecting microphones and instruments to computers for digital recording and playback.
Audiomack
Free music streaming platform popular in hip-hop and African music communities with no paywall barriers.
Audit Rights
Contractual permission for profit participants to examine studio financial records to verify accurate royalty calculations.
B
BMI
Broadcast Music, Inc. - a major performing rights organization that collects and distributes royalties for songwriters and publishers.
BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.)
Performance rights organization collecting and distributing royalties for public performance of music.
Back End
Profit participation payments made to talent after a production recoups its costs.
Backend Points
A percentage of film profits or revenue paid to key talent as part of their compensation package.
Bandcamp
Artist-direct platform where fans purchase music and merchandise with artists receiving 80-85% of sales.
Beat Sheet
A document outlining the major plot points and emotional beats of a screenplay.
Beatmaker
A producer who specializes in creating instrumental beats and backing tracks for artists.
Beatmaking
The craft of creating instrumental musical compositions, typically using digital audio workstations, samplers, and synthesizers.
Below The Line Crew
Technical and crafts personnel who execute the physical production aspects of filmmaking under department head supervision.
Below the Line
Technical and production costs that occur during the actual filmmaking process.
Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale)
Major international film festival combining artistic competition with significant industry market activities.
Best Boy
Second-in-command to the gaffer (electric) or key grip who manages crew and equipment.
Bible
A comprehensive document detailing a TV series concept, characters, world, and story arcs.
Billboard
The authoritative music industry publication tracking charts, news, and business developments since 1894.
Billboard Music Conference
Annual music industry conference covering trends, business strategies, and networking hosted by Billboard.
Blanket License
A license granting permission to use any song in a PRO's catalog for a set period.
Blind Deal
A studio commitment to produce a project from specific talent without knowing what the project will be.
Booking Agent
A licensed professional who secures live performance opportunities for artists.
Boomplay
Africa's largest music streaming platform with 80+ million users across the continent.
Bottle Episode
A TV episode produced cheaply using limited locations and existing sets.
Box Office
Revenue generated from theatrical ticket sales, a key measure of a film's commercial performance.
Brand Partnership Integration
Strategic collaboration between artists and brands that authentically integrates commercial messaging with artistic content and fan experiences.
Breakage
Contract deductions originally for damaged records, now often applied to digital sales.
Bridge Financing
Short-term loans that provide funds until permanent financing is secured for a film production.
Bus Processing
Audio processing technique that applies effects to grouped channels simultaneously, creating cohesive sound character across multiple elements.
Buyout Fee
A flat payment structure for live performances that replaces percentage-based revenue sharing, providing guaranteed compensation regardless of ticket sales.
Buyout Negotiation Structure
Strategic approach to negotiating contract termination or rights acquisition deals that balance immediate payment with long-term value considerations.
C
Call Sheet
The daily production document detailing shooting schedule, cast calls, crew calls, and logistics.
Cannes Film Festival
The world's most prestigious film festival, held annually in Cannes, France, awarding the Palme d'Or.
Career Arc Planning
Long-term strategic planning that maps an artist's career progression across multiple phases, from development to legacy monetization.
Cast Attachment
When a recognizable actor formally commits to star in a project, significantly boosting its ability to attract financing.
Cast Contingent
Financing commitment dependent on attachment of approved cast members.
Casting
Process of selecting actors to portray characters in film and television.
Casting Director
A professional who identifies and recommends actors for roles in film, television, and theater productions.
Catalog
The complete collection of recorded works owned or controlled by an artist, label, or publisher.
Catalog Acquisition
Purchasing the ownership rights to an artist's or publisher's existing music catalog as an investment asset.
Catalog Reversion Rights
Contractual provision allowing artists or songwriters to reclaim ownership of their music catalog after specified time periods or conditions are met.
Catalog Value
The financial worth of a songwriter's or artist's body of work, increasingly important as music rights become an investment asset class.
Catalogue
The complete collection of musical works or recordings owned or controlled by an artist, songwriter, label, or publisher.
Chain of Title
Documentation proving legal ownership of intellectual property rights through all transactions.
Cinematographer
The director of photography responsible for visual storytelling through camera and lighting choices.
Clearance
The legal process of obtaining permission to use copyrighted material like samples or compositions.
Cloned Negative
High-quality duplicate negative created from the original camera negative to protect against damage during printing processes
Co-Production
A filmmaking arrangement where production companies from two or more countries collaborate, sharing costs and accessing each country's incentives.
Co-Publishing
A publishing deal where the songwriter and publisher share ownership of the copyright.
Coachella
Iconic annual music festival in California's Coachella Valley, known for trendsetting lineups and cultural influence.
Cold Open
A scene at the beginning of a TV episode or film that plays before the opening credits.
Collaborator Split
The agreed percentage of royalties each contributor receives from a song.
Collection Society
An organization that collects and distributes royalties to rights holders when their music is performed or reproduced.
Color Grading
The process of altering and enhancing the color of motion picture footage.
Comic-Con International
Annual pop culture convention in San Diego where studios preview major film, television, and comic properties.
Commission Structure
The percentage and terms defining how a manager's payment is calculated from artist income.
Completion Bond
Insurance policy guaranteeing film delivery within budget and schedule, protecting investors from cost overruns.
Completion Fund
Financing specifically designated to cover the costs of finishing a film that has run out of money during production or post-production.
Completion Guarantee
Insurance that ensures a film will be completed and delivered according to specifications.
Completion Guarantee Bond
Insurance policy that guarantees film completion and delivery even if production exceeds budget or encounters problems.
Completion Guarantor
A specialized insurer that guarantees a film will be completed on budget, enabling production financing from lenders.
Compressor
Audio processing device that reduces dynamic range by automatically lowering volume levels above a set threshold, creating more consistent audio levels.
Conforming
Process of matching final edited picture with original high-resolution source material for finishing.
Content Library Valuation
Methods for assessing the financial value of film and TV content catalogs.
Content Pipeline
The flow of projects through development, production, and release stages.
Content Pipeline
The organized flow of projects through development, production, and release stages at a studio or production company.
Contingent Compensation
Payment owed to talent based on a project achieving specific performance milestones.
Controlled Composition
A song written or co-written by the artist under contract with a record label.
Coverage
The variety of camera angles and shots captured to provide editing options for a scene.
Coverage (Film)
The variety of camera angles and shot types captured during filming to provide editing options.
Creative Producer
A producer focused on story, talent, and creative elements rather than primarily on financing and business aspects.
Credit Block
Standardized text containing film credits, ratings, and legal information required in all advertising and promotional materials
Cross Boarding
Shooting multiple projects simultaneously to maximize location, cast, and crew efficiency across productions.
Cross-Collateralization
Contractual arrangement where losses from one revenue stream offset profits from another, affecting how artists recoup advances across multiple income sources.
Cross-Platform Content Strategy
Coordinated approach to creating and distributing varied content across multiple digital platforms to maximize audience reach and engagement.
Cue Sheet
A document listing all music used in a film, TV show, or video production for royalty tracking.
D
DGA
Directors Guild of America, the union representing film and television directors.
DSP
Digital Service Provider—streaming platforms and download stores that deliver music to consumers.
Dailies
Raw footage from each day of filming, reviewed by key creatives to assess progress and quality.
Day And Date
Simultaneous release strategy launching content across multiple platforms on the same day.
Day Out Of Days Report
Production scheduling document tracking each cast member's specific work days throughout the filming period.
Day Player
An actor hired for a single day or brief period, typically for small roles with few scenes.
Day Rate
A flat fee paid to musicians, crew, or producers for a single day of work.
Day-Out-of-Days
Schedule showing which cast and crew are needed for each shooting day.
Day-and-Date
A release strategy where a film debuts simultaneously in theaters and on streaming/VOD platforms, disrupting traditional windowing.
Deadline Hollywood
Breaking news publication covering entertainment industry deals, casting, and business developments.
Deezer
French-origin global music streaming platform with strong presence in Europe, Latin America, and emerging markets.
Deliverables
The comprehensive package of materials—master files, documentation, legal clearances—required by distributors to release a film.
Delivery Requirements
Technical and legal materials distributors require including master files, documentation, and marketing assets.
Delivery Schedule
Timeline specifying when completed film elements must be submitted to distributors, broadcasters, or streaming platforms.
Demo
A rough recording of a song used to showcase material to labels, publishers, or collaborators.
Demo Deal
Agreement where a label funds recording demos before a full record deal.
Development Executive
Studio or production company employee responsible for identifying, acquiring, and guiding projects through development.
Development Hell
The extended, often troubled development phase where a project remains stuck without progressing to production.
Digital Aggregator
A service that distributes music from independent artists to streaming platforms.
Digital Service Provider Fee
Commission percentage taken by streaming platforms and digital retailers from gross revenue before distributing payments to rights holders.
Direct-to-Fan
Sales and engagement channels controlled by artists rather than intermediaries.
Direct-to-Fan Platform
Services enabling artists to sell music, merchandise, and experiences directly to fans without intermediaries.
Director's Cut
A version of a film edited according to the director's vision, before studio modifications.
Director's Statement
A written document where the director articulates their personal vision, thematic intentions, and creative approach for a film project.
Directors Guild of America (DGA)
Labor union representing film and television directors negotiating contracts and administering awards.
Disney+
Disney's streaming platform featuring Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, National Geographic, and Disney content.
Distribution Deal
An agreement between an artist or label and a distributor to deliver music to streaming platforms.
Distribution Fee
The percentage of revenue that distributors retain for releasing and marketing films.
Distribution Strategy
The comprehensive plan for how a film will reach audiences across theatrical, digital, streaming, and ancillary markets.
Distribution Waterfall
The sequential order in which streaming and sales revenues are distributed among various stakeholders including platforms, distributors, labels, and artists.
Distribution Window
Specific time periods for each format of a film's release, from theatrical to streaming.
Dolby Atmos Music
An immersive, spatial audio format that places sounds in a three-dimensional space around the listener for a more enveloping experience.
Domestic Gross
The total box office revenue a film earns within its home country, typically the United States and Canada combined.
Drop
The climactic moment in a song where the main beat, bass, or hook hits after a buildup, creating maximum energy and impact.
Drop
The release of new music, often with strategic timing and promotion.
Dynamic Range Control
Production technique managing the difference between loud and quiet portions of music to optimize impact while maintaining musical dynamics.
E
EP (Extended Play)
A release format longer than a single but shorter than a full album, typically 4-6 tracks.
EPK (Electronic Press Kit)
A digital package containing an artist's bio, photos, music, videos, and press materials.
Episodic Television
Television content structured in standalone episodes that can be viewed independently without requiring sequential viewing.
Equity Financing (Film)
Investment capital in exchange for ownership share and participation in film profits.
Estimated Delivery
The projected date when a completed film and all required materials will be delivered to distributors.
Executive Consultant
Industry veteran who provides strategic guidance and expertise to productions while maintaining minimal day-to-day involvement.
F
FOH (Front of House)
The audio mixing position typically located in the audience area where the sound engineer controls what everyone hears.
Fan Data Platform
Tools that help artists collect, analyze, and activate fan data directly.
Fan Funding
Direct financial support from fans for music creation and artist activities.
Fan Monetization
Converting fan engagement into revenue through direct purchases, subscriptions, experiences, and community access.
Fan Token
Digital assets that give holders voting rights, access, or perks tied to an artist, team, or entertainment property.
Feature
A guest appearance by another artist on a track, credited as "featuring" in the song title.
Festival Production Scaling
Process of adapting touring productions to festival constraints while maintaining artistic impact within shared infrastructure and time limitations.
Festival Strategy
Coordinated approach to film festival submissions and premieres designed to maximize industry exposure and acquisition potential
Film Budget
The estimated total cost of producing a film, covering all phases from development through delivery.
Film Commission
Government agency promoting and supporting film production in their region.
Film Distribution
The process of making a completed film available to audiences through various channels.
Film Festival
Curated event showcasing films, often premiere venue for new work.
Film Festival Strategy
Approach to festival submissions, premieres, and leveraging festival exposure.
Film Financing
The process of securing funding to produce a film from various sources including investors, studios, and incentives.
Film Market
Trade event where films are bought and sold internationally.
Film Market Screening
Private exhibition of films for industry buyers, distributors, and sales agents during film markets and festivals.
Film Production
The process of creating a motion picture from initial concept through finished product.
Final Approved Script
The locked version of a screenplay that production is based upon.
Final Cut
The contractual right to approve a film's ultimate creative decisions without studio override.
First Look Deal
An agreement giving a studio the first opportunity to develop or purchase a creator's projects.
Foreign Sales
International distribution rights licensing to generate revenue from global territories outside domestic markets.
Format Bible
Comprehensive document detailing all creative and production elements needed to reproduce a television format in different markets.
Four Walls
A venue rental arrangement where the artist pays for the space and keeps all revenue.
Four-Quadrant
A film designed to appeal to all major audience demographics—male, female, over 25, and under 25—maximizing commercial potential.
Four-Walling
Renting a theater directly rather than working with an exhibitor.
Franchise
A media property with multiple installments, merchandise, and brand extension potential.
Franchise Strategy
Long-term planning for expanding intellectual property across multiple productions.
Front of House
Audio mixing position and equipment located in the audience area, responsible for controlling the sound that audiences hear during live performances.
Frontline Release
A new release receiving active marketing and promotion from a label.
G
Gaana
Major Indian music streaming service owned by Times Internet with extensive Bollywood and regional content.
Gap Financing
Loans secured against unsold distribution rights to fill budget gaps in film financing.
Ghost Producer
A producer who creates music that is credited to and released under another artist's name.
Grammy Awards
Annual awards ceremony honoring achievements in the music industry, presented by the Recording Academy.
Green Light
Official studio approval for a project to move into production with committed financing.
Greenlight
The official approval to proceed with full production, committing budget and resources to a project.
Greenlight Committee
Studio executives who formally approve projects to move into production.
Gross Participation
Compensation tied to a film's gross revenue rather than net profits, providing more reliable backend earnings.
Gross Points
Profit participation calculated as a percentage of a film's total revenue before deductions.
Gross Receipt Definition
Contractual specification of which revenue streams and deductions apply when calculating gross receipts for profit participation.
Guarantee vs Door
Payment structures for live performances—fixed fee versus percentage of ticket sales.
H
HBO Max
Warner Bros. Discovery's streaming platform featuring HBO series, DC films, and Max Originals.
Harry Fox Agency
An organization that issues mechanical licenses and collects royalties for music publishers.
Holdback
A contractual restriction preventing a film from being released in certain markets or formats for a specified time.
Holdback Period
Contractual timeframe where distribution in one window is delayed to protect revenues in another window.
Holding Deal
Contract paying talent a retainer fee to remain exclusively available for potential future projects.
Hospitality Rider
The contract section specifying backstage accommodations, food, beverages, and amenities for artists and crew.
Hulu
Disney-owned streaming service combining next-day network TV with originals and live TV options.
I
IP (Intellectual Property)
Creative works or ideas that can be owned and licensed for adaptation.
IP Adaptation
Creating film and TV content from existing intellectual property sources.
ISRC (International Standard Recording Code)
A unique 12-character code that identifies individual sound recordings.
In-Ear Monitor (IEM)
Custom earpieces that allow performers to hear themselves and their band during live shows.
Independent Film
Films produced outside the major studio system, typically with smaller budgets and greater creative freedom.
Input List
A detailed document listing every audio source requiring a microphone or direct input during a performance.
International Sales Agent
Company that sells distribution rights to buyers in territories worldwide.
Interpolation
Recreating a portion of an existing song rather than using the original recording.
J
K
Key Art
Primary visual marketing materials including posters, logos, and graphics used across promotional campaigns.
Key Man Clause
Contract provision that allows artists to terminate agreements if specific essential personnel leave the management company, label, or agency.
Key Person Clause
A contract provision allowing an artist to exit if a specific manager or executive leaves the company.
Key Set
Primary filming location or constructed set where major scenes occur, requiring significant production design investment and scheduling priority
L
Label Services
A la carte record label functions offered to independent artists who retain ownership of their music.
Letterbox
The practice of adding horizontal black bars above and below video to display widescreen content on standard aspect ratio screens without cropping.
Letterboxd
A social film discovery platform where users log, rate, and review films, building communities around shared cinematic taste.
Limited Series
A television show designed to tell a complete story within one season.
Line Producer
Production executive responsible for daily operations and budget management.
Listening Party
An exclusive event where fans and industry gather to hear new music before public release.
Load-In/Load-Out
The process of moving equipment into and out of a venue before and after a live performance, including setup and breakdown time requirements.
Load-in Schedule Optimization
Strategic planning of equipment setup timing and crew coordination to maximize efficiency and minimize venue rental costs during load-in periods.
Location Fee
Payment to property owners for permission to film on their premises.
Location Scout
A professional who finds and evaluates potential filming locations that meet production requirements.
Lock Out
Exclusive studio booking that blocks all other clients for a period of time.
Locked Picture
Finalized edit approved for sound and color finishing, with no further picture changes permitted.
Locked Reel
Finalized sequence or act of a film that cannot be changed, allowing specific post-production departments to begin final work
Logline
A one or two sentence summary that captures the essential premise and hook of a film.
Look Book
Visual presentation conveying a project intended aesthetic and mood.
M
MIDEM
International music industry conference and market connecting labels, publishers, and music professionals globally.
MPAA
Motion Picture Association of America - the trade association representing major film studios and streaming services.
Master Recording
The original, final recording of a song from which all copies are made.
Mastering
The final step of audio post-production that prepares a recording for distribution.
Mechanical Royalty
Payment to songwriters and publishers when their composition is reproduced on physical media or as a digital download.
Merch
Branded merchandise sold by artists as a revenue stream and fan engagement tool.
Metadata
Digital information tags attached to music files containing credits, rights, and identification data essential for streaming and royalty distribution.
Minimum Guarantee
Advance payment from a distributor against future revenue for distribution rights.
Mix
The process of blending individual recorded tracks into a cohesive stereo or surround sound recording.
Mixing
The process of combining multiple audio tracks into a final stereo or multichannel sound.
Mixing Console
Audio equipment used to combine, balance, and process multiple audio signals during recording or performance.
Monitor Engineer
Audio specialist responsible for creating custom monitor mixes for each performer, ensuring they can hear themselves and other musicians clearly on stage.
Monitor Mix
The customized audio blend each performer hears on stage to stay in time and tune during live performance.
Music Bed
Background instrumental music designed to support vocals, dialogue, or visual content.
Music Brief
Specification document describing music needed for a sync opportunity.
Music Business Association
Trade organization advancing music commerce through networking, education, and industry collaboration.
Music Catalog
The complete collection of musical compositions and recordings owned or controlled by an artist, publisher, or label.
Music Copyright
Legal rights protecting original musical works and recordings from unauthorized use.
Music Distributor
A company that delivers music to streaming platforms and digital stores.
Music Library
Catalog of pre-cleared music available for licensing in productions.
Music Licensing
Legal authorization to use copyrighted music in various contexts.
Music Licensing Collective
Organization that collects and distributes royalties on behalf of rights holders.
Music Manager
A professional who guides and oversees an artist's career development and business affairs.
Music Marketing Campaign
Coordinated promotional activities supporting a music release or tour.
Music Metadata
The descriptive information attached to music files including credits, rights ownership, and catalog identifiers.
Music Metadata Standards
Standardized formats for encoding song information that enables proper royalty tracking.
Music NFT
Blockchain-based digital ownership of music-related assets and experiences.
Music Promotion
Marketing activities to increase awareness and consumption of musical releases.
Music Publishing
The business of acquiring, protecting, and monetizing rights to musical compositions.
Music Royalty
Payments made to rights holders when music is used, including mechanical, performance, and sync royalties.
Music Streaming Analytics
Data and metrics tracking music performance across streaming platforms.
Music Supervision
Selecting and licensing music for film, TV, commercials, and other visual media.
Music Supervisor
Professional who selects and licenses music for film, TV, games, and advertising.
Music Sync Agent
Representative who secures placement of music in film, TV, advertising, and games.
Music Video
Visual content created to accompany and promote musical recordings.
N
NAMM Show
Annual music products trade show where musical instrument and technology manufacturers showcase new gear.
NFT (Music)
Blockchain-based digital collectibles that can represent unique or limited music assets.
Negative Cost
The total cost of producing a film before marketing and distribution expenses, including all production and post-production costs.
Negative Pickup
Distribution agreement where distributor commits to purchase completed film for predetermined price upon delivery.
Neighboring Rights
Performance royalties paid to recording artists and record labels when their recordings are played publicly, separate from songwriter performance royalties.
Net Profits
A film's revenue minus all costs as calculated by studio accounting, often structured to show minimal or no profits.
Netflix
The world's largest subscription streaming service with 260+ million subscribers and major original content production.
O
One Sheet
A single-page promotional document summarizing an artist or release for industry professionals.
One-Line Schedule
A streamlined production schedule showing one line per scene with key logistics.
One-Sheet
A single-page promotional document summarizing an artist or release for industry professionals.
Option
Payment for exclusive rights to develop intellectual property into a film or show for a specified period.
Option Agreement
Contract giving exclusive rights to purchase property within a timeframe.
Overall Deal
An exclusive agreement where a creator works solely for one studio or network in exchange for guaranteed compensation.
P
P&A (Prints and Advertising)
The marketing and distribution budget for releasing a film to audiences.
P&A Budget
Prints and Advertising budget—the marketing and distribution costs spent to release a film, separate from production costs.
PRO (Performance Rights Organization)
Organizations that collect and distribute performance royalties to songwriters and publishers.
Packaging
The practice of bundling multiple agency clients—writer, director, actors—into a single project.
Pandora
Internet radio pioneer offering personalized stations based on the Music Genome Project algorithm.
Parallel Processing
Mixing technique that blends a dry signal with a heavily processed version of the same signal to maintain natural character while adding impact.
Paramount+
Paramount Global's streaming platform featuring CBS, Paramount films, Showtime, and Star Trek franchise.
Peacock
NBCUniversal's streaming service featuring NBC content, Universal films, and live sports.
Performance Royalty
Payment to songwriters and publishers when their composition is publicly performed or broadcast.
Phantom Power
Electrical power supplied through microphone cables to operate condenser microphones and active DI boxes during recording and live performance.
Pick-Up
Additional shooting done after principal photography to capture missing or improved footage.
Pick-Ups
Additional filming done after principal photography to capture missing shots or improve specific scenes.
Pickup
Brief additional shooting after principal photography to capture missing shots or address editorial needs.
Picture Lock
Final approval of edited footage sequence, preventing further changes and enabling sound design and color work.
Pitch Deck
A visual presentation used to sell a film or TV project to investors or studios.
Platform Exclusivity Window
Limited-time period where new releases are available exclusively on one streaming platform before wider distribution.
Playdate
Scheduled screening period for a film at a specific theater or group of theaters, typically part of theatrical distribution strategy
Playlist Curator
Individual or algorithm responsible for selecting and organizing music for streaming platform playlists, significantly influencing artist exposure and streaming numbers.
Playlist Pitching
Process of submitting music to streaming platform curators for playlist consideration and promotion.
Playlist Placement
Getting songs added to curated playlists on streaming platforms.
Post-Production
The phase of filmmaking after principal photography where footage is edited and finished.
Pre-Production
The planning phase between green light and filming where all production elements are organized.
Pre-Sales
Distribution agreements signed before a film is completed, providing upfront financing.
Pre-Save Campaign
A marketing initiative that lets fans save unreleased music to their streaming libraries.
Pre-Visualization
Creating rough animated versions of scenes before filming to plan camera work, timing, and visual effects.
Prestige Picture
High-quality film produced primarily for awards recognition and critical acclaim.
Principal Photography
The main period when a film or TV show is being shot.
Producer Offset
Tax incentive allowing film producers to claim percentage of eligible production spending as tax reduction or refundable credit
Producers Guild of America (PGA)
Professional organization representing film, television, and new media producers with awards and advocacy.
Production Bible
A comprehensive document containing all creative guidelines, character details, and visual references for a production.
Production Design
Creating the visual world of a film through sets, locations, and environments.
Production Incentive
Tax credits, rebates, or other benefits offered to productions shooting in a location.
Production Rider
Technical specifications document outlining all audio, lighting, and stage production requirements for an artist's live performance.
Proof of Concept
A short film or visual demonstration created to prove a project's viability and attract financing or distribution interest.
Protective Master
High-quality archival copy of the completed film stored separately to protect against damage or loss of other film elements
Publishing Administration Deal
Agreement where a company handles copyright administration, royalty collection, and licensing for songwriters while they retain ownership of their compositions.
Publishing Rights
The legal rights to a musical composition, as distinct from the recording.
Publishing Split
The agreed-upon percentage division of songwriting copyright ownership and royalties among all contributors to a musical composition.
Publishing Split Memorandum
Legal document detailing ownership percentages among songwriters and publishers for a composition.
Q
R
RIAA
Recording Industry Association of America - trade organization representing US record labels and distributors.
Record Deal
A contractual agreement between an artist and record label defining terms for recording, releasing, and profiting from music.
Record Label
A company that produces, markets, and distributes recorded music and manages artist careers.
Recording Academy
Organization of music professionals that produces the Grammy Awards and advocates for music creators.
Recoupment
The process of recovering advances and costs from an artist's royalties before paying additional income.
Recoupment Corridor
Specific sequence and priority order in which different investors and stakeholders recover their investments from film revenues.
Regional Distribution Strategy
Targeted release approach that customizes distribution timing, platforms, and marketing for specific geographic markets and cultural preferences.
Release Radar
Personalized Spotify playlist featuring new music from artists a user follows.
Release Strategy
Coordinated plan for timing and sequencing music releases for maximum impact.
Reshoot
Additional filming after principal photography ends, typically to address issues found in editing.
Residuals
Ongoing payments to performers and creatives when their work is reused, rerun, or distributed in new formats.
Revenue Share Agreement
Contract structure where parties split income from music projects based on predetermined percentages rather than fixed fees.
Rider
A list of requirements that must be provided for an artist at a performance.
Rights Clearance Pipeline
Systematic process for identifying, securing, and managing all necessary legal permissions for music use in various commercial applications.
Rights Reversion
Contractual provision allowing original rights holders to reclaim property rights after specific conditions or time periods.
Roadshow Release
Premium theatrical presentation with reserved seating, higher ticket prices, and limited engagements, often including intermissions
Rolling Stone
Iconic music and culture magazine covering artists, albums, and the intersection of music with society since 1967.
Rotten Tomatoes
A review aggregation platform that scores films based on the percentage of positive reviews from approved critics and audiences.
Rough Cut
Initial edit assembly of footage with basic scene structure but unfinished pacing, effects, and audio mixing.
Royalties
Payments made to rights holders for the use of their intellectual property, particularly musical works.
Royalty Statement
Periodic accounting document detailing music earnings and deductions.
S
SAG-AFTRA
The labor union representing actors, announcers, and other media professionals.
SESAC
Performing rights organization representing songwriters and publishers with a selective, invitation-based membership model.
SVOD
Subscription Video on Demand services like Netflix, Disney+, or HBO Max.
SVOD Original
Content produced exclusively for subscription streaming platforms.
SXSW
South by Southwest - annual convergence of film, music, and interactive festivals in Austin, Texas each March.
Sales Agent
Company that licenses film distribution rights to buyers across international territories.
Sample Clearance
Legal process of obtaining permission and negotiating payment terms to use portions of existing recordings in new musical works.
Sample Library
Collection of pre-recorded sounds and loops licensed for use in music production.
Sampling
The practice of incorporating portions of existing recordings into new music.
Screen International
Trade publication covering international film industry with focus on European and global markets.
Screenwriter
A professional who writes scripts for films, television, and other visual media.
Script Coverage
Professional analysis and summary of screenplays for development evaluation.
Script Doctor
An experienced screenwriter hired to revise, polish, or fix problems in an existing screenplay, often uncredited.
Script Supervisor
The crew member responsible for tracking continuity and maintaining script records during filming.
Second Unit Director
Director responsible for filming supplementary scenes, action sequences, and coverage that doesn't require principal cast members.
Sensitivity Reader
Consultant who reviews content for accurate and respectful representation of specific groups.
Session File
Digital project files containing all audio tracks, edits, effects, and mixing settings for a recording, preserving the complete production for future access.
Session Musician
A professional musician hired to perform on recordings or live performances without being a permanent member of the band or artist's group.
Shooting Ratio
Ratio of total footage filmed to footage used in the final cut of a film or video.
Shopping Agreement
Non-exclusive agreement to present material to potential buyers.
Showrunner
The creative leader responsible for day-to-day production of a television series.
Sidechain
Audio processing technique where one signal controls effects applied to another signal, commonly used for pumping effects and frequency management.
Sliding Scale
Performance-based compensation structure where payments increase based on project success metrics like box office or ratings.
Social Audio
Short-form music content created for social media platforms.
Soft Drop
Gradual reduction in a film's theater count over several weeks based on box office performance rather than abrupt removal
Soft Money
Film financing from tax incentives, grants, and subsidies that reduces the amount of private investment needed.
Soft Opening
Limited theatrical release in select markets to test audience response before wide release expansion.
Sony Music Entertainment
Major record label conglomerate including Columbia Records, RCA Records, Epic Records, and Sony Music Nashville.
SoundCloud
User-upload audio platform where independent artists share music directly with fans and industry discovers emerging talent.
Soundcheck
Pre-show technical rehearsal where performers and engineers test and adjust sound equipment and levels.
Spec Script
A screenplay written without commission or assignment, created on speculation of future sale.
Spec Work
Creative work performed without guaranteed compensation, created to demonstrate abilities or secure future employment.
Split Agreement
Contract defining how royalties and ownership are divided among collaborators.
Split Sheet
Document detailing ownership percentages and songwriting credits for a musical composition.
Splits
The agreed-upon division of songwriting credits and royalties among collaborators.
Spotify
The world's largest music streaming platform with over 600 million users and 230+ million premium subscribers.
Stem
A grouped audio track containing multiple individual elements, used for mixing, mastering, and licensing purposes.
Stem
An individual audio track or group of tracks isolated from a full mix, used for remixing, mastering, sync licensing, or live performance.
Stem Distribution
Releasing individual component tracks of a song separately, enabling remixing, sync licensing, and fan creativity.
Stem Master
A final mixed version of a song separated into component groups like drums, bass, vocals, and instruments for flexible use.
Stem Mastering
A mastering approach where the final mix is divided into groups (stems) of related instruments, allowing the mastering engineer more control than traditional stereo mastering.
Stems
Individual audio tracks or grouped elements of a song that can be mixed independently for remixes, licensing, or live performance.
Step Deal
Contract structure providing incremental payments and options as a project progresses through development, pre-production, and production phases
Streaming Exclusive
Content created specifically for a streaming platform that will not receive theatrical distribution.
Streaming Fraud
Artificial inflation of streaming numbers through bot farms, fake accounts, or manipulation schemes to increase royalties.
Streaming Manipulation
Artificial inflation of streaming numbers through fraudulent or deceptive practices.
Streaming Royalties
Payments artists receive when their music is played on streaming platforms.
Streaming Window
The period during which content is exclusively available on a specific platform.
Street Date
Official release date when a film becomes available for home video purchase or rental across all retail and digital platforms
Studio Time
Hours booked at a professional recording facility for music creation and production.
Sundance Film Festival
The premier American independent film festival, held annually in Park City, Utah, known for discovering new filmmakers.
Sunset Clause
A provision that reduces or eliminates a manager's commission on deals after their contract ends.
Superfan
A highly engaged fan willing to spend significantly on merchandise, experiences, and exclusive content beyond typical consumption.
Superfan Monetization
Strategies for generating revenue from an artist most dedicated supporters.
Sync Fee
One-time payment for the right to synchronize music with visual media.
Sync License
Permission to use music synchronized with visual media like film, TV, or ads.
Sync Licensing
Permission to use music synchronized with visual media like film, TV, or advertisements.
Sync Pitch
Targeted submission of music to supervisors for specific media projects, including customized presentations highlighting relevant tracks for placement opportunities.
Sync Placement
Licensing music for use in film, TV, ads, or games.
T
Talent Agent
A licensed professional who procures employment opportunities for performers.
Talent Attach
Securing commitment from actors or directors to a project before full financing.
Talent Holding Fee
Payment made to secure talent availability during development periods when production start dates remain uncertain.
Talent Packaging
Bundling multiple talent clients together for a production project.
Talent Quote
An actor's established fee based on their most recent comparable role, used as baseline for salary negotiations on new projects
Tax Incentives (Film)
Government programs offering tax credits or rebates to attract film production to specific locations.
Temp Mix
Temporary audio mix created during post-production for test screenings and rough cuts before final sound mixing
Tentpole
A major film production expected to generate significant revenue that financially supports a studio's entire slate of releases.
Territorial Rights
Geographic boundaries defining where music rights apply and who controls them.
Territory Carve Out
Exclusion of specific geographic markets from broader distribution deals to preserve separate licensing opportunities.
Territory Rights
Geographic licensing divisions defining where content can be distributed and monetized by specific entities.
The Hollywood Reporter
Major entertainment industry trade publication covering film, television, and entertainment business since 1930.
Theatrical Release
The distribution of a film through movie theaters.
Theatrical Window
Period of exclusive theatrical exhibition before other release formats.
Tidal
Artist-owned high-fidelity streaming service known for lossless audio quality and exclusive content.
Tour Accounting
Financial management and reporting for live performance touring activities.
Tour Advance Recoupment
Process of repaying upfront tour funding through live performance revenues before artists receive additional tour profits.
Tour Rider
Contract addendum specifying technical, hospitality, and security requirements for live performances.
Tour Routing
Strategic planning of tour dates and locations to maximize revenue while minimizing travel costs and logistical complications across multiple markets.
Tour Settlement
Post-show accounting reconciling actual expenses against guaranteed fees.
Tour Support
Financial assistance provided by record labels to offset touring losses during artist development, typically recoupable against future royalty earnings.
Track Lay
Process of organizing and preparing all audio elements including dialogue, music, and sound effects for final mixing
Tracking Board
Industry database and community platform that monitors spec scripts, projects in development, and industry transactions.
Trailer House
Specialized post-production company that creates movie trailers, TV spots, and other promotional video content for film marketing campaigns
Trailer Music
Music composed specifically for use in film and game promotional trailers.
Treatment
A narrative document that tells a film's story in prose form, used to pitch projects before a full screenplay is written.
Turnaround
When a project is released by one studio, allowing it to be shopped to others.
Turnaround Deal
Agreement allowing a project to move from one studio to another, with the new studio reimbursing development costs to the original studio
U
Union Scale
Minimum wage rates established by entertainment unions for different job classifications and working conditions.
Universal Music Group
The world's largest music company, home to labels including Interscope, Republic, Capitol, Def Jam, and Island Records.
Universal Pictures
NBCUniversal's film division known for Fast & Furious, Jurassic World, Illumination animation, and horror through Blumhouse.
User-Generated Content
In music context, fan-created videos on platforms like TikTok and Instagram that use licensed music, generating royalties through new licensing frameworks.
V
VFX (Visual Effects)
Digital imagery created or manipulated outside live-action shooting.
Venice Film Festival
Prestigious film festival launching awards contenders and international cinema on the Venice Lido.
Vevo
Music video hosting platform powering official artist channels on YouTube and connected TV.
Virtual Concert
Live performances delivered to remote audiences through digital platforms.
Virtual Concert Platform
Technology platforms that enable artists to perform live for remote audiences through streaming, VR, or interactive digital environments.
Virtual Production
Real-time visual effects integration during filming using LED volumes and game engines.
Volume Production
Advanced filmmaking technique using LED walls and real-time rendering to create virtual environments during principal photography.
W
Walt Disney Studios
The dominant film studio owning Disney, Pixar, Marvel Studios, Lucasfilm, and 20th Century Studios.
Warner Bros.
Historic major studio known for DC Comics films, Harry Potter, and the largest television production operation in Hollywood.
Warner Music Group
Major record label including Atlantic Records, Warner Records, Elektra Records, and Rhino Entertainment.
Waterfall (Film)
The priority order in which film revenues are distributed to participants and investors.
Windowing Strategy
The deliberate sequencing of release platforms (theatrical, streaming, VOD) to maximize revenue across all distribution channels.
Work for Hire
Agreement where the hiring party owns copyright to created work.
Workflow Management
Systematic coordination of post-production processes, assets, and timelines across multiple vendors and creative teams.
World Premiere
First public screening of a film, often at a prestigious festival.
Worldwide Gross
The combined total box office revenue from all theatrical markets globally, including both domestic and international territories.
Wrap
The completion of filming for a day, location, actor, or the entire production.
Y
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