Music Supervisor
Professional who selects and licenses music for film, TV, games, and advertising.
Definition
A music supervisor is responsible for selecting, licensing, and managing music used in visual media productions. They work with directors and producers to find songs that enhance storytelling, negotiate licensing deals, and ensure all rights are properly cleared.
Why It Matters
Sync placements in film, TV, and advertising are valuable income sources and exposure opportunities for artists. Music supervisors are gatekeepers to these placements, making them important relationships for artists, labels, and publishers.
Examples in Practice
A music supervisor selects 30 songs for a TV series season, balancing creative vision with budget constraints. They negotiate a reduced rate for an indie artist's song in exchange for exposure. They commission an original score while clearing existing songs for key scenes.