Securing Synchronization Licenses

[seanmccoy]

Hey, all, any music supervisors or others here with experience securing sync and master licenses for film? A client has tasked me with obtaining a license for a song, and I'm finding it very complex. The client does want worldwide coverage in perpetuity, but it is a low-budget film (around $1m). According to ASCAP the song has split ownership. I've been working with Lionfish Music, but their estimated quote seems exorbitant. Another company says they can clear anything, but they want money up front without giving a quote. To make things more complicated, I've heard from the widow of the artist, who says she can grant permission if we can agree on a fee. My assumption, though, is that, at best, she can only provide the Sync license and not the master use license.

Any advice for a rookie license-getter?

[dr sound]

I will be very to the point on this Sean:
Stay in your lane. However good intentions you can easily get burnt.
The only way Musicians can make money is one of two things...
touring or Musical Licensing . The amount that some charge for licensing is obscene. If you don't know the ropes or have good legal support it is just not worth it. Have your client pay a Pro and be done with it.

[seanmccoy]

Originally Posted by dr sound

I will be very to the point on this Sean:
Stay in your lane. However good intentions you can easily get burnt.
The only way Musicians can make money is one of two things...
touring or Musical Licensing . The amount that some charge for licensing is obscene. If you don't know the ropes or have good legal support it is just not worth it. Have your client pay a Pro and be done with it.

I'm liking the sound of that, as this is feeling a bit dangerous. I've worked with production music companies for sync licensing, but never a direct negotiation with publishers. Can you recommend anyone in that field?