When someone asks to license a song you control, it can feel a little overwhelming if you’ve never handled it before. But it doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s a simple step-by-step to help you move forward with confidence.

1. Confirm You Have the Right to License It

First, make sure you have the authority to say “yes.”

You’ll need to know:

• Do you own (or control) the master recording?
• Do you own (or control) the publishing rights (the composition — lyrics and melody)?

If you only control the master, they’ll also need permission from whoever controls the publishing. (You can either let them handle that part or help coordinate it.)

2. Gather Information About Their Request

Before you can quote a fee or move forward, you need to understand the scope of what they’re asking for.

Ask questions like:

• Who is requesting the license?
• What are they using the song for (film, TV show, YouTube video, podcast, ad, etc.)?
• How are they using it (background music, theme song, sync to visuals, etc.)?
• How long will they need it (e.g., 1 year, in perpetuity)?
• Where will it be distributed (U.S. only, worldwide, online only, etc.)?
• What’s the budget they have in mind?

Getting clear answers early helps avoid miscommunication later.

3. Negotiate the Terms

There’s no official rate card for sync licensing — it’s all about what the opportunity is worth to you.

Things you might negotiate:

• License fee (flat fee, royalty share, or a combination)
• Scope of use (what rights you’re granting and for what media)
• Exclusivity (can you still license the song to others?)
• Credit (do they need to list your artist’s name somewhere?)

Each situation is a little different. You’re weighing what you’re giving up against what you’re getting in return.

4. Create a License Agreement

Once you agree on terms, you need it in writing.

A basic license agreement should clearly state:

• Who’s granting the rights (you) and who’s receiving them
• What rights you are granting
• How the song will be used
• For how long and in which territories
• The fee and payment terms
• Any restrictions, conditions, or credits required

If they already have an agreement drafted, that’s usually the best place to start. Review it carefully before signing.

5. Invoice and Deliver

Once the agreement is signed, send an invoice for the agreed fee.
It’s a good idea to wait for the payment (or at least the signed agreement) before delivering the final song files.

6. Keep Good Records

Make sure to save:

• A signed copy of the agreement
• Proof of payment
• Any communication related to the deal

Also, log the license internally so you don’t accidentally conflict with future licensing opportunities.

If the usage involves syncing the song with visuals (like a film, TV show, ad, or YouTube video), it’s called a sync license.

If the usage is simply putting the sound recording onto a compilation, streaming service, or other audio-only format, it’s usually a master use license.

Sometimes, a deal will involve both.

Bottom Line:
Every licensing opportunity is a business decision. Get the facts, set clear terms, protect your rights — and then, if it makes sense for you (and your artist), go for it.