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How Sync Licensing Works (A Guide for Artists)

  • Writer: AudioWave Records
    AudioWave Records
  • Dec 11, 2025
  • 2 min read

Sync licensing is one of the most powerful income streams available to modern artists, yet for many, it remains the most misunderstood. From gaming and film to TV, streaming platforms and digital media, sync has become a global gateway for independent musicians to reach millions of listeners overnight.


In this guide, AudioWave Records breaks down exactly how sync licensing works, why it matters, and how artists can access professional sync opportunities without navigating corporate barriers or expensive submission systems.



What Is Sync Licensing?


“Sync” (synchronisation) refers to pairing music with visual media.


This includes:


  • Video games

  • Films

  • TV shows

  • Trailers

  • Adverts

  • YouTube content

  • Streaming platforms

  • Brands & corporate media

  • Social media content

  • Short-form video (TikTok, Reels, Shorts)


Any time music enhances a visual experience, sync licensing is involved.


How Sync Licensing Generates Income


Sync income typically comes from two separate revenue streams:


1. Upfront Sync Fee (one-time payment)

Paid directly to the artist/rights holder for the right to use the track.


2. Backend Royalties (performance royalties)

Collected when the media is broadcast publicly.


This means artists can earn:


  • once for the placement,

  • and again every time it airs.


Who Decides Which Music Gets Synced?


Music supervisors, game studios, brands, production companies and agencies all request music through sync channels.


They look for:


  • emotion

  • energy

  • style

  • tempo

  • atmosphere

  • how well the track matches the visuals


A strong sync catalogue must include diversity, clarity, and quick access for supervisors.


The Problem: Traditional Sync Access is Broken


Artists face:


  • high paywalls

  • exclusive rights grabs

  • long contracts

  • per-track submission fees

  • monthly subscriptions

  • limited catalogues

  • hidden restrictions


Accessing sync shouldn’t be this difficult.


That’s exactly why AudioWave Records created a new model.


AWR’s Solution: Lifetime Access, Unlimited Submissions


The AWR Sync Pass removes the barriers that have historically blocked independent artists from sync opportunities.


  • Pay once (£50)

  • Upload unlimited tracks

  • Lifetime pitching

  • Keep 100% ownership

  • Non-exclusive

  • Transparent 50/50 split on successful placements


This is the first sync access model in the UK built entirely around the needs of modern creators.


What Makes a Track Sync-Friendly?


While any genre can potentially be synced, certain qualities make a track more attractive:


  • strong emotional identity

  • clear structure

  • clean mix

  • strong dynamics

  • versions without vocals

  • shorter edits

  • instrumental variations


AWR accepts all genres and works directly with supervisors to match music with briefs.


How Artists Can Join the AWR Sync Catalogue


The process is simple:


  1. Purchase the AWR Sync Pass

  2. Access the private upload portal

  3. Upload unlimited tracks

  4. AWR catalogues and pitches your music

  5. You keep all ownership and control


This is sync licensing without the industry gatekeeping.


Sync licensing is no longer reserved for major labels or corporate publishers. Independent artists can now access global synch opportunities with transparency, fairness and lifetime value.


AudioWave Records is committed to leading this change — one placement at a time.


Learn more about the AWR Sync Pass


 
 
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