Obtain a License from an Afrobeats Artist for Use in Nollywood Films With These 6 Easy Steps
Here is how to obtain a license from an Afrobeats artist for use in Nollywood films
Table of Content
- Research on the type of Afrobeats Songs you Intend to Use
- Understanding Music License For Film, Media Platforms, Games and Apps
- .Contacting Afrobeats Artists and their Representatives for a License
- Negotiating Terms of License
- Drafting and Signing Your Agreement
- Ensuring Compliance and Fulfilment of Obligations
- Conclusion
The power of licensing a well-chosen soundtrack in the dynamic world of Nollywood, where a plethora of movies and series grace our screens each month cannot be overstated. Music, especially Afrobeats, plays a pivotal role in bringing stories to life, setting the tone, and enhancing the emotional depth of scenes. However, the journey to incorporating these vibrant sounds into films involves a series of calculated steps. Not to worry, we will explain how this is done.
Research on the type of Afrobeats Songs you Intend to Use
When it comes to music licensing, one thing you need to do is your research. Your film is your canvas, and you know your content better than anyone else. Each scene is an opportunity to evoke specific emotions, and the right music can amplify this exponentially. Begin with in-depth research to find songs that resonate with your creative vision. However, considering the fast-paced nature of film production, time is often a luxury. If you are confused or find yourself at a crossroads on the best songs to fit each scene just go ahead and get a music supervisor, a good one at that. There are seasoned Music Supervisors in Nigeria that offer this service like Spring Sound Ltd. Music supervisors help streamline the process as they have a better understanding of the market. So, why not leverage on their knowledge and their network to achieve your goals? They also have the best knowledge when it comes to different right holders and their average response timeline, fees and terms these right holders do not compromise on. Their expertise not only saves time but also opens doors to a wide array of musical choices you might not have considered. They might suggest utilizing library music, which serves as a ‘one stop shop’ for all your musical requirements. It provides access to a diverse range of songs from various rights holders, eliminating the need to individually contact each one. A prime illustration is the Afro Soundtrack library.
Understanding Music License For Film, Media Platforms, Games and Apps
Now that you have employed the services of a music supervisor, let’s move on to the licensing intricacies. The type of license required hinges on how a song is utilized within the film. Whether it is a background vocal (BV/BI) where the song/instrumental is just playing in the background or a performance by a character, that is a visual vocal (VV), each scenario demands specific rights. A master use license is obtained when you require the exact recording of a pre existing song, while a sync license is required when you want to synchronize that recording with a video. Master use and synchronization (sync) licenses are the most common, permitting you to use the original recording and synchronize it with your visual content, respectively.
Contacting Afrobeats Artists and their Representatives for a License
When you have successfully determined the type of right you intend to obtain, you need to reach out to the right holders. This stage is crucial and requires tact and precision. Conduct research to find the record label the artist is under and get in touch with them by sending in a license request. Conduct research to determine the artist’s record label or management and send a detailed license request. It’s imperative to ascertain the scope of rights they hold and whether acquiring a license from them covers all necessary bases, offering a “one-stop” solution or if further negotiations with additional rights holders are required. This is a nuanced process that can benefit greatly from a music supervisor’s involvement, leveraging their knowledge and contacts to streamline negotiations. You may notice your music supervisor attempting to give you a nudge in a certain direction to avoid dealing with too many right holders for just one song.
Negotiating Terms of License
Negotiating the terms of a licence can be intricate, balancing the needs of your production with the expectations of rights holders. Transparency regarding your budget and intended use of the music is key. It is important that you communicate all your terms to the right holders or their representatives. The above tweet from the infamous filmmaker and director, Niyi Akinmolayan is one of the reasons why a music supervisor is considered invaluable here because you get to utilize their market insight to secure favourable terms that align with your project’s scope and financial constraints.
Drafting and Signing Your Agreement
Whether you opt to draft the licensing agreement in-house or entrust this task to your music supervisor, clarity and thoroughness are non-negotiable. Ensure that all agreed-upon terms, including usage, duration, fees, and the rights of all parties, are explicitly stated to prevent any future disputes.
Ensuring Compliance and Fulfilment of Obligations
Ensure to fulfil all obligations and negotiated terms as stated in the agreement. Should any aspect of the project change that affects the use of the licensed music, communicate these changes promptly to the rights holders to maintain transparency and respect for their work.
Conclusion
Incorporating Afrobeats into Nollywood films not only enriches the storytelling experience but also connects audiences more deeply with the narrative. While the process of obtaining the necessary licences and rights may seem daunting, approaching it systematically can simplify these complexities. By conducting thorough research, understanding licensing requirements, effectively negotiating terms, and fostering clear communication, filmmakers can ensure their projects resonate on a deeper level. Remember, the journey to integrating the perfect soundtrack is never one you have to undertake alone. Seek guidance if you are stuck, build a team of people reach out to a team who know their onions as ours at Afro Soundtrack via licensing@afrosoundtrack.com for all your music needs, and watch your production take off hitch free!
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