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Hey Art – thx. Well….2 days in a row. Something has changed. Not sure what, I’m using the same computers and browsers, but I used to try logging in a half dozen times or so – unsuccessfully, only to leave.
But on topic :
After talking with a couple of PMA heavyweight library owners, it’s become quite apparent that they are feeling the same sense of anxiety that we as writers have been feeling for many years. The horrible terms, combined with the fear they feel is not leaving me a good feeling about putting my music with them.
I recently did a double album release for a reputable company I have over 20 CDs with. Right before handing it in, I got a sync royalty check for $9.xx. For a QUARTER, for 200+ pieces of music with Alt versions – over 1000 versions. The owner of the library was apologetic, but facts are facts. I ended up buying back all my music on the new releases, and am keeping them under my own control. He was understanding, and said he’d do the same if it was him.
Over the last few years I tried the “artist on Spotify, etc.” thing, and with over 8 million listens, I received less than $300. Between 90 to 100 albums released.
There is just not any money left on the table anymore – unless you have a very niche lucrative angle.
I hate being the bearer of bad news, as I used to be a stalwart advocate to making money in production music, but facts is facts. My other writer buddies who do what I do/did are feeling the pain too. BMI is slipping….
Thank you @LAWriter and @Art – I suspected this but still sad to hear. $9 payout??? That’s an affront. Somebody has to be making money along that chain, but who?
I’ve been pivoting from production for music artists to sync again and it may be going from bad to worse ?
As of now I’m just building my own catalog (using SourceAudio) which leaves me with the arduous task of finding music supervisors who are willing to even listen. And I’ve seen what’s happening with AI (my day job) and things will get really bad for creatives. Another reason why I want control over my music and where it’s posted. Minimally I can do my part to not feed the algorithm with my work, even if it means I don’t make another dime.
It’s gotten to the point where I look at every expense and wonder if I’ll make it back. I’ve actually unsubscribed from numerous vendors who fill my mailbox daily with promos for sample libraries and plugins.
I see so many some of my favorite music software vendors blowing out their products. They must be feeling the same pressures we all are.
I’ve noticed that too Art. A lot of “fire sales” going on. They might be cashing in/out while they can, or they could be preparing to release new, AI equipped versions of their products. Imagine instruments, like strings, that offer realistic, emotional dynamics and vibrato based on prompts or genre.
I’ve also noticed that music software vendors are not releasing as frequently as they used to. I long for the days of booking studio time and recording an indie album and being able to sell 500 copies of the CD and making a profit!
I know things change, but it was a great time. Recording was a special thing, and the pro studios I managed to do some work in (only 2) were magical places.
Oh well, at least I have memories…..
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