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>reflect carefuly on your original talent that got you into the business in the first place. Put aside all the extra gadgets, loops and studio tricks<
This is exactly where I am now. During 2025 I sold off my elaborate studio setup and downsized. Now I’m just recording solo guitar. Stereo mics into a nice set of converters, into a simple laptop. Not even sure I will present them for licensing, they are on the streaming services for now. Very enjoyable.
Thanks for the well thought out post LAwriter. I saw the original post yesterday and didn’t respond because I figured someone else could put it better than I, and you did.
> At least that is already the case with my deal. Is that not the case for all royalty free songs?<
It is not the case for all royalty free songs. A “royalty free” song can absolutely be registered with a PRO. If your track is registered with a PRO and the licensee files a cue sheet, then you will see royalties.
Yes, a one-time fee can be considered a royalty.
>if a song is royalty free and only requires a payment once then doesnt royalty free for a client also mean no royalties for me?<
No. In a broadcast situation you could collect royalties through a PRO like BMI or ASCAP.
As to the royalty free definition question – I’ve been away from the library business for a while but if I remember correctly the term “royalty free” means the licensee can use the track in multiple productions without paying a new fee. It is not related to royalties paid to the composer.
Hey Brian, do what makes you happy and let the chips fall where they may…!
Great! A better, secure way to get the .33 cents they owe me.
/sI see ASCAP has started sorting cue sheets by newest first instead of alphabetical. Finally, an easy way to see recent uses.
Art published on this site an article I wrote about codes. It was a while back but I wouldn’t think much has changed:
>I remember the love and passion I had, as kid, when I first picked up the guitar. That has held throughout all these decades later. <
Absolutely! I started guitar when I was nine years old. Now that I don’t spend all that time in the studio (trying to earn) I’m able to go back to my first love. I’ll play guitar as a passion for as long as I can, not a means to financial ends.
>I’m on the tail end of writing anyway, cause even without AI, it’s a grind and pays less every year….<
This realization hit me mid pandemic. I found I was working hard for less and less reward. I told myself I would take a break from the studio, which basically turned into semi-retirement (I’m 61). I am satisfied though, having had the chance to create music for income for over 20 years. Good luck when you decide to move on!
“Wow, nobody knows? That’s fine – as an industry, we are known for holding our cards close to our chests.”
It seems you are saying two different things here. First is that nobody knows and second is that people do know but are unwilling to share.
My opinion is it’s the first – nobody knows. I’ll bet the three names you mentioned that have done TV themes each found their way there in different manners!
No problem. Good luck with everything, it seems you are on the right track…
