How to Sell Stock Music in 2022

If you have some musical talent, you may be able to use it make passive income. Using your musical abilities to make and sell stock music can be a worthwhile endeavor that can make you a decent income.

What is stock music?

In the media industry, stock music refers to pre-made tracks that can be licensed for use in films, advertisements, video games, and more. These tracks are often used as background music or sound effects in production projects.

Selling your stock music means allowing others to license it for their own use, typically paying a one-time fee.

The specifics of stock music

licensing can vary, but as the creator, you retain the rights to your work and continue to earn income each time it is licensed.

So, how do you get started in selling stock music? One of the best options is to sign up with a reputable stock music website. These sites act as a platform for creators to sell their work and for buyers to easily access and license tracks.

Some of the top stock music sites include Pond5, AudioJungle, and Getty Images Music. Sellers can create a profile and upload their tracks for potential buyers to browse and license. It’s important to carefully read the terms and conditions of each site, as they may have specific requirements.

Is stock music the same as royalty-free music?

No, stock music and royalty-free music are not the same thing. Royalty-free music refers to music that can be used without the need to pay ongoing royalties, while stock music allows for a one-time licensing fee but may still require payment of ongoing royalties. It’s important to understand the differences when choosing how to sell your music.

Selling stock music can be a great way to make passive income and share your musical talents with the world. Properly utilizing a reputable stock music website can help you reach potential buyers and earn more income from your work.

Stock Music Sites: Where to Sell Stock Music in 2022

If you have some musical talent, selling stock music can be a great way to make passive income. But where exactly do you go to sell your tracks? Here are some of the top stock music sites for 2021:

1. Pond5

2. AudioJungle

3. Getty Images Music

4. Music Vine

5. Shutterstock Music

Each of these sites has its own terms and conditions for selling your music, so be sure to read through them carefully before signing up.

Exclusive vs. non-exclusive music libraries

When selling stock music, it’s important to understand the difference between exclusive and non-exclusive music libraries. Exclusive libraries only accept tracks that are not for sale on another music library. However, in exchange, exclusive libraries often provide higher royalties. Non-exclusive libraries allow you to sell your tracks across multiple music libraries, but typically offer lower royalties. Deciding whether to go exclusive or non-exclusive is a personal choice, but it’s important to consider the potential impact on sales and royalties.

So What’s the Best Site to License Music Online?

There is no definitive answer to this question as it ultimately depends on individual preferences and goals. Some top stock music sites include Pond5, AudioJungle, Getty Images Music, Music Vine, and Shutterstock Music. Each of these sites has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to do some research and determine which platform best aligns with your needs and objectives. Additionally, some artists choose to sell exclusively through a single platform, while others prefer to have their tracks available on multiple sites. Ultimately, the best site for you will be the one that allows you to successfully reach potential buyers and earn income from your music.

Overview of Music Licensing and Copyright Law

Before selling stock music, it’s important to understand the legal aspects of music licensing and copyright law. Copyright protects original works, including musical compositions and recordings, giving their creators the exclusive right to reproduce and distribute the work. Licensing is the process by which a copyright owner grants permission for use of their work, often in exchange for payment or royalties.

When selling stock music, it’s important to ensure that all necessary licenses have been obtained and that any copyrighted material used in the composition or recording has been properly credited and attributed. Additionally, artists should consider registering their own works with the appropriate copyright office to protect against unauthorized use and infringement.

What Types of Songs Sell?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question as different buyers may be seeking various types of music for their projects. However, some popular genres in the stock music industry include instrumental background music, cinematic orchestral tracks, and upbeat pop tunes. It’s also important to keep up with current trends and consider what type of music may be in high demand at the moment.

How to Make Your Songs More Viable for Licensing

Some tips for making your songs more viable for licensing include:

– creating high quality recordings

– staying up to date on current music trends

– offering a variety of genres and styles

– properly attributing any copyrighted material used in the composition or recording

– ensuring all necessary licenses have been obtained

– utilizing keywords and a clear title for your tracks to make them easily discoverable by potential buyers

Start selling in 4 easy steps

Here are four steps to help you get started selling stock music:

1. Choose a stock music platform and create an account.

2. Upload your tracks, making sure to properly attribute any copyrighted material used in the composition or recording and ensure all necessary licenses have been obtained.

3. Utilize keywords and a clear title for your tracks to make them easily discoverable by potential buyers.

4. Start promoting your music and earning passive income through licensing fees.

Pro Tip: Music Licensing is a Numbers Game

It’s important to remember that music licensing is a numbers game. The more tracks you have available, the greater chance you have of being discovered by potential buyers. Additionally, offering a variety of genres and styles can increase the likelihood of your tracks being used in various projects.

Pro Tip 2: Don’t Give Up on Your Tracks

Don’t give up on your tracks if they don’t seem to be selling at first. It may take time for them to gain traction and attract attention from potential buyers. Continuously promote your music and consider updating your tracks with any new techniques or technology that become available. Happy selling!

Pro Tip 3: Consider Broadening Your Reach by Contacting Production Music Libraries

In addition to selling your tracks through stock music platforms, consider broadening your reach by contacting production music libraries and pitching your tracks for inclusion in their catalogs. Happy selling!

Pro Tip 4: Stay Up to Date on Music Industry Trends

It’s important to stay up to date on music industry trends in order to make your tracks more viable for licensing. Consider taking online courses or attending workshops and conferences to continuously learn and improve your skills as a musician. Happy selling!

Pro Tip 5: Consider Offering Custom Music Services

In addition to selling your tracks through stock music platforms, consider offering custom music services to potential buyers. This may involve creating original compositions or making edits and adjustments to existing tracks. Happy selling!

Pro Tip 6: Remember to Stay Organized and Keep Track of Your Royalties

As you start earning passive income through licensing fees, remember to stay organized and keep track of your royalties. This will ensure you are properly compensated for the use of your music.

Pro Tip 7: Remember to Protect Your Intellectual Property

In addition to staying on top of copyright laws and obtaining necessary licenses, it’s important to protect your intellectual property by registering your tracks with the proper performing rights organizations and copyright offices.

Conclusion

Making passive income through selling stock music can be a lucrative and enjoyable venture, but it’s important to stay informed on industry trends and protect your intellectual property.

Now that you have all the tips and information, it’s time to start selling your stock music and earning passive income. Happy selling!

Note: This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or financial advice. It is always best to consult a lawyer or financial advisor for specific questions about music licensing and earning passive income. Happy selling!