"Synchronization royalties" refers to the money that is earned from music that has been granted a synchronization license and is used in synch with a media production. Synchronization royalties are paid by users to music publishers when songs are synchronized in the making of videos and commercials or used in television programming.

Percentages of synchronization royalties are generally retained by music publishing companies that manage income earned from royalties of songs. Music publishers obtain synchronization deals and negotiate synchronization royalties received. Synchronization royalties are split with songwriters, usually 50/50.

Contracts for all types of royalties are the means of support to all entities of the music industry. As with other contracts, songwriters should never accept oral agreements for synchronization royalties. Contracts for synchronization royalties should always be written simplistically and clearly so as to avoid misunderstanding. If you are a songwriter and do not understand a contract for receiving your share of synchronization royalties – or any other contract, for that matter – get clarification, and get it in writing. If necessary, have your synchronization royalties contracts simplified and rewritten so you understand the contract completely. Contracts in writing will assure avoidance of disputes over the terms of your synchronization royalties later on.

Written synchronization royalties contracts, whether drawn by a lawyer or written by one or both parties entering into synchronization royalties agreements, need not be notarization. Both parties, however, must retain copies of synchronization royalties agreements, as well as any other type of agreement. Simple language regarding exchange of goods and services and signatures of both parties is all that is required in synchronization royalties agreements.

However, before signing any synchronization royalties agreements, all negotiable terms must be understood clearly. The best way to understand contract, including synchronization royalties contracts, is to understand how the music industry operates and what can be expected from music industry contracts. Reading is the best method of gaining an understanding of the music business, and there is plenty of material, both in print and on the Web, that will provide an education about the entertainment business, including synchronization royalties.

Before signing any agreements for synchronization royalties, have an outside party review contracts. Understand how contracts work to your advantage and your disadvantage. Study and understand all terms and clauses.

Entertainment lawyers are recommended for providing insights into synchronization royalties contracts, and contracts drafted by lawyers are more likely enforceable in courts of law.

This article provides an overview of synchronization royalties. If you would like to submit an article about synchronization royalties or any other music-related subject, please feel free to do so here at Media Positive Radio.