How To Submit Music To Netflix: The Complete Guide

Getting your song in a Netflix show can be a career-changing moment, but the path to a sync placement is often confusing. Sending unsolicited emails into the void is a recipe for failure.

Key Takeaways

• Direct Submissions Are a Myth: Netflix does not accept music directly. Your path is through industry gatekeepers like music supervisors and sync agents.
• Quality is Non-Negotiable: Your song must be professionally mixed, mastered, and cleared of all samples before it’s even considered.
• Metadata is Your Digital Business Card: Accurate metadata (BPM, mood, keywords) is how music supervisors find your track in massive libraries.
• Sync Agents Are Your Best Bet: For independent artists, partnering with a sync licensing agent is the most effective way to get your music in front of the right people.

To even begin this journey, your track must be built on a professional foundation. This starts with high-quality instrumentals that are mixed for vocals and come with the proper commercial licenses.

As a producer, I’ve seen that artists who start with a strong sonic base have a much greater chance of creating a sync-worthy final product.

How Can You Submit Music to Netflix? (Understanding the Process)

Let me break down the most important stuff right away. I see artists make the same mistakes over and over when trying to get on Netflix. It’s frustrating to watch because these mistakes are easy to avoid if you know what’s up.

• Most artists fail because they don’t understand how Netflix actually picks music
• You can’t submit tracks directly to Netflix – you’ll need the right connections
• Your music must meet specific technical requirements
• Having the wrong licensing setup can kill your chances instantly

But don’t let this scare you off. Getting your music on Netflix isn’t impossible – you just need to know the right steps. I’m about to show you exactly how to avoid these common problems and set yourself up for success.

Netflix Music Requirements: What They’re Looking For

Netflix has a different approach to music compared to streaming platforms like Spotify or YouTube. They don’t just want good songs – they need tracks that can enhance specific moments in their shows and movies.

Here’s what Netflix looks for in music:

Quality Standards:

• Professional studio recording quality
• Clean mix with balanced frequencies
• No copyright issues or samples you don’t own
• Multiple versions (clean, instrumental, stems)

Types of Music Netflix Uses:

I recently worked with an artist who was trying to contact Netflix directly. She got nowhere. Why? Because Netflix works through a network of music supervisors and publishers who act as gatekeepers.

Copyright and Licensing: A Simple Guide

Let’s talk about music licensing in a way that actually makes sense. When Netflix wants to use your track, they need two main things:

1. Master Rights: Proof you own the recording
2. Sync Rights: Permission to use it with video

Here’s what successful licensing looks like:

Essential Paperwork You Need:

• Split sheets showing who owns what percentage (learn all about split sheets here)
• PRO registration documents
• Clear sample clearances (if you used any)
• Proof of ownership for your masters

Think of licensing like a passport for your music. Without the right paperwork, your tracks won’t cross the Netflix border. Trust me – I’ve seen great songs get rejected because the licensing wasn’t sorted.

Tips for Getting Your Licensing Right:

• Register your tracks with a PRO (BMI, ASCAP, or SESAC)
• Keep records of everyone who worked on your songs
• Get agreements in writing, even with friends
• Make sure you own everything you use in your tracks

What Are the Main Paths to Getting Your Music on Netflix?

There is no single “submit” button. Instead, your music reaches Netflix through several professional channels. Understanding these paths is the key to creating a realistic strategy.

Working with Music Libraries to Get on Netflix

Best Music Libraries with Netflix Connections

Music libraries are like middlemen between you and Netflix. They already have deals with Netflix and can get your music in front of the right people. But not all libraries are worth your time.

The best libraries for Netflix placement usually:

• Have a proven track record with Netflix shows
• Give you clear contract terms
• Pay royalties on time
• Provide detailed submission guidelines

There’s a big difference between exclusive and non-exclusive libraries. With exclusive deals, you can’t pitch your track anywhere else. Non-exclusive lets you work with multiple libraries, but might pay less.

Making Your Tracks Ready for Libraries

Before you send anything to a library, you need to prep your music properly. Libraries won’t waste time on tracks that don’t meet their standards.

Basic Requirements:

• WAV files (44.1kHz, 16-bit minimum)
• Clean metadata with correct spelling
• Instrumental versions of every track
• Proper song registration with your PRO

I always tell artists to create a solid system for organizing their music. When a library asks for something specific, you want to find it fast. Keep your files organized by:

Understanding Licensing Deals and Your Cut

Here’s where things get real – money talk. Libraries typically offer different types of deals:

Revenue Splits:

• 50/50 splits are common for non-exclusive deals
• Exclusive deals might offer 60/40 in your favor
• Some libraries take more but offer better promotion
• Watch out for hidden fees or admin charges

Make sure you understand music publishing basics before signing any deals.

Remember, Netflix pays well for music, but there are usually several people taking a cut. A music supervisor I worked with told me Netflix sync fees can range from $500 to $100,000 depending on usage and negotiation.

Smart artists know to ask these questions before signing:

• When and how do you pay royalties?
• Do you pitch actively or just add tracks to your catalog?
• What’s your success rate with Netflix placements?
• How long does the agreement last?

The music industry moves fast, and deals can come quickly. Make sure you have your business set up right so you don’t miss opportunities. When Netflix needs music, they often need it fast.

I’ve learned to keep backup copies of everything and never sign away my rights without understanding exactly what I’m giving up. Take time to read contracts – it’s boring but necessary.

Connecting with Netflix Music Supervisors

How to Find and Contact Music Supervisors

Music supervisors are the people who actually pick songs for Netflix shows. They’re super busy and get tons of emails every day, so you need to be smart about how you reach out to them.

You can find music supervisors through:

• Credits at the end of Netflix shows
• Professional networks like LinkedIn
• Music industry databases
• Industry events and conferences

But finding them is just the first step. Before you reach out, do your homework. I recommend creating a spreadsheet to track:

Take time to watch the shows they work on. You’ll learn their music style and what they look for. This makes your pitch much stronger.

Writing a Pitch That Gets Attention

Your pitch email needs to be short and sweet. Music supervisors don’t have time to read long messages.

Here’s what your pitch should include:

• A clear subject line mentioning your genre
• 2-3 sentences about your music
• Links to your best tracks (no attachments)
• Your rights/licensing status
• Professional contact info

Between music libraries and direct pitching, I’ve found that personalized emails work better. Generic mass emails usually get ignored.

Growing Your Industry Network

Building relationships in the music industry takes time, but it’s worth it. Start by:

Ways to Build Real Connections:

• Join music industry groups online
• Go to music conferences when you can
• Follow supervisors on social media
• Share and support others’ work
• Comment thoughtfully on industry posts

The key is to build relationships before you need them. Nobody likes feeling used. I try to add value first by sharing useful info or supporting others’ projects.

Quick Tips for Networking:

• Be patient – good relationships take time
• Stay professional but friendly
• Follow up without being pushy
• Keep track of who you meet
• Always say thank you

Remember that music supervisors talk to each other. If you’re professional and easy to work with, word gets around. The same goes for being difficult – nobody wants that reputation.

One strategy that works well is focusing on upcoming Netflix shows. New shows often have more opportunities for fresh music. Plus, supervisors might be more open to working with new artists when starting a project.

Partnering with Music Publishers for Netflix Placement

How Music Publishers Open Doors at Netflix

Music publishers can be your ticket into Netflix. They have strong relationships with Netflix’s team and know exactly what kinds of music they need.

The cool thing about publishers is they handle all the boring paperwork while you focus on making music. Here’s what a good publisher does:

• Pitches your songs to Netflix shows
• Handles all the licensing details
• Collects your money when your music plays
• Protects your rights if someone uses your music wrong

Think of publishers like sports agents. They know the right people and can get your music in front of them fast.

Getting Publishers to Notice Your Music

Publishers get tons of music sent to them every day. To stand out, you need the right approach.

What Makes Publishers Pay Attention:

• Music that’s ready for TV and film
• A solid track record on streaming platforms
• Professional sound quality
• Clear ownership of all your music

I’ve found that publishers really like seeing that you’re active in the music scene. It shows them you’re serious about your career.

While you’re building your portfolio, focus on growing your artist career overall.

Before you contact publishers, get these things ready:

• Your best 3-5 songs
• A short bio about you
• Links to your music online
• Details about any success you’ve had

Should You Choose a Publisher or Go Direct?

Here’s the truth – going direct rarely works unless you already have connections. Publishers might take a cut of your earnings, but they earn it by getting your music heard.

Compare your options:

When picking a publisher, ask yourself:

• Do they work with music like yours?
• Have they gotten music on Netflix before?
• Are their terms fair?
• Do they seem excited about your music?

The right publisher should feel like a partner. They should believe in your music and have a plan to get it placed. Trust your gut – if something feels off, it probably is.

Remember, no deal is better than a bad deal. Take time to find the right fit rather than rushing into an agreement you might regret later.

Collaborating with Netflix Production Companies

Finding Shows in the Making

Netflix works with lots of different production companies to make their shows. Each company needs music, and that’s where you come in.

Production companies start looking for music early in their process. The trick is finding out about new shows before they hit Netflix.

Ways to Find New Shows:

• Check entertainment news websites
• Follow production companies on social media
• Join film and TV industry groups
• Watch for casting calls (they often mean a show is starting)

Netflix is making more shows than ever. In 2023, they released around 700 original titles. Each one needed music.

Meeting the Right Production Teams

Production teams are busy making shows, so you need to be smart about how you reach them.

Best Ways to Connect:

• Go to film industry events
• Join online filmmaker groups
• Network with video editors
• Connect with show runners on LinkedIn

Building these relationships takes time. Start small and be patient. I’ve seen artists try to rush this process – it never works out well.

What Productions Need from Musicians

Production teams look for specific things in music. They want tracks that:

• Match their show’s style
• Can be edited easily
• Have no copyright issues
• Are available quickly

Every show has different music needs. Some want full songs, others need short clips or background music.

Quick Tips for Working with Productions:

• Be ready to make changes to your music
• Respond to emails fast
• Keep your files organized
• Have contracts ready to go
• Make instrumental versions of everything

Think about what makes your music special. Maybe you’re great at making emotional tracks, or perhaps your beats are perfect for action scenes. Focus on what you do best and make sure productions know about it.

Remember: productions often need music fast. When they ask for something, they usually need it right away. Being quick and professional can help you get more work.

Creating Netflix-Quality Music

Netflix’s Technical Must-Haves

Let’s talk about what makes music “Netflix-ready.” It’s not just about having a good song – the technical stuff really matters too.

Netflix wants music that sounds perfect on everything from phones to home theaters. Your tracks need to sound good everywhere.

Think about it like cooking – even if you have great ingredients, you need the right recipe to make something amazing. The same goes for your music.

Here’s what Netflix looks for in audio quality:

• Clear sound with no background noise
• Perfect mixing levels
• No distortion or clipping
• High-quality recording

Between working on various projects, I’ve learned that clean, well-mixed tracks get picked more often than louder, less polished ones.

You’ll need these basic tech specs:

• 48kHz sample rate
• 24-bit depth
• -14 LUFS loudness level
• No peaks above -1dB

If you need high-quality beats to start recording, check out my beat store. I’ve got styles that fit all kinds of Netflix shows, and they’re mixed to professional standards.

What Each Genre Needs

Different Netflix shows need different kinds of music. A romantic comedy needs very different music than a horror show.

Let me break down how to approach each main genre.

Drama Shows Need:

• Emotional melodies that aren’t too strong
• Clean, simple arrangements
• Music that can play quietly
• Tracks that build slowly

Action shows are totally different. For those, you want:

• Strong, driving beats
• High energy throughout
• Clear sections for editing
• Powerful endings

Comedy is its own thing too. These shows usually want:

• Light, upbeat feelings
• Simple, catchy melodies
• Room for dialogue
• Quick edit points

The key is matching your music to what the show needs. Watch Netflix shows in your genre and really listen to their music.

Making Your Music Sound Professional

You don’t need expensive gear to make Netflix-quality music. You just need to know what you’re doing.

Here’s what makes music sound professional:

• Clean recordings with no noise
• Well-balanced mix
• Right amount of bass
• Clear high frequencies

Most music that gets rejected isn’t bad – it just doesn’t sound professional enough. The good news? You can fix most problems with practice and attention to detail.

Pro Tips for Better Sound:

• Record in a quiet place
• Use good microphones if you’re recording vocals
• Take time with your mix
• Get feedback from other producers

Remember, Netflix shows want music they can edit easily. This means:

• Having clear sections in your songs
• Making clean intros and endings
• Keeping some parts simple
• Leaving space in the mix

When you’re working on music for Netflix, always make different versions:

• Full song with vocals
• Instrumental version
• Short clips (30 and 60 seconds)
• Stems of each part

Take your time getting things right. A rushed mix never sounds as good as one that’s done carefully.

Alternative Routes to Netflix Sync Placement

Getting Help from Sync Agencies

Sometimes the best way to get your music on Netflix is to work with people who do it every day. Sync agencies are companies that focus just on getting songs into shows and movies.

These agencies know exactly what Netflix is looking for. They work directly with the people who pick music for shows.

Think of sync agencies like talent scouts in sports. They find good music and help it get placed in the right shows.

Here’s what good sync agencies offer:

• Direct connections to Netflix shows
• Help making your music better for TV
• Fair payment terms
• Regular updates on your music

Working with a sync agency isn’t free. But if they get your music placed, it’s usually worth the cost.

The trick is finding the right agency. Some promise big things but don’t deliver. Look for agencies that:

• Have real Netflix placements
• Give clear terms
• Share success stories
• Answer your questions honestly

Breaking in Through Independent Films

Here’s something most people don’t know – lots of independent films end up on Netflix. Getting your music in these films can be your way in.

Independent filmmakers are often easier to reach than big Netflix producers. They need music too, and they might have smaller budgets.

Working with indie films helps you:

• Learn how film music works
• Build your portfolio
• Make industry connections
• Get real experience

The best places to find indie films:

• Film festivals
• Filmmaker groups online
• Local film communities
• Film school projects

Start small and build up. Every film you work with teaches you something new about how music works in video.

Many artists start with getting their music into commercials or video games.

Opportunities in Netflix Originals

Netflix is making more original shows than ever before. These shows often try new things and take more chances with music.

Netflix Originals need all kinds of music:

• Theme songs
• Background music
• Songs for specific scenes
• Music for trailers

Getting your music in Netflix Originals usually means working with:

• Production companies
• Music supervisors
• Show creators
• Music editors

Each show has its own style. Watch Netflix Originals in your genre. Pay attention to how they use music and what kind of songs they pick.

Remember that Netflix makes shows all over the world now. Your music might be perfect for a show being made in a different country.

Quick Tips for Success:

• Learn about different types of shows
• Make music that fits specific moods
• Keep up with new Netflix shows
• Be ready to move fast when opportunities come

The key is being patient but ready. Sometimes opportunities come when you least expect them. Having your music ready to go means you won’t miss out when your chance comes.

What Common Mistakes Do Artists Make When Pitching for Sync?

Music supervisors are overwhelmed with submissions. Standing out is as much about avoiding amateur mistakes as it is about having a great song.

Sending Unsolicited MP3s

Supervisors and agents almost never accept unsolicited attachments. It clogs their inbox and poses a security risk. Always use private streaming links (like SoundCloud or Disco) for your initial pitch.

Forgetting About Metadata

A great track with no metadata is invisible in a massive music library. If a supervisor can’t search for your song by mood, genre, or keywords, it might as well not exist.

Pitching Music with Un-cleared Samples

This is an instant disqualification. Using an un-cleared sample is a legal nightmare that no production company will touch. Ensure every single part of your song is 100% cleared before you pitch it.

Having an Unprofessional Online Presence

Before considering your music, a supervisor will Google you. If they find an inactive social media presence or a poorly designed website, it signals a lack of professionalism and can hurt your chances.

Tips to Increase Your Success Rate

Building a Strong Music Portfolio

Your portfolio is like your music resume. It needs to show Netflix teams that you know what you’re doing.

Quality beats quantity every time. It’s better to have five amazing songs than twenty okay ones.

Put your best foot forward by organizing your music well. Make it easy for people to find what they’re looking for.

Here’s what your portfolio should have:

• Your absolute best tracks
• Different styles you can write
• Professional recordings only
• Clear licensing information

Between each song, make sure you have good descriptions. Tell people what the song is good for and why you made it.

Having a good music manager can open doors faster.

Writing Music That Fits Netflix Shows

Netflix shows each have their own style. The better you understand these styles, the more likely you are to get your music picked.

Spend time watching different Netflix shows. Pay attention to:

• When they use music
• What kinds of songs they pick
• How long the music plays
• Where the music fits in scenes

The music that works best on Netflix is usually:

• Easy to edit into different lengths
• Not too complicated or busy
• Clear enough to hear under dialogue
• Good at setting a mood

Smart Follow-up Strategies

Following up the right way can make a big difference. Nobody likes being bothered, but they do like working with professional, organized people.

Good follow-up habits include:

• Keeping track of who you contacted
• Waiting at least two weeks before checking in
• Being polite and brief
• Having something new to say

Remember that relationships matter more than any single song. Build connections that can last your whole career.

When following up, avoid:

• Sending too many emails
• Making demands
• Acting entitled
• Being negative

Good connections take time to build. Stay patient and keep making music while you wait for responses.

Final Tips for Success:

• Keep improving your music skills
• Watch new Netflix shows regularly
• Stay up to date with music trends
• Build real relationships
• Keep your paperwork organized

Remember, getting music on Netflix isn’t just about having great songs. It’s about being professional, patient, and ready when opportunities come.

Your Next Step to Getting Sync-Ready

Getting your music on Netflix is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s about combining professional quality with a smart strategy. By focusing on building relationships and ensuring your music is perfectly prepared, you place yourself in the best possible position for when the right opportunity arrives.

The foundation of any sync-worthy song is a professional instrumental. To start creating music that meets the technical standards of platforms like Netflix, you need beats that are mixed for vocals and properly licensed for commercial use from day one.

Ready to build your catalog? Download my 5 FREE Beats for Profit – they come with the commercial licenses you need to get started. →