It is always a fun and exciting journey to start adding music to an indie game, even if it is placeholder music, and start seeing and hearing the world you imagined come to life.
While finding the perfect music track to set the game's mood and tone, a game developer may use copyrighted music as temporary placeholder tracks. However, they could unintentionally overlook replacing it with original or properly licensed tracks before the game's release or use copyrighted music without proper license clearance, which could lead to copyright issues in the future.
Hence, game music licensing is a crucial aspect that developers must consider, as properly licensed music not only ensures legal compliance to use in the game but also allows developers to scale and accommodate potential developments and platforms (PC, consoles, mobile devices).
In this section, we'll explore the world of game music licensing, its various approaches, and how indie developers can safely and effectively choose the perfect music for their projects and minimize potential legal issues.
Table of Content:
Understanding the Basics of Game Music Licensing
Original Composition: The most straightforward approach
Collaborating with Music Composers
Licensing Existing Music
Understanding the Basics of Game Music Licensing
In simple terms, game music licensing is the legal process of obtaining permission (Synchronization License and Master Use License) to use copyrighted music in a video game.
When players purchase and download a game, the developers are actually re-distributing copyrighted music with the game as a medium. That is why you need permission from the copyright owner (composer, publisher, or record label)!
Synchronization License (or Sync License)
A Sync License grants the right to use copyrighted music to sync to a game, whether used as background music in maps, main menu screens, towns, or even as a music highlight for cinematic cutscenes, trailers, etc.
However, a Sync License does not automatically include a Master Use License.
Master Use License
A Master Use License grants the right to use the music's actual recording as performed by a particular artist or band. The artist usually owns the master license. However, many artists sign with a record label or have their music publisher under a music publisher, so the record label or music publisher deals with the license, respectively.
The major record labels in the music industry are Sony Music Entertainment, Universal Music Group, and Warner Music Group, each having a dedicated music publishing division to manage the rights and business aspects of music compositions.
It may sound overwhelming but let us share several approaches to adding music to a game, and we hope you find one that works the best for you as an indie game developer.
Original Composition: The most straightforward approach.
If you are musically inclined, write the original music yourself using free software like LMMS or Garage Band. If you need more VST instruments, DSK Music is an excellent resource for free VST instruments. This approach will require time and talent, but it is the most cost-effective way.
Once you write your music, you own the rights to sync it wherever and however you like, perpetually. This means you have the Master Use License and complete freedom to use the music without copyright issues.
Keep in mind that using sample libraries requires understanding their licensing agreements. Some libraries have limitations on commercial use, distribution, or attribution, while others allow unrestricted usage, even in commercial projects like video games. Check the specific terms in the license agreement of the sample library you use.
You may have heard of Eric Barone, the talented creator of Stardew Valley, who did everything from art to music composition and programming, or Junichi Masuda, who did both programming and music composition for Pokémon Red, Green, and Blue. However, not all game developers or programmers have such rare music skills. But don't worry, there's another approach to adding music to your game!
Collaborating with Music Composers
Working with a music composer is another excellent way to add music to a game. It allows developers to express their vision and ideas resulting in custom-made music that perfectly complements the game's narrative and gameplay.
Collaborating with a music composer allows you to bounce ideas and create a wonderful synergy that you might not achieve alone. It can be an exciting and rewarding process, though working out all the terms and details with the composer may take some time and effort.
After working out the terms and everyone is happy with it, it is always best to put them down in black and white, aka a contract to protect both parties' interests!
Terms we highly recommend to discuss and include:
- Scope of Work: Clearly outline the specific scope of the composer's work, such as the number of tracks, their length, and the delivery deadlines.
- Rights and Ownership: Specify the rights granted to the game developer, like where the music will be used, and whether it's exclusive or non-exclusive for the game. And define ownership of the music and if the composer can use it in their portfolio.
- Compensation and Royalties: Clearly state the agreed-upon compensation for the composer's work, whether it's a flat fee, royalties, or a combination. Include details about how royalties, if applicable, will be calculated and distributed.
- Delivery and Revisions: Establish the delivery process and number of allowed revisions for the music tracks.
- Credit and Attribution: Include how the composer will be credited in the game's credits or promotional materials.
In the indie game development world, many composers use sample libraries to create music, especially if recording live instruments is not feasible due to budget constraints. However, when using sample libraries, it's essential to carefully review the licenses to understand any ownership and usage rights restrictions.
Some sample libraries may require the music to have a minimum of 3 layers of instruments and do not allow exporting audio files with only 1 instrument, even for implementation. Staying informed about these terms ensures a smooth and compliant music composition process for your game.
When composing music using sample libraries, ownership of the music typically stays with the composer or the game developer. However, it's essential to remember that the specifics can vary depending on the contract you agree upon with your composer. Clear communication and a well-defined contract will help ensure a smooth and mutually beneficial arrangement regarding the ownership of the music.
Licensing Existing Music
Direct licensing with an artist
To discover quality music on a budget, you can explore lesser-known musicians on platforms like Spotify, SoundCloud, and Bandcamp and approach independent artists directly to discuss licensing their music for your game.
Remember that exposure is valuable to these musicians, so offering a fair deal can lead to affordable, high-quality music that enhances your game without breaking the bank. Some artists may be happy to contribute for free, while others might prefer some compensation. It's all about finding a fair and friendly arrangement that works best for both parties.
Royalty-free Licensing
Another approach to license existing music is to license royalty-free music tracks from music libraries. Music libraries offer a wide selection of pre-composed tracks, categorized by genre, mood, and theme.
When you're checking out music libraries for your game, keep in mind that each library has its own licensing and pricing. So, make sure to find one that matches your game's needs and budget. Take a look at the variety of music they offer and their licensing terms to ensure it covers exactly what you're looking for and doesn't have any restrictions that might hold you back.
Although these tracks are often more budget-friendly, you won't have exclusive rights to those tracks. Customization options can also be limited, so you might miss out on that personal touch and a truly unique audio experience in your game.
Or use a mix of royalty-free music and collaborate with a music composer to find the perfect balance!
Creative Commons / Public Domain Licensing
Creative Commons Music is a fantastic option to get free music for your projects, and all it asks for is some attribution. Remember to pay attention to the specific conditions and limitations the copyright owner sets in their Creative Commons license and if they are the actual owners.
Music in the public domain, often referred to as "copyright-free," is a treasure trove of unrestricted music that you can freely use without any limitations. While it's a fantastic opportunity, such sweet deals are rare to find. You don't need permission to sync public domain music to your game, but obtaining the Master Use License (music recording) might be tricky.
Conclusion
In conclusion, audio plays a pivotal role in indie game development, enhancing the gaming experience and fostering player engagement. Game music licensing offers various avenues for developers to access the perfect soundtrack, whether through original compositions, collaborations with composers, or licensing pre-composed music from independent artists or libraries.
No matter which approach you choose, it's essential to carefully review licensing terms to ensure they align with your game's needs and budget, while also considering Sync and Master Use licenses.
By understanding the world of game music licensing and exploring different avenues, you can find the perfect music that elevates your game and creates an immersive and unforgettable experience for your players.
WOW Sound Library
Introducing WOW Sound, a royalty-free music and sound effect library explicitly tailored for video game developers. Whether you choose a pay-per-track or a subscription plan, it's a valuable resource for indie game development, offering a wide range of options to suit your needs.
Using music libraries for game development has its perks and challenges. On the plus side, you have access to a diverse selection of pre-composed tracks, but sifting through them can take time. However, with WOW Sound's music and sound effect library focused on video games and equipped with game genre filters and loopable tracks, you can save time and focus on creating your game.
At WOW Sound, we have a genuine love for video game music and sound effects, which is why we license our tracks with game developers in mind, ensuring they meet your usage and license needs at the most affordable price. You don't need to worry about Sync License and Master Use License, as they are all included when you purchase a track or subscription plan!
Moreover, we offer the option to request custom music compositions tailored specifically to your game's requirements, giving you exclusive soundtracks that elevate your game's identity. Happy game development, and let the WOW Sound enhance your gaming experience!
Articles you might be interested in:
Video Game Audio Basics: Sample Rate and Bitrate
How to spot stolen sound effects packs?
How does WOW Library work? - Music Tutorial
Custom VS Royalty-free Music
Choosing Audio Licensing: Pay-per-Track VS Subscription Plans
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