Multiple Non-Exclusive Libraries - One Song

[JackOberkirsch27]

Hey all! I have a quick question for you. I'm sure the answer is elsewhere, but I couldn't find it. But I'm wondering this...am I able to have the same song signed in say 3 different libraries as long as all 3 deals are non-exclusive deals or is there something against that?

Just want to get this straight. Thanks!

[cosmicdolphin]

Hey all! I have a quick question for you. I'm sure the answer is elsewhere, but I couldn't find it. But I'm wondering this...am I able to have the same song signed in say 3 different libraries as long as all 3 deals are non-exclusive deals or is there something against that?

Just want to get this straight. Thanks!

Yes you can if they are all Non _ Ex although they will each need their own unique title

i.e. Jack's Song - Song For Jack - Jack's anthem

[JackOberkirsch27]

Thank you!

[Casey H]

You can. Some non-exclusive libraries do the re-titling for you, others want you to re-title. Make sure you know how they do it, if you get contacted as you don't want multiple libraries registering or trying to register the same title.

Many composers do this very readily- place the same song in multiple non-exclusive re-title libraries with good success. However, not everyone thinks it's a good idea. It's an age old debate. The possible cons are your songs ending up with a supervisor from different sources, creating pricing and ownership concerns, devaluating our work with over-saturation, etc. Some TV shows/networks no longer accept music from non-exclusive sources. OTOH, I know if hadn't put songs in more than one library, I wouldn't have had the placements I've had so far. Right now I have a mix. Some with exclusive, others multiple non-exclusive.

Another thing to mention is if the different non-exclusive libraries pitch different markets, conflicts don't really exist. For example, one library that focuses on in-store airplay, one the RF market, one reality TV show cues.

There is no right answer. Learn as much as you can and decide what works for you.

Good luck!
Casey

[Kolstad]

You can, but it doesnt make much sense if the libraries pitch your music to the same opportunities. If they cover different territories, like the US and Asia or something, it might be a case to sign with two non-ex. In that case they have different networks, and feed different end users.

I like to sign with non-ex, because I keep my rights and have freedom to act with opportunities in real time, and if there are changes with the company (which quite often happens in the library mrkt), the music wont get stuck in a passive humdrum. But I don’t offer the same music to two similar non-ex libraries, I’d rather treat it like if it was an exclusive. It will get placed if you believe in the company you sign with.

Always do proper and thorough research before you sign.