SyncRiffs – Details, episodes & analysis

EP. 54: AI & Sync Licensing Secrets: How to Get Your Music on TV & Film 

 First Step For Sync? Get Your Music Meta-Data Done Right! - Grab your FREE guide on how to do this here: https://mailchi.mp/839e030188ce/9mc45541ff  

 🎧 Sign up for our Sync Like A Pro Academy:  

 https://charles-levan-s-school.teachable.com/p/sync-like-a-pro-academy-pre-recorded-1 

 CONTACT US:  

📨 Email: bluebuddha909@gmail.com  

 🔵 Blue Buddha Website: https://bluebuddhaentertainment.com/  

 📸 Instagram: @‌bluebuddhaent @‌syncriffs  

 Want to get your music placed in TV shows, films, ads, and streaming platforms—even as AI shakes up the industry? 

 In this episode of SyncRiffs, host Charles Levan talks with sync pros Marcus Mannersen and Nathan Foreman about how to break into music licensing, use AI as a tool (without losing your creative edge), and network your way to placements. 

 You’ll learn: 

 How AI is transforming music production & sync licensing 

 The exact steps to get your music placed in TV, films, and commercials 

 Networking tips to connect with music supervisors and sync agents 

 How to balance life, family, and a creative career 

 The biggest mistakes to avoid as an indie musician 

 If you’re a songwriter, producer, or indie artist looking to earn money and exposure through sync, this episode gives you insider tips and proven strategies to get started—and get paid. 

 Nathan Foreman, is a music producer for artists, television, commercials, and film. Originally from Woodbridge, Virginia, this Virginia native graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Recording Arts from Full Sail University in 2014. Some of his most notable music placements include Fortnite, Real Housewives of Potomac NBA, League of Legends, Rhythm + Flow, J.I. The Prince (a finalist on Rap Game), and many more. After creating an organic and driven community, he decided to start his own sync agency in 2023 called Supr Selectiv. Supr Selectiv is a sync agency that celebrates diversity and authenticity in TV, film, and Ads. We’ve built a home for distinctive, artist-driven music, uniting creative minds from around the world. 

 Marcus Manderson (@dafingaz) is a versatile composer, educator, and creative networker based in Northern Virginia, specializing in trailer music, sync licensing, and music education. Known for his genre-blending sound and rapid creative process, Marcus has composed for tours, Disney attractions, Netflix trailers, and major networks. A passionate speaker and educator, he champions diversity in music and inspires the next generation through workshops and panels at NAMM, SXSW, and beyond. 

 Chapters  

 00:00 Introduction to the State of the Music Industry 

02:10 Navigating AI in Music Creation 

04:50 The Impact of AI on Copyright and Ownership 

07:31 Personal Experiences in Sync Licensing 

10:14 The Role of Sample Packs in Music Production 

13:07 Building a Community in the Music Industry 

15:50 Balancing Creativity and Administration 

18:27 Reflections on the Evolution of Music Distribution 

22:29 Balancing Work and Music Production 

24:23 Navigating Opportunities in Sync Licensing 

26:00 Understanding Music Structure for Sync 

34:31 Advice for Aspiring Sync Music Creators 

 👉 Like, subscribe, and drop a comment with your favorite takeaway!  

Support the show

EP:53 - Film Music in Flux: Royalties, AI & the Streaming Shakeup 

 First Step For Sync? Get Your Music Meta-Data Done Right! - Grab your FREE guide on how to do this here: https://mailchi.mp/839e030188ce/9mc45541ff  

 🎧 Sign up for our Sync Like A Pro Academy:  

 https://charles-levan-s-school.teachable.com/p/sync-like-a-pro-academy-pre-recorded-1  

 🔊 Join, create, and connect with our indie music community here:  

 https://www.patreon.com/BlueBuddhaEntertainmentSyncCohorts  

 CONTACT US:  

 📨 Email: bluebuddha909@gmail.com  

 🔵 Blue Buddha Website: https://bluebuddhaentertainment.com/   

📸 Instagram: @‌bluebuddhaent @‌syncriffs  

 Is streaming saving film—or sabotaging musicians? 

 In this eye-opening episode of Sync Riffs, host Charles Levan sits down with composer, producer, and UCLA film scoring professor Brian Ralston for a candid conversation about the new realities of the entertainment industry. From shrinking royalty checks to the rise of AI, they unpack how the post-COVID landscape, globalized production, and tech innovation are changing everything for composers, filmmakers, and music professionals. 

🎵 Brian pulls back the curtain on: 

 The real math behind streaming residuals 

 How AI is reshaping creativity—and the copyright chaos it's leaving behind 

 Why education + entrepreneurship are now essential for success in sync & scoring 

 What aspiring composers need to know about work-for-hire, licensing, and protecting their work 

 Whether you're a film buff, sync artist, or just trying to understand the business behind the music, this conversation is packed with insights, stories, and takeaways that could reshape your career. 

 🎧 Hit play, subscribe, and don’t forget to drop your thoughts in the comments! 

 Chapters  

 00:00 Introduction and Current State of the Industry 

02:39 Streaming Models and Their Impact on Residuals 

05:36 The Shift from Traditional to Streaming Revenue 

08:32 The Evolution of Film Production and Distribution 

11:12 Challenges in Hollywood: Strikes and Market Changes 

13:58 The Rise of Micro-Budget Films and Global Production 

16:46 The Role of Technology in Film Production 

19:44 Tax Incentives and the Globalization of Hollywood 

22:31 The Future of Movie Theaters and Audience Engagement 

25:16 AI in Film and Copyright Issues 

36:21 Navigating Copyright in the Age of AI 

39:44 The Limitations of AI in Creative Expression 

43:14 The Business of Film Music Education 

55:43 Understanding Work for Hire Agreements in Film Music 

 👉 Like, subscribe, and drop a comment with your favorite takeaway!  

 #SyncRiffs #FilmMusic #MusicRoyalties #StreamingImpact #AIMusic #BrianRalston #MusicForFilm #SyncRiffs #MusicIndustryTips #CopyrightMatters #ComposersLife #HollywoodChanges #MusicInTheAgeOfAI 

 🎙️ SyncRiffs is a weekly podcast where we discuss sync placements in multimedia (TV/Film/Advertising, etc.), the music industry, pop culture, and everything in between, including exclusive interviews with musical artists, composers, agents, and music supervisors. Subscribe to the channel for future episodes! 

Support the show

🎵 First Step For Sync? Get Your Music Meta-Data Done Right! - Grab your FREE guide on how to do this here: https://mailchi.mp/839e030188ce/9mc45...

🎧 Sign up for our Sync Like A Pro Academy:
https://bluebuddhaentertainment.com/s...

🔊 Join, create, and connect with our indie music community here:
  / bluebuddhaentertainmentsynccohorts 

ABOUT THIS EPISODE:

Charles Levan interviews music supervisor Katy McIlvaine to discuss her journey into music supervision and the creative process behind selecting music for film. They dive into the complexities of music clearance, especially when it comes to older songs, and the importance of authenticity in storytelling.

Katy shares her passion for advocating for independent artists, particularly BIPOC and AAPI creators, and emphasizes how essential it is to support underrepresented voices in the music industry. She also provides insight into the challenges independent artists face in today’s competitive landscape. Katy highlights the importance of spotting sessions for finding the perfect music for each scene, revealing how the final soundtrack often evolves from the initial script. She talks about her current projects, including Christmas films, and offers practical advice for aspiring music supervisors. The conversation also touches on how Katy manages the influx of music pitches, her love for the detective work behind music supervision, and the role of organization in handling the clearance process.

Podcast produced by Blue Buddha Entertainment, LLC
This content is for educational purposes. We encourage others to conduct proper research, and if needed, consult an attorney for any legal advice regarding music licensing. (c) (p) 2024

Support the show

Ep.42: Behind the Sync: LA Music Supervisors Share Their Journeys, Challenges, & AI Insights

Charles sits down with three top LA music supervisors—Lava Hong, Deric Berberabe, and Allyson Aranez—for an inside look at breaking into the world of music supervision. Discover their inspiring career journeys, the power of mentorship, and how they tackle the challenges of licensing music for TV, film, and more. Get insights on the future of AI in music supervision, learn about key networking tips within the AAPI community, and hear expert advice for anyone looking to thrive in the industry. Whether you're an aspiring music supervisor or just curious about the sync world, this episode is packed with valuable tips and real-world wisdom 

🎵 First Step For Sync? Get Your Music Meta-Data Done Right! - Grab your FREE guide on how to do this here: https://mailchi.mp/839e030188ce/9mc45541ff 

🎧 Sign up for our Sync Like A Pro Academy:  

https://bluebuddhaentertainment.com/sync-like-a-pro%3A-academy 

🔊 Join, create and connect with our indie music community here:  

https://www.patreon.com/BlueBuddhaEntertainmentSyncCohorts 

------------------------------------------ 

CONTACT US: 

 📨 Email: bluebuddha909@gmail.com 

🔵 Blue Buddha Website: https://bluebuddhaentertainment.com/ 

📸 Instagram: @‌bluebuddhaent @‌syncriffs 

🎙️ SyncRiffs is a weekly podcast where we discuss sync placements in multimedia (TV/Film/Advertising, etc.), the music industry, pop culture and everything in between including exclusive interviews with musical artists, composers, agents, and music supervisors where we riff about syncs and the state of the music industry. Subscribe to the channel for future episodes. 

Music: "Flying Tigers" from Magic Tiger, 

Podcast produced by Blue Buddha Entertainment, LLC

This content is for educational purposes. We encourage others to conduct proper research, and if needed, consult an attorney for any legal advice regarding music licensing. (c) (p) 2024

 #musiclicensing #musicindustry #synceducation #syncagent #indieartists 

Support the show

S2: E11 Linda Ferrando on Sync Trends, Industry Evolution, and Indie Artist Tips 

🎵 First Step For Sync? Get Your Music Meta-Data Done Right! - Grab your FREE guide on how to do this here: https://mailchi.mp/839e030188ce/9mc45541ff 

 🎧 Sign up for our Sync Like A Pro Academy:  

https://bluebuddhaentertainment.com/sync-like-a-pro%3A-academy 

🔊 Join, create and connect with our indie music community here:  

https://www.patreon.com/BlueBuddhaEntertainmentSyncCohorts 

------------------------------------------- 

CONTACT US: 

 📨 Email: bluebuddha909@gmail.com 

🔵 Blue Buddha Website: https://bluebuddhaentertainment.com/ 

📸 Instagram: @‌bluebuddhaent @‌syncriffs 

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In this episode, Linda Ferrando of LTF Entertainment Group shares the story of building Atlantic Records' sync department from the ground up in the 90s. She discusses the evolution of sync in the music industry, her work with Apple, and trends in sync related to brand identity. Linda reflects on her start in the industry, handling touring, video promotion, and sync licensing. She highlights the need for adaptability in the ever-changing music business and offers valuable advice for independent artists on building a strong fan base through social media and live performances. The episode wraps up with insights on songwriting, popularity, and teamwork in the music industry. 

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🎙️ SyncRiffs is a weekly podcast where we discuss sync placements in multimedia (TV/Film/Advertising, etc.), the music industry, pop culture and everything in between including exclusive interviews with musical artists, composers, agents, and music supervisors where we riff about syncs and the state of the music industry. Subscribe to the channel for future episodes. 

 Music: "Flying Tigers" from Magic Tiger 

Podcast produced by Blue Buddha Entertainment 

This content is for educational purposes. We encourage others to conduct proper research, and if needed, consult an attorney for any legal advice regarding music licensing. (c) (p) 2024

 #musiclicensing #musicindustry #synceducation #syncagent #indieartist 

Support the show

Hot Topics in Music: AI Music Trends, Sync Income Strategies, & Branding Tips for Indie Artists - P2 

 🎵 First Step For Sync? Get Your Music Meta-Data Done Right! - Grab your FREE guide on how to do this here: https://mailchi.mp/839e030188ce/9mc45541ff 

🎧 Sign up for our Sync Like A Pro Academy:  

https://bluebuddhaentertainment.com/sync-like-a-pro%3A-academy 

🔊 Join, create and connect with our indie music community here:  

https://www.patreon.com/BlueBuddhaEntertainmentSyncCohorts 

------------------------------------------- 

CONTACT US: 

📨 Email: bluebuddha909@gmail.com 

🔵 Blue Buddha Website: https://bluebuddhaentertainment.com/ 

📸 Instagram: @‌bluebuddhaent @‌syncriffs 

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Charles and Chase discuss various hot topics currently impacting the music industry. They touch on the importance of crafting one’s brand identity and avoiding songs that sound “too on the nose” when it comes to pitching for sync.  

They also explore the trends and current uses of A.I. generated music and the challenges it presents in terms of copyright ownership and also the opportunity for artists to thrive while making authentic music.  

They then discuss the role of publishing administration in helping indie artists collect all and any forms of streaming income generated from Syncs, Downloads, and Streaming income. They also discuss the challenges of promoting one’s music on the DSP’s and strategies for marketing songs to leverage sync placements and or editorials.  

 -------------------------------------------- 

🎙️ SyncRiffs is a weekly podcast where we discuss sync placements in multimedia (TV/Film/Advertising, etc.), the music industry, pop culture and everything in between including exclusive interviews with musical artists, composers, agents, and music supervisors where we riff about syncs and the state of the music industry. Subscribe to the channel for future episodes. 

Podcast produced by Blue Buddha Entertainment 

This content is for educational purposes. We encourage others to conduct proper research, and if needed, consult an attorney for any legal advice regarding music licensing. (c) (p) 2024

 #musiclicensing #musicindustry #synceducation #syncagent #indieartists 

Support the show

S2:E9 
Hot Topics in Music: AI Music Trends, Sync Income Strategies, & Branding Tips for Indie Artists (part 1) 

🎵 First Step For Sync? Get Your Music Meta-Data Done Right! - Grab your FREE guide on how to do this here: https://mailchi.mp/839e030188ce/9mc45541ff 

🎧 Sign up for our Sync Like A Pro Academy:  

https://bluebuddhaentertainment.com/sync-like-a-pro%3A-academy 

 🔊 Join, create and connect with our indie music community here:  

https://www.patreon.com/BlueBuddhaEntertainmentSyncCohorts 

------------------------------------------- 

CONTACT US: 

 📨 Email: bluebuddha909@gmail.com 

🔵 Blue Buddha Website: https://bluebuddhaentertainment.com/ 

📸 Instagram: @‌bluebuddhaent @‌syncriffs 

 -------------------------------------------- 

Charles and Chase discuss various hot topics currently impacting the music industry. They touch on the importance of crafting one’s brand identity and avoiding songs that sound “too on the nose” when it comes to pitching for sync.  

 They also explore the trends and current uses of A.I. generated music and the challenges it presents in terms of copyright ownership and also the opportunity for artists to thrive while making authentic music.  

They then discuss the role of publishing administration in helping indie artists collect all and any forms of streaming income generated from Syncs, Downloads, and Streaming income. They also discuss the challenges of promoting one’s music on the DSP’s and strategies for marketing songs to leverage sync placements and or editorials.  

 -------------------------------------------- 

🎙️ SyncRiffs is a weekly podcast where we discuss sync placements in multimedia (TV/Film/Advertising, etc.), the music industry, pop culture and everything in between including exclusive interviews with musical artists, composers, agents, and music supervisors where we riff about syncs and the state of the music industry. Subscribe to the channel for future episodes. 

 Music: "Flying Tigers" from Magic Tiger 

Podcast produced by Blue Buddha Entertainment 

This content is for educational purposes. We encourage others to conduct proper research, and if needed, consult an attorney for any legal advice regarding music licensing. (c) (p) 2023 

#musiclicensing #musicindustry #synceducation #syncagent #indieartists 

Support the show

S2: E8 Indie Singer-Songwriter Marelle: Journey, Inspirations, and Music Insights 

🎵 First Step For Sync? Get Your Music Meta-Data Done Right! - Grab your FREE guide on how to do this here: https://mailchi.mp/839e030188ce/9mc45... 

🎧 Sign up for our Sync Like A Pro Academy:  

https://bluebuddhaentertainment.com/s... 

 🔊 Join, create and connect with our indie music community here:  

https://www.patreon.com/BlueBuddhaEnt... 

 ------------------------------------------- 

CONTACT US:  

📨 Email: bluebuddha909@gmail.com 

🔵 Blue Buddha Website: https://bluebuddhaentertainment.com/ 

📸 Instagram: @‌bluebuddhaent @‌syncriffs 

 -------------------------------------------- 

 Charles interviews singer songwriter Marelle and producer Kevin Selmer. They chat about the influences and creative process behind Marelle’s new e.p as well as her live performances and her most recent video “Alone.” They also share their most current and favorite artists that they are listening to and the importance of building your community.  

 Takeaways:  

🌟Marelle’s new EP, featuring songs influenced by artists like Mac Ayres, SZA, and Summer Walker, will be released on April 14th. 

🌟Morrell and Kevin Selmer collaborated on the production of the EP, creating a seamless and enjoyable writing process. 

🌟Morrell has performed live with a band and is planning a special release show for the EP. 

🌟Kevin Selmer recommends checking out artist Charlie Powers for his unique alternative R&B and hyperpop sound. 

🌟Building an email list is an important backup plan for connecting with fans if social media platforms were to disappear. 

 More about Marelle here: https://www.instagram.com/marellemusic/ 

More about Kevin Celmer here: https://www.instagram.com/celmermusic/ 

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 🎙️ SyncRiffs is a weekly podcast where we discuss sync placements in multimedia (TV/Film/Advertising, etc.), the music industry, pop culture and everything in between including exclusive interviews with musical artists, composers, agents, and music supervisors where we riff about syncs and the state of the music industry. Subscribe to the channel for future episodes. 

 Podcast produced by Blue Buddha Entertainment 

This content is for educational purposes. We encourage others to conduct proper research, and if needed, consult an attorney for any legal advice regarding music licensing. (c) (p) 2023 

#musiclicensing #musicindustry #synceducation #syncagent #indieartists 

Support the show

S2:E7: Producer Dom Brady & Hip Hop Artist Nor Kin4Life 

 🎵 First Step For Sync? Get Your Music Meta-Data Done Right! - Grab your FREE guide on how to do this here: https://mailchi.mp/839e030188ce/9mc45541ff 

 🎧 Sign up for our Sync Like A Pro Academy:  

https://bluebuddhaentertainment.com/sync-like-a-pro%3A-academy 

 ------------------------------------------- 

 📨 Email: bluebuddha909@gmail.com 

🔵 Blue Buddha Website: https://bluebuddhaentertainment.com/ 

📸 Instagram: @‌bluebuddhaent @‌syncriffs 

 -------------------------------------------- 

ABOUT THIS EPISODE: 

 Charles interviews Hip Hop Artist and Emcee Nor Kin4Life and producer Dom Brady and some of their recent work together. They discuss Nor’s influences in hip hop, her collaboration with Dom Brady and their latest tracks including ‘Space Rocket Remix’ and the song ‘Renegade’. They also talk about the recording and production process and the ability to collaborate remotely.  

Nor Kin4life and Dom Brady discuss the importance of the hook in a given song. They talk about how the first line of their song 'Cherry lipstick, expensive perfume’, became the hook and drew listeners in. They also discuss the influence of artists like Prince and Jay-Z on the song’s style and lyrics. 

Dom Brady shares his experience as a producer and the need to push through when inspiration might be lacking. They also touch on the evolution of hip hop and its influences on other genres. 

 Chapters  

0:00 Introductions and Background 

1:45 Nor Kin4Life’s music and early beginnings  

2:15 The Early Days of Hip Hop In Mt. Vernon New York 

2:45 Old School Hip Hop and influences  

3:38 Freestyle Ciphers  

4:30 Nor Kin4Life’s rapping style 

4:53 Nor Kin4Life’s approach to rapping and production 

5:18 Dom Brady’s Production approach  

6:14 The Space Rocket Remix: Showcasing Diversity of Hip Hop 

6:55 Dom Brady and linking up with Nor Kin4Life 

7:30 The Space Rocket cut and bringing on Nor Kin4Life 

9:30 The Challenges & Rewards of Remote Music Production 

11:35 Nor’s Multi-talented Facets as an artist 

15:23 Future Collabs and Visual Projects 

24:34 The Power of the Hook  

26:32 Drawing in Listeners with the Beat 

27:38 The influence of Prince and Jay-Z 

30:24 The Enduring Appeal of “Renegade” 

38:26 Influences on the Song’s Style + Lyrics 

39:24 Consistency and Avoiding Comparison 

41:48 The importance of Consistency 

44:28 Pushing Through and Finding Inspiration 

44:46 Embracing Failure and learning from your mistakes 

More about NorKin4Life: @nor_kin4life 

More about DomBrady: dom_brady1/ 

 -------------------------------------------- 

 🎙️ SyncRiffs is a weekly podcast where we discuss sync placements in multimedia (TV/Film/Advertising, etc.), the music industry, pop culture and everything in between including exclusive interviews with musical artists, composers, agents, and music supervisors where we riff about syncs and the state of the music industry. Subscribe to the channel for future episodes. 

Podcast produced by Blue Buddha Entertainment 

#musiclicensing #musicindustry #synceducation #syncagent #indieartists 

Support the show

S2: E6 Interview with Angela Leus, SVP of Universal Films 

 🎵 First Step For Sync? Get Your Music Meta-Data Done Right! - Grab your FREE guide on how to do this here: https://mailchi.mp/839e030188ce/9mc45541ff 

 🎧 Sign up for our Sync Like A Pro Academy:  

https://bluebuddhaentertainment.com/sync-like-a-pro%3A-academy 

 🔊 Join, create and connect with our indie music community here:  

https://www.patreon.com/BlueBuddhaEntertainmentSyncCohorts 

 ------------------------------------------- 

CONTACT US: 

 📨 Email: bluebuddha909@gmail.com 

🔵 Blue Buddha Website: https://bluebuddhaentertainment.com/ 

📸 Instagram: @‌bluebuddhaent @‌syncriffs 

 -------------------------------------------- 

ABOUT THIS EPISODE: 

Charles interviews Angela Leus, SVP from Universal Films, about the state of the industry and the importance of diversity in storytelling.  

 Angela discusses how Universal has been committed to diversity for a long time, with diverse leadership on a wide range of projects. She also talks about her role as SVP and the different aspects of her job, from working with composers & songwriters to overseeing the music in films & various franchises. Angela also shares her thoughts on the impact of artificial intelligence in the industry and offers advice for those starting out in the entertainment industry.  

--------------------------------------------  

🎙️ SyncRiffs is a weekly podcast where we discuss sync placements in multimedia (TV/Film/Advertising, etc.), the music industry, pop culture and everything in between including exclusive interviews with musical artists, composers, agents, and music supervisors where we riff about syncs and the state of the music industry. Subscribe to the channel for future episodes. 

 Music: "Flying Tigers" from Magic Tiger 

 Podcast produced by Blue Buddha Entertainment 

This content is for educational purposes. We encourage others to conduct proper research, and if needed, consult an attorney for any legal advice regarding music licensing. (c) (p) 2023 

#musiclicensing #musicindustry #synceducation #syncagent #indieartists 

Support the show