Licensing & royalties
Sync License
A synchronisation ("sync") licence is permission to pair a musical composition with visual media such as a film, advert, game or online video.
In practice
Sync is granted by whoever controls the composition — usually the publisher. Because you also reproduce a specific recording, a master use licence from the recording owner is normally required too. Owning the track outright removes both negotiations, which is why brands with recurring video output increasingly buy their music instead of clearing it each time.
Real questions
Do I need a sync licence for social media?
Yes, for commercial content. Platform music libraries only cover personal, non-commercial posts.
What is the difference between sync and master use?
Sync clears the song, master use clears the specific recording of it. Both are needed unless one party controls everything.
How long does a sync licence last?
As long as the term says — often one to three years per campaign and territory, with renewals priced separately.
Buying the MP3 is not a sync licence
Purchasing or downloading a file gives you a copy, not the right to attach it to images. Sync must be granted explicitly.
Related terms
Own the track instead of renting it
Sonify Music sells exclusive buyouts of catalogue tracks: one payment, full ownership, the track removed from sale and a named certificate of ownership.