have been landing a lot of licensed music this [WM] What advice would you have for our
year. Scores of songs actually. Tell us about readers about how to start the process of
this new aspect in your life as a professional getting their music licensed?
your approach to writing new music?
[Dave] For example, the day before we write,
musician?
the producers will send us a punch list of the
[Dave] The first thing you should do is register styles they want to record. I'll look at the list
[Dave] I'm so glad you asked me about this! with either BMI, SESAC or ASCAP. Each has a and then take time to listen to these styles by
I love writing for TV, movies and commercials! fee for joining but they will keep track of all your some of the artists that are associated with
So much fun and proving to be very rewarding future songs and earnings. Do this first. those styles.
After that, find a company you feel comfortable Once I've listened, I might come up with what
with and get involved. we call, starter bread.
really opens up a world of musical possibilities. Start writing for everything you can. A lot of This is a basic idea that will help us get started
I just finished an old school blues project. time there is no upfront money, it's ok, the right on that vibe the next day. I always record the
Totally authentic and legit. I had the opportunity placement of one of your songs will make up starter bread into my phone so I don't forget.
to rediscover and record tones from records for it. And just like anything, you've got to work Always record your ideas as soon as you get
like John Mayall and The Bluesbreakers, hard at it and find that group of people you can them! Never say, I'll remember that tomorrow...
Roy Buchanon, BB King, Elmore James and be creative with. Here is a great resource for big mistake!
others. Writing songs in the styles of these licensing: https://www.mastermusiclicensing. great players reminds me of why I wanted to com/pages/about-me
in many ways.
I've always been a bit of a musical chameleon,
so, writing music for all these different platforms
The next day, we all come in with these little
play guitar in the first place. If you want to hear
ideas and start the process. It happens so fast.
some of the diverse discs we record, check [WM] This seems to also feed your desire to We all check out feelings at the door so we can
out, Humanmusic.com create new music, not just play other people’s get to the best ideas quickly. We all feel safe
songs. Tell us about your creative process in to share our ideas and if there is a better idea
December 2019
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