What is a needle drop?

A needle drop is a term commonly used in film and television production to describe the exact moment when a song or piece of music begins playing in a scene. It refers to the precise placement of the needle onto the record or the start of the digital audio file at the specific point in the scene where the music is meant to start.

Needle drops are often used to heighten the emotional impact of a scene, set the tone or mood, or establish a particular time period or cultural reference. They can be a powerful tool for enhancing the storytelling and overall viewing experience for the audience.

In the past, needle drops were done manually with physical records and turntables, but with the advent of digital technology, it has become much easier to synchronize music with visual media. Music supervisors or editors are often responsible for selecting and placing the appropriate music for needle drops in film and television projects.