What is a needle drop?

A needle drop, in the context of audio and video production, refers to the use of a pre-existing, commercially released song in a project. This can include films, television shows, commercials, video games, or online videos.

Obtaining the rights to use a song requires clearing two separate copyrights:

• <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Synchronization%20License">Synchronization License</a>: This license is obtained from the music publisher(s) who control the composition and lyrics of the song. It grants permission to synchronize the song with visual media.
• <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Master%20Use%20License">Master Use License</a>: This license is obtained from the record label or owner of the sound recording (the "master" recording). It grants permission to use the specific recording of the song.

The cost of these licenses can vary widely, depending on factors such as the popularity of the song, the length of its use, the scope of distribution (e.g., local, national, worldwide), and the prominence of its use in the project. Popular and well-known songs can be very expensive, sometimes costing tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars.

"Needle drop" can also sometimes be used more informally to refer to simply playing a record (dropping the needle onto the vinyl). However, in the industry context, it almost always refers to the licensed use of pre-existing music. Using a song without proper licensing is <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Copyright%20Infringement">Copyright Infringement</a> and can result in significant legal penalties. Therefore, securing both the synchronization and master use licenses is crucial.