14 Comments

Interesting and horrifying read - somewhat mirrors my experience as a radio plugger in the 90s, especially on the self care front. And I feel like I got out relatively unscathed. Stay strong in there, the music makers appreciate your work!

Expand full comment

Great read.

Expand full comment

I feel like there needs to be more education at film schools, for the future producer, director and show runners. They need to understand the importance of proper budgeting, getting a sup in early in the process, understanding what is reasonable song requests with the budget they have etc ( clearance procedures). Hats off to anyone who goes after this position.

Expand full comment
May 3, 2022Liked by dondrea

Yessss!

And you haven't mentioned that you are flooded with music submissions, people wanting to have a coffee with you, or friends of friends that need you to listen to their music and give them feedback, and they send ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING they have ever recorded.

Expand full comment

This! All of it! Thanks for laying out so much of what supervisors + coordinators talk about in private, but no one will share publicly in such a a well-articulated, honest way. This job is such a heartbreaker.

Expand full comment

Hey guys,

I’m 28 and extremely interested in this career path or something of the short in the music industry. I just would like to know for me, someone without a college degree what’s the best way to start, like what should I go back to school for and such other things

Expand full comment

Thank you so much for sharing your experience. I read your article because I am trying to tap into this field as a contributing musician with original music. As a member of ACTRA in Toronto for many years I was on a ton of movie/TV sets as an extra so I am well aware of what happens behind the scenes. The pace is frantic and must adhere to specific timelines especially where money is concerned. Again, thank for your insight which will be of immense help to me going forward... Sincerely, Randy Dawson. email: dawsongoldmusic@ gmail.com

Expand full comment

This was a helpful and informative read for a musician who is trying to learn more about how licensing happens.

It made me wonder if there is a way that independent musicians can enter this space without being intrusive or obnoxious, since a lot of supervisors' time is being eaten up already and it can be hard for smaller musicians to pull attention without a budget. Did you ever encounter any examples of indie musicians who were especially tactful and respectful of your time, and would you be able to share what made them stand out if so?

Expand full comment