TAXI TV

Why do some talented composers consistently land sync placements while others keep getting overlooked? In this episode of TAXI TV, music library owner, composer, and longtime TAXI member Chuck Henry shares the common mistakes he sees from the library side of the sync business—mistakes that can quietly cost composers valuable placements. After decades in the industry, Chuck has reviewed thousands of submissions and worked with composers at every level. Surprisingly, many of the errors that hurt placement opportunities aren't made by beginners—they're made by experienced writers who simply don't realize what's holding them back. In this episode, you'll learn: Common sync licensing mistakes that hurt placement potential What music libraries wish composers understood Why great music alone isn't always enough Submission and production issues that raise red flags How to improve your chances of getting signed and placed What successful composers do differently Chuck also shares his inspiring journey from teaching piano lessons and performing in retail stores to becoming a successful composer and the CEO of a music library. Whether you're writing production music, composing for TV and film, or building a sync catalog, this conversation could save you years of trial and error. Join us live and learn how to avoid the mistakes that can quietly kill sync opportunities before they ever reach a music supervisor, editor, or library.

I had a whole bunch of questions I didn't get to ask our Head Screener the last couple of times he joined me on TAXI TV. He's a consummate pro, and you guys seem to love his answers, so I pulled out the unasked questions from his last two appearances and got some great answers! I'm not going to hype this up, but I really think you'll learn how to use your TAXI membership more effectively if you watch this episode. I'm also sure you'll learn how the sync industry really works, rather than relying on sketchy info and opinions from people who know some stuff, but not all of it. Do yourself (and your career) a favor and invest less time than it takes to stream another mediocre movie. Craig and I will give you more accurate inside information about sync than you'd get by taking a full-semester of a college music class. How do I know this? Because they don't teach this stuff in college! Get real-world tips that can make all the difference by watching today's episode.

There's so much information, disinformation, and countless opinions on the future of music in the shadow of generative AI that it's virtually impossible to keep up with it all. I try, but long-time TAXI member, indie musician, composer, and producer Paul Croteau does a far better job than I do. Paul has what some might call an "obsession" with gathering facts before he forms his opinions, so I listen carefully to what he has to say. In other words, he's done the heavy lifting, so the rest of us don't have to! If you'd like to become far better informed about AI as it relates to the music industry, you really don't want to miss this episode! Actually, if you create music, I don't think you can afford to not watch it. Paulie is a very smart, well-informed person, and you'll be much better informed having heard what he's got to say.

It's been a while since we've done an "Ask Michael Anything" on TAXI TV, so that's exactly what we're going to do on today's show! Ask me anything about TAXI, engineering & production (from the mics and wires aspect), or the music licensing business, and I'll do my best to give straight-ahead, helpful answers. Btw, I was at a session at the Foo Fighters' private studio a few days ago and had my mind blown! I'm going to tell you all about that and show you some photos of the control room, live room, guitar amps, and especially the vintage Neve recording console Dave Grohl bought from the legendary Sound City studio when it closed its doors. Other stuff I'll be talking about... Want to know how many tracks you really need before music libraries take you seriously? I get that question all the time, and frankly, the answer will surprise you! And, I’m going to tell you today. These are the types of questions I’ll be happy to answer, and anything else you’ve got! Viewers love these episodes, and I always have fun doing them.

Hollywood Score Composer and Film Producer Brian Ralston is one of the most well-informed and articulate people I’ve met during my 50 years in the music business. He’s so clear-headed about so many aspects of the music and film industries that I did a solo interview with him at this year’s Road Rally—our annual conference. Brian didn’t disappoint! The people in the ballroom felt like they had learned something important. Things they normally don’t think about because they’re usually focused on the music much more than their career. Because he was so good, I’ve decided to do something I’ve rarely done after the Road Rally—I’ve invited Brian to reprise what we did on stage last month, but this time we’re doing it live on TAXI TV!