A music supervisor is a professional responsible for selecting, licensing, and managing the use of music in visual media such as films, television series, advertisements, video games, and trailers. They act as the liaison between the production team and the music industry, ensuring that all music used is both creatively aligned with the project and legally cleared for use.
A music supervisor must have a strong understanding of music licensing and copyright law, as well as a deep knowledge of production workflows and deadlines. Equally important is their awareness of music trends, genres, and cultural relevance. Their role is both creative and administrative: they must enhance the emotional and narrative impact of a project through music, while also staying within the legal and budgetary framework of the production.
Real-world example: Music Supervisor in Film Production
A music supervisor may be asked to source a track that underscores a key scene in a film or television production. After identifying the right song, they negotiate the synchronization and master rights with publishers and labels. In major studio productions—such as those for Netflix—a dedicated music clearance department often handles the legal paperwork, while the supervisor focuses on creative decisions and coordination.
Real-world example: Replacing a Temp Track
It is common for directors or editors to use a temp track—a placeholder song from a major artist—during the editing process. If the budget does not allow licensing that specific track, the music supervisor is tasked with finding a suitable replacement. They create and send out briefs to sync agencies, music libraries, or boutique labels to source tracks that match the original’s tone, pacing, and emotion, but within the production’s financial limits.
Real-world example: Defining the Tone of a Series
For a TV or streaming series, such as a Netflix or Apple TV original, a music supervisor may help define the musical identity of the entire show. This involves curating a consistent tone across multiple episodes or seasons by selecting a cohesive mix of songs and score. The supervisor works closely with showrunners, directors, and editors to ensure that the music supports the narrative arc, character development, and stylistic vision of the series as a whole.
Real-world example: Advertising
In advertising, a music supervisor may be asked to choose a well-known, recognizable song to elevate the emotional or cultural impact of a campaign. However, if licensing the track exceeds the budget, the supervisor must find a suitable alternative—either a more affordable commercial track or a custom composition. They will often send briefs to sync agencies, music libraries, or independent artists to identify music that matches the tone, tempo, and feel of the original while staying within budget constraints.