MUSIC

THE FOUNDER’S FAVOURITES: STORIES BEHIND THE MUSIC

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    Since day one, Audio Network has built a rich catalogue of music that covers every genre, mood, and moment - from sweeping orchestral pieces to unforgettable hits.

    To celebrate this journey, our founder Andrew Sunnucks has curated a special Founder's Favourites playlist, selecting tracks that hold unique stories and memories for him.

    Here, Andrew shares the stories behind these standout tracks - from iconic studio sessions to surprising moments of inspiration...

    Asking me to compile a list of my favourite Audio Network tracks is like asking a parent to choose between children. Most of our output over the past 25 years has been written by my friends.

    I decided, the only hope was to list tracks which have a story worth telling, and so that is what I decided to do, and these are the stories.

    Whistling Willie

    I have fond memories of recording this with the strings of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Ray Davies was a genius at vintage string writing because he’d played with all the greats from the era. He conducted one rehearsal take of this, threw the score over his shoulder and said, “move on, that’s the best you’re going to get out of this lot”. 

    Mars

    This was one of the first large orchestral tracks we did. I asked Terry and Nick to build the track in clear sections from the slow legato strings and harp through to the big finale with choir, percussion and full orchestra. It was an immediate hit when we released it and still sounds great nearly 17 years after we recorded it. 

    Sideways Like a Crab

    This track has become really quite legendary and even has its own Facebook page where editors discuss where they’ve used it – it might even have been a bit over-used at one point! I saw the whistler perform with the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain (yes, really) and booked him for the session and the track led to a series of crustacean themed titles. See Lobster Tureen!

     Book Of Secrets

    Both of the composers on this track, David O’Brien and Chris Egan are old friends of ours and both work in very different areas of composition. It was lovely to bring them together to collaborate on this and I think the results speak for themselves. 

    The Sundance Singers

    One of the very early sessions for Audio Network in about 2002. All the parts are sung by just 2 singers, Ben Parry and Joanna Forbes who were both in the Swingle Singers. The idea arose from some jingles Paul Mottram and I did for the Steve Wright in the Afternoon show on Radio 1 back in 1990. We continue to work together 35 years on. 

    Bosque Renewed

    We very occasionally re-record earlier works to bring them up to date. This track was popular, I think partly because of its quirky 5/8 metre which keeps the listener on edge, but the original version had sampled instruments – and our rule is to do everything for real, so we did! The piano part is very tricky and it was a challenging session, but it remains an intriguing track. 

     Sturm und Drang

    As I remember it, Paul wrote this partly inspired by Vivaldi’s storms sections in Four Seasons. I remember the session well because it was one of our earlier Abbey Road sessions with the RPO and the fire alarm went off and we all had to wait in the car park. Stressful when we had a lot to record. 

    The Flag

    Written by Oliver Ledbury, this was to replicate an American fanfare/remembrance scene. I remember thinking how well Oliver had interpreted and executed the brief.  

    Hidden Past

    No list of mine would be complete without a few Terry Devine-King tracks. Terry is a very old friend and we’ve worked together since 1990. He can turn his hand to a huge variety of styles and remains one of the company’s most popular composers. There’s something about this track’s melody which I think is just about perfect. 

     Lambeth Lady

    John Etheridge played guitar with Stephane Grappelli so there really is no one better to get to do a Hot Club project. We recorded this in a tiny studio in Leytonstone, East London with the amazing Chris Garrick on violin. 

    Gimme That Swing

    A few years’ ago there was a huge craze for Electro Swing and this was one of the tracks we did with Bob Bradley, Steve Dymond and singer Cissie Redgwick. I loved the style which combines vintage swing with an electro edge. 

     Lobster Tureen

    We had a phase of naming tracks after crustations! Don’t ask me why, but after the success of Sideways Like a Crab, we had Prawn in the USA, Prawn to be Wild and this one, Lobster Tureen. You have to understand that we have to come up with a lot of titles so we should be forgiven for sometimes exploring unlikely themes! Recording with Igor is always hilarious, with frequent mandatory stops for Vodka.  

     Gingerbread Shoes

    I have only ever known two people who totally understand how to do the classic Hollywood 1950s sound. Ray Davies and Andrew Cottee. We recorded this in Abbey Road and the players loved recording it because the arrangements are perfect, easy to play and all ‘fell under the fingers’, which is the ultimate compliment a player can give to an orchestrator or composer. 

    Cheeky Swing

    Dave Bishop (Bish), Bob Bradley, Adam Dennis and Chris Egan are all old friends and this project came about to showcase the talents and adaptability of all of them. Somehow the performances all sound so fresh it reminds me of the fun we had on the sessions. I am particularly proud of the way Audio Network brings people together, creates new friendships and collaborations which makes music that none of them would have done individually. 

     Speed Kills

    This is a newer recording than most on my list. The Flight have a way of creating their own electronic palettes and not relying on simple ‘out of the box’ sounds that everyone else uses. Their music always sounds different as a result and it is a good reminder not to be lazy, but to work on every sound and make your own. 

     Swing That Shoe

    I did this track with Terry before Audio Network even started. We did it in about 1998 in my and Terry’s old studio in Wardour Street, London. I think we must’ve re-recorded it for Audio Network, because I remember Chris Blackwell played the back of a chair for the drums and it doesn’t sound like that any more! Steve Sidwell is on trumpet. 

    For Our Time

    Another example of Terry’s ability to write a great tune. I had discussed with Terry the need to find new and interesting sounds to combine with piano to create memorable textures and timbres. Terry responded by using a harp, dulcimer and woodwind which he weaves into the tune. We recorded it on a boiling day at Abbey Road and the air conditioning broke down. 

     Don’t Stop

    I love the vibrancy and life in this track. Bob Bradley is brilliant at making music really vibe and his collaboration with Little Violet was a masterclass in arranging for a classic instrumental line-up and giving it a really contemporary groove. 

     Numb

    This was a really early Audio Network track and the first project I did with Bob Bradley in 2004. At that time Bob’s use of a muted trumpet with drum loops was really ground breaking. 

     Riverside Jaunt

    I included this track because it was so well used in the late 2000s and I thought there’d be lots of people who’d enjoy a bit of nostalgia. Tim Garland plays the clarinet brilliantly on it – but told us he wasn’t a clarinet player! I beg to differ. 

    Each of these tracks carries a unique story, born from exceptional collaborations and moments of creative inspiration. They embody the heart of Audio Network - music made with passion, precision, and purpose.

    And beyond their stories, they’re perfectly crafted for content - delivering authenticity, emotion, and impact to bring any brief to life.

    Explore The Founders Favourites playlist today.

    Need Music for Your Project?

    At Audio Network we create original music, of the highest quality, for broadcastersbrandscreatorsagencies and music fans everywhere. Through clear and simple licensing, we can offer you a huge variety of the best quality music across every conceivable mood and genre. Find out how we can connect you with the perfect collaborator today by clicking the button below!

    THE FOUNDER’S FAVOURITES: STORIES BEHIND THE MUSIC Read More »

    AUDIO NETWORK

    HOW AUDIO NETWORK HELPS YOU COLLECT EVERY PENNY OF YOUR MUSIC PUBLISHING REVENUE

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      If you own music rights - whether you’re a broadcaster, production company, or global brand producing original content - there’s a simple question you should be asking:

      Are you collecting all the money your music is earning?

      Many rights holders unknowingly leave significant revenue on the table. That’s because collecting global publishing income is complex - especially in an age where music is used across countless platforms, in multiple countries, and tracked by hundreds of societies and systems around the world.

      At Audio Network, we specialise in solving that problem.

      25 Years of Expertise, Millions Collected

      We’ve spent the last two and a half decades collecting publishing revenue for our own world-class catalogue of music, used in everything from global advertising campaigns to award-winning television series.

      Now, we bring that same industry-leading expertise to our clients - ensuring that if your music is out there earning, you’re getting what you’re owed.

      Why Choose Audio Network?

      We’re not a generic administrator or a rights aggregator. We're music rights specialists in audio visual content - and we’ve built one of the most advanced, efficient, and transparent revenue collection services in the world.

      Here’s what sets Audio Network apart:

      • Unrivalled accuracy
      • Global reach
      • Real human expertise
      • Complete transparency

      Unrivalled Accuracy

      We use cutting-edge technology and proprietary data-matching tools to track and identify your music usage across global platforms. If it’s been used, we’ll find it.

      Global Reach

      We collect your royalties across our vast global publishing network.

      Whether your music is playing in prime-time TV in Germany, streaming in Southeast Asia, or airing on a niche channel in Canada - we’ve got it covered.

      Real Human Expertise

      Technology only takes you so far. Our in-house team of music rights experts manually validate claims, resolve disputes, and navigate local rules and metadata inconsistencies to make sure no revenue slips through the cracks.

      Complete Transparency

      Our reporting is clear, detailed, and client-friendly. You’ll always know where your music was used, how much it earned, and when the money is coming.

      Who This Is For

      You should talk to us if:

      • You’ve commissioned bespoke music for your content
      • You’re a broadcaster that owns publishing on in-house or co-produced shows
      • You’re a brand producing original content with custom music
      • You’re unsure if your existing admin partner is collecting everything you’re owed

      In short - if you own the music, we’ll make sure it pays you back.

      How It Works

      Hear from Andy Williams | Chief Operating Officer

      Andy shares how we position the service for clients and why it fills a real industry gap.

      andy williams

      Which types of clients tend to benefit the most from Audio Network’s new admin publishing service, and why?

      Audio Network are specialists in providing a publishing administration service for audio visual content. So, any company that produces and owns audio visual content can benefit from a expert in this field to help them maximise their publishing royalties from Performing Rights Organisations (PROs), as well as royalties earned from digital platforms and sound recordings.

      They would include companies across the media and entertainment sector including film and TV studios, production companies and broadcasters, as well as Brands and businesses that rely heavily on multimedia content.

      How would you explain the value and importance of having a specialised music publishing admin service?

      The key point here is that we are Audio Visual (AV) admin publishing specialists, which requires a different set of skills and expertise from regular music publishing.  The latter is focused on the management of rights and royalties for musical compositions, however AV specialists are focused on multimedia content.

      Over and above the standard services carried out by a admin publisher such as registering works with PROs and collecting and accounting royalties, our service goes much deeper including cue sheet checking and delivery, composer contract checking and production slate and distribution analysis. Our forensic approach to these important additional services, which we have been applying to our own repertoire for the last 25 years, enables us to maximise revenues for our clients and speed up the payment of funds.

      What are the common concerns or questions you hear from clients about music publishing revenue, and how do you address them?

      I think the most common situation we come across is that clients are typically locked into long term contracts with their admin publishing provider and they are simply not aware there are any alternative suppliers in the market who specialise in managing AV content and who could be generating substantially more income for them across a whole variety of channels.

      Hear from Alec Martin | Senior Manager, Publishing Administration

      Alec gives us a behind-the-scenes look at how our team tracks global usage, works with collection societies, and ensures no revenue is left unclaimed.

      alec martin

      How does the publishing team at Audio Network track music usage across so many different platforms and territories to make sure nothing gets missed?

      There are three main methods that we use to track global music usage. Many of our clients share their sales & distribution data with us - this allows us to capture exploitation of their repertoire across our global publishing network and collect royalties from the point of airing. We combine these reports with the use of Music Recognition Technology to further pinpoint usage.

      Finally, we analyse suspense and missing cue sheet reports from collection societies around the world, to make sure that any suspended income for our clients is released. Anything missing from incoming royalty statements is picked up by our Royalty Tracking team, who communicate directly with the relevant societies to resolve the matter.

      What are the biggest challenges when working with multiple global collection societies, and how does your team overcome them?

      The biggest challenge is dealing with the sheer volume of data we receive from many sources in a wide range of formats. We use several trackers to monitor the status of incoming data while it is processed and the subsequent actions that are taken by the team.

      Most crucially, while our administration deals are global, they are serviced centrally from our London office. This avoids any cross-departmental or regional delays and allows our team to resolve any territorial issues quickly, efficiently and globally, by making use of our excellent society relationships.

      What makes Audio Network’s music publishing administration process stand out from other services in the industry?

      Audio Network’s service is tailored for music rightsholders in audio-visual media, which distinguishes it from a typical publishing administration deal that caters to commercial music. We have created a product based on 25 years of experience publishing our own repertoire, placing an emphasis on the additional needs of AV music rightsholders.

      Our team play a key role in the post-production process for many of our clients, focusing on cue sheets - these are extremely important documents that can often be neglected, leading to sub-optimal (or non-existent!) royalty collections. Audio Network can oversee the entire cue sheets process, from creation to submission, ensuring optimal royalty collection from the first exploitation.

      Combined, the features we have discussed create a boutique publishing service for AV music rightsholders and an exciting new option for their music rights.

      Start Collecting What’s Yours

      You’ve invested in great music. Now it’s time to unlock its full value.

      Talk to us today to find out how Audio Network can help you maximise your music’s publishing revenue - globally, accurately, and transparently. Get in touch.

      Need Music for Your Project?

      At Audio Network we create original music, of the highest quality, for broadcastersbrandscreatorsagencies and music fans everywhere. Through clear and simple licensing, we can offer you a huge variety of the best quality music across every conceivable mood and genre. Find out how we can connect you with the perfect collaborator today by clicking the button below!

      HOW AUDIO NETWORK HELPS YOU COLLECT EVERY PENNY OF YOUR MUSIC PUBLISHING REVENUE Read More »

      tv music

      HOW DOES THE RIGHT MUSIC PARTNER ELEVATE YOUR TV CONTENT?

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        Great television demands great music. Whether it’s a spine-tingling score for a hard-hitting drama, an atmospheric backdrop for a documentary, or the perfect hook for a new entertainment format, music has the power to elevate content, set the tone, and keep audiences coming back for more.

        As the official music partner of the Edinburgh TV Festival 2025, Audio Network is proud to stand alongside the UK’s most influential event for the television industry. With decades of experience working across drama, entertainment, factual, sport and beyond, we know what it takes to deliver music that resonates with viewers and supports the creative ambitions of producers, broadcasters and streamers around the world.

        ETV
        Photo Credit: https://www.thetvfestival.com/

        Why Brands and Businesses Should Attend the Edinburgh TV Festival

        The Edinburgh TV Festival is more than just a gathering of industry insiders - it’s a must-attend event for brands, agencies, and businesses looking to connect with the heart of television and digital content creation.

        Here’s why:

        • Unmatched Networking Opportunities
          The festival brings together commissioners, producers, streamers, creatives, advertisers, and thought leaders. It's the perfect space for brands to make meaningful connections and build long-term collaborations in the content space.

        • Stay Ahead of Trends
          From keynote speakers and behind-the-scenes panels to innovation showcases and market forecasts, attending the festival gives brands insight into where TV and media are headed - and how music, tech, and storytelling are evolving.

        • Creative Inspiration at Every Turn
          Whether you're a marketing leader, brand manager, or creative agency, the festival is a goldmine for inspiration. See first-hand how compelling music, visuals, and storytelling can elevate a brand’s message or campaign.

        • Partnership Potential
          Brands that want to align with powerful storytelling and influential content creators will find unique partnership opportunities across genres and platforms.

        Music That Makes an Impact

        Our catalogue is more than just a library - it’s a carefully curated collection of over 280,000 high-quality tracks, all cleared for global use across every platform. From sweeping orchestral scores recorded at Abbey Road Studios to cutting-edge contemporary tracks crafted by emerging artists, every piece is designed to help storytellers bring their vision to life.

        Recent projects have resulted in Audio Network music featuring in some of the most talked-about programmes on TV. From gritty crime dramas and powerful documentaries to light-hearted reality shows and primetime entertainment, our music doesn’t just fill space - it drives emotion, builds atmosphere, and defines the identity of a programme.

        Exclusive Content from World-Class Composers

        A key part of our offering is our roster of award-winning composers and producers. Working closely with the creative community, we deliver exclusive content you won’t find anywhere else. Composers like Lorne Balfe, Debbie Wiseman, and Mark Petrie bring decades of expertise, crafting original works that are bold, distinctive, and production-ready.

        This blend of established talent and fresh new voices means Audio Network can provide the perfect track for any brief, whether you’re cutting a high-budget drama, developing a documentary for a global audience, or producing fast-turnaround factual content.

        Supporting Every Stage of Production

        We know that music needs vary throughout the production process, and our team is here to help at every stage. Whether you’re pitching an idea and need the perfect track to set the mood, cutting together a sizzle reel, or delivering the final episode of a series, Audio Network gives you the tools and support you need to succeed.

        Our intuitive search platform makes finding the right track fast and simple, while our experienced music consultants are always on hand to offer tailored recommendations. And because every track is cleared for use worldwide, you can focus on your creative vision knowing the licensing has been sorted.

        A Trusted Partner for the Industry

        Being part of the Edinburgh TV Festival is about more than just showcasing our catalogue - it’s about supporting the industry and celebrating the creativity that drives television forward. The festival provides a unique opportunity for collaboration, inspiration and innovation, and we’re proud to play our part in helping producers and broadcasters create unforgettable content.

        As the official music partner, Audio Network is deeply embedded in the festival’s mission to champion storytelling and talent across every platform and genre. We're not just a music provider - we're your creative partner in making content that connects.

        So, whether you’re developing a gritty new drama, delivering a powerful factual series, shaping the next big entertainment format – or a brand looking to make an impact in the content space - Audio Network is ready to help you make it happen.

        Need Music for Your Project?

        At Audio Network we create original music, of the highest quality, for broadcastersbrandscreatorsagencies and music fans everywhere. Through clear and simple licensing, we can offer you a huge variety of the best quality music across every conceivable mood and genre. Find out how we can connect you with the perfect collaborator today by clicking the button below!

        HOW DOES THE RIGHT MUSIC PARTNER ELEVATE YOUR TV CONTENT? Read More »

        music for podcasts

        HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT THEME MUSIC FOR PODCASTS

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          The world of podcast content is ever-expanding, with new pods launching every week. How do you make yours stand out? One of the key elements is your podcast music.

          We’re here to offer the expert guide to what makes a great podcast theme; the impact of music on mood and tone; its importance in storytelling and what you need to consider when you’re choosing your podcast theme song.

          Why Theme Music Matters

          First up, you need a memorable podcast theme that’s destined to become an earworm. First impressions count and your theme music or song will help to guide your listeners and give them an instant insight into your content, hooking them in within the first few seconds.

          Whether you’re doing a deep dive into pop culture, serving up daily or weekly insights into politics and current affairs, creating the next must-listen true crime series or launching a narrative podcast or audio drama (serialized or anthology-style), your podcast theme helps to provide essential sonic branding. Your podcast’s sonic signature delivers instant brand recall and fosters listener retention – both of which are essential in an increasingly oversaturated marketplace.

          How to Choose the Right Theme Music

          What mood or tone are you trying to create with your podcast intro? Is it upbeat and lighthearted? Tension-fuelled and mysterious? Calm and contemplative? Authoritative or scholarly? You need to find music that aligns with your podcast’s personality.

          Part of your music selection process is looking at your target audience. Are they a younger demographic? Persuade them with music that taps into current trends. Targeting older listeners with classic – or classical – music could be the way to go. When you understand your listeners’ tastes, you can pick the music that will resonate with them. Listen to other podcasts that are catering to your ideal audience and pinpoint what makes their podcast theme music effective – whether it’s a genre (pop, rock, indie, country, etc) or a mood. Mellow, ambient music lends itself to more serious topics and a reflective mood, whilst bright, summery pop will make your comedy content sparkle.

          The other way of looking at it is, what do you want your target audience to feel? Whether you’re aiming for excited, inspired, relaxed or intrigued, the music genre you choose needs to reflect that.

          When it comes to how long podcast intro music should be, we’d advise keeping it short and sweet – typically anywhere between 15 to 30 seconds.

          When to Update a Podcast Theme

          Generally, keeping the same podcast intro for each episode builds familiarity and trust and helps your listeners to settle into their daily, weekly or monthly listen. However, special episodes or stand-alone interviews might benefit from a customized intro. And if your podcast is split into seasons, you could think about updating your intro slightly for each new season. This signals a fresh start, but maintains that consistent overall sound.

          Sourcing background music for podcasts and podcast jingles follows on from your theme selection. You may need music for an interview bed, for transitions, or to lead into and out of ads or sponsorship reads. These could be cut-downs of the main theme, or reworkings of it, or completely separate stings that align with the mood and tone you’ve already established. Our industry-leading Editors’ Toolkit has hundreds of beds and drones, edit gaps and effects, soundscapes and promo/teaser tracks.

          When your podcast focuses on storytelling, music can be a key element to ramp up tension or intrigue, excitement and action, wonder and awe or romance and heartbreak. Think of how the soundtracks to your favourite film and TV shows steer and move your emotional dial, and find the music that fits. When you’re painting pictures with words, the right music is even more important when it comes to making your storytelling sing. So, give careful thought to the genre, instrumentalization and tempo of your tracks.

          Licensing Music for Podcasts

          You’ve established your mood and tone, you may even have found the perfect piece of music, but do you have the rights to use it? You may think that royalty-free music is the way to go, but you run the risk of using the same tracks as a rival, and sounding generic.

          When it comes to unique, stand-out podcast music, we have a huge catalogue of high-quality, original, broadcast-grade music with simple, clear licensing. No more rights headaches or weeks spent trying to clear something (and breaking the budget on big-name tracks…)

          Our in-house experts have handpicked hundreds of tracks that are ideal for podcast themes. Kick-start your search with our dedicated Podcasts playlist, where you’ll find everything from a bouncy, hip hop R&B instrumental to trap with deep bass, or mysterious, ambient piano and pulsing synths.

          Alternatively, if you’re looking for themes or moods, check out Tension & Drama, the chilled-out ambience of the Zen Den, or transport your listeners instantly to the edge of their seats with Anticipation. And for those transitions or shifts in emotion, our Mood Changes playlist delivers exactly what you’d hope for.

          When it comes to what kind of music is good for podcasts, we’ve done the hard work for you. Sport, Current Affairs, Lifestyle, Comedy, Romance, True-Crime, Politics, History – the (play)list goes on! Plus there are different mixes and stems available for each track. If you’re still feeling stuck (or overwhelmed by the choice), then you can call on our music experts for creative support.

          So, now you know where to find the best music to license for your podcast, just browse our theme-worthy tracks, speak to our team, or register for a licence.

          Need Music for Your Project?

          At Audio Network we create original music, of the highest quality, for broadcastersbrandscreatorsagencies and music fans everywhere. Through clear and simple licensing, we can offer you a huge variety of the best quality music across every conceivable mood and genre. Find out how we can connect you with the perfect collaborator today by clicking the button below!

          HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT THEME MUSIC FOR PODCASTS Read More »

          KEEPING SOUNDTRACKS FRESH

          MUSIC FATIGUE & HOW TO KEEP SOUNDTRACKS FRESH AT SCALE

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            We’re living in a golden age of TV, with networks, streamers and production companies creating a myriad of must-watch content. Whether long-form series, one-off dramas or reality TV and unscripted formats, we’re spoiled for choice. But how do showrunners, producers and music supervisors keep their soundtracks fresh, ensuring we all keep coming back for more? Welcome to our guide to finding and licensing diverse music for high-volume TV.

            Music Fatigue

            When you’re producing dozens - or even hundreds - of episodes, no matter what genre you’re specializing in, audiences crave variety. One way to achieve that? Your music choices on the show’s soundtrack. From background music to tracks that are really driving the action, there’s always pressure to maintain the quality of the music - but, crucially, without blowing the budget.

            Do you ever feel like you have ‘music fatigue’ or 'listener fatigue'? That the tracks which used to feel fresh suddenly sound a bit… samey? The relentless ‘girlboss’ tracks soundtracking the Oppenheim Group’s high-powered agents driving luxury cars in killer outfits around LA in Selling Sunset? They’re definitely glam and bring the drama. However, with each episode featuring snippets from about 15 songs and a 10-episode season containing as many as 150 songs, together with hundreds of music cues over eight seasons to date, they’ve increasingly given rise to online parodies of their song lyrics.

            The risk is that repetitive music can diminish its emotional impact, reducing viewer engagement and making the shows feel generic. Love Island mixes things up with a blend of current hits, classic tracks and original compositions to keep things fresh, featuring a variety of music genres from pop (for upbeat and romantic scenes) and dance for the parties, to indie when the Islanders are feeling introspective or emotional. Even classical pieces have been known to feature - as well as decades-old bangers to keep everyone on their toes (‘Bye Bye Baby’ by the Bay City Rollers, anyone?)

            Everyone’s favourite BAFTA-winning behemoth The Traitors has a definite sound (which has even seen a BBC Proms event dedicated to it this year). Guardian music journalist Dorian Lynskey described it as, ‘Traitor pop… absurdly melodramatic cover versions of songs that are already plenty dramatic.’ Slow down the BPM, transpose into a minor key, pump up the orchestral elements and add mournful vocals to your favourite track and you have a guaranteed Traitors hit. It taps into the show’s atmosphere of camp grandiosity and is a key element of establishing a kind of sonic branding that fans love as much as Claudia’s fabulous kilts ‘n’ oversize knits wardrobe, and those tension-fuelled roundtable eviction sessions.

            Artists such as Damned Anthem and 2WEI (who memorably re-worked Britney’s ‘Toxic’) have seen their work become the go-to for massive movie trailers, off the back of TV soundtrack success. However, it’s key to stay ahead of the game.

            How Audio Network Can Help

            As the music department on fast-moving reality shows requires potentially hundreds of tracks for their transitions between multiple characters and story strands, there’s only so much money to spend. Hence the fact that you’re unlikely to hear Ariana, Beyoncé, Gaga or Rihanna. Plus the fast turnaround schedules for shows such as The Kardashians mean that getting licensing sign offs from major artists could cause avoidable holdups. So, for many of these shows, tracks come through licensing companies instead.

            But how do you find exactly the sound that you need, quickly? That’s where we come in. We have a wealth of search filters, covering everything from mood and genre, to instrumentation, vocals vs instrumental, etc that can speed up finding fresh tracks.

            Plus, we have hundreds of handpicked playlists to help editors and producers quickly find the right music for specific themes or show types. Tension Drama, Inspirational, Romance or Heartbreak? We have you covered, courtesy of our Playlist hub. Laugh or cry, scream or shout at the screen with our storytelling Reality TV tracks. Or choose uplifting, feel-good music for your Lifestyle show. And for those all-important transitions, you need our Mood Changes selections.

            When you want to build a musical identity across a series, whilst maintaining variety, look to our pre-built collections. Create Traitors-style drama and suspense with The Tension Code, or boost your reality content and daytime TV stories with the albums in The Home of Dramedy. Want to harness an epic Hollywood sound? Nobody does it better than the Mission: Impossible composer Lorne Balfe, who has a dedicated, hand-picked collection.

            When you’re craving variation within a specific style or sound, that’s where our composer pages make your life easier! Once you’ve found your favourite composers and artists, you can search their whole Audio Network catalogue and find hundreds of different options. With artists around the world, the choice is limitless. Still can’t find exactly what you want? You can customise many of our tracks through cut-downs, alts and stems to make the track your own, tailoring it to your project.

            Licensing with Audio Network

            Licensing tracks for productions which air across multiple territories can also be a potential headache. Luckily, when you license Audio Network’s music, it’s cleared globally, which can save a huge amount of time. You can also put regional search filters in, to further ensure that you can use your selected tracks wherever you want to.

            Shows such as The Hills fell foul of the shift from airing on MTV to streaming services (Hulu in this case). Originally, The Hills was able to acquire top-tier tunes on MTV, but the music was only licensed for a certain amount of time. No-one was thinking of a second life, where shows live on in perpetuity, so the licences were for short-term use. Hence, there’s a key moment that used to be soundtracked by Rihanna’s ‘Umbrella’ that fitted the scene exactly, which has had to be swapped for an entirely different track now that The Hills lives on Hulu, as The Hills (and Selling Sunset) creator Adam DiVello revealed to The Hollywood Reporter. Using original music has the added advantage that music supervisors can secure songs in perpetuity whilst still sticking to a limited budget.

            Luckily, all of Audio Network’s licences are in perpetuity - once you’ve got your music, you don’t have to worry about it.

            So when you need a high volume of music, our catalogue makes finding and licensing it fast and super simple. And with new releases every fortnight, you can be sure you’re staying ahead of the competition.

            Need Music for Your Project?

            At Audio Network we create original music, of the highest quality, for broadcastersbrandscreatorsagencies and music fans everywhere. Through clear and simple licensing, we can offer you a huge variety of the best quality music across every conceivable mood and genre. Find out how we can connect you with the perfect collaborator today by clicking the button below!

            MUSIC FATIGUE & HOW TO KEEP SOUNDTRACKS FRESH AT SCALE Read More »

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            THE BENEFITS OF LICENSING MUSIC WITH AUDIO NETWORK

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              Whether you’re working within advertising, film, television or branded content, anyone viewing music as merely a finishing touch or a “nice-to-have” is making a costly mistake. Indeed, when it comes to creating content that fosters emotional connections, builds brand trust and immerses audiences in its narrative, the impact of the right music simply cannot be overstated. But how do you find premium music for your production quickly, secure the correct licences for commercial use without any fuss and come out on or under budget? That’s where we can help.

              When it comes to convenience, cost and quality, Audio Network’s musical offering is a game-changer. In this blog we run through the basics of music licensing/sync licensing and explain the Audio Network benefits, including how we can help you take your project to the next level.

              What Music Licence Do I Need?

              Unless you’re intending to utilise original music that you’ve personally created – making you the rights holder –  or you’re using a free music library, you’re going to need to obtain the correct licences to use music in your production. Which licenses you need will depend on how and where you intend to use the music, but you’ll certainly need to apply to the publisher or composer for a sync licence and – assuming the artist has a contract with a record label – you’ll need to acquire a master licence too. Suffice to say, this can often prove a lengthy and complicated process.

              If you opt to use a free music library, this doesn’t mean it’s risk-free. As we explain in our blog ‘Why Licensing Music for Social Media is a Smarter Choice Than Using Free Libraries’, free music libraries often restrict monetisation or require additional licensing for commercial use. Not only that, with a free library there is no guarantee of production quality, meaning you could compromise the ultimate professionalism of your content.

              The easiest way to circumnavigate all of these issues is to use high quality, pre-cleared music, written specifically for sync. This is where Audio Network comes in.

              Is Audio Network Any Good?

              For anyone wondering, “Is Audio Network worth it?”, here are the facts. Choose Audio Network and gain access more than 280,000 premium, pre-cleared tracks, recorded in the world’s finest facilities, including Abbey Road Studios and AIR Studios. From epic orchestral music to hip hop, drama to lifestyle, background music to stings, we have every musical and production genre covered, with world-class compositions created by leading artists, composers and producers from all four corners of the globe. And with stems and cut-downs available on selected tracks, our music can flex to support your story.

              With curated collections and playlists, and super-fast AI-powered search tools, we make it easy for you to find the right music. Filter your search results by musical style, mood, instrumentation and more, plus advanced features including BPM, key and lyrics.

              Is There an Audio Network SFX Library?

              When you sign up to Audio Network’s music library, you automatically gain access to the Audio Network sound effects library, featuring award-winning FX supplied by industry-leaders Pro Sound Effects.

              There are over 200,000 effects to choose from, ranging from foley sounds to ambient whooshes, created by by Oscar®-winning artists like Mark Mangini (Dune, Mad Max: Fury Road) and Richard King (Dune: Part Two, Oppenheimer). Find out more about our partnership with Pro Sound Effects in our dedicated blog.

              How Does Licensing Work at Audio Network?

              At Audio Network, we license our tracks per project, for global use, in perpetuity. From TV to film, advertising to branded content, our licences cover any type of content, across all platforms. And if you need a licence that covers multiple projects – perhaps as part of a campaign or series – simply get in touch with our account managers. They can run you through everything you need to know about subscriptions and custom requirements.

              Find out more about licensing in our comprehensive guide to music licensing and our music licensing glossary.

              How Much Does Licensing Music Cost?

              Naturally, the cost of licensing varies from project to project, depending on usage. For a quote, get in touch with our team of licensing experts.

              Not only will they make sure you license only what you need, they can answer any questions you might have, helping you navigate the complex world of music licensing with confidence.

              Need Music for Your Project?

              At Audio Network we create original music, of the highest quality, for broadcastersbrandscreatorsagencies and music fans everywhere. Through clear and simple licensing, we can offer you a huge variety of the best quality music across every conceivable mood and genre. Find out how we can connect you with the perfect collaborator today by clicking the button below!

              THE BENEFITS OF LICENSING MUSIC WITH AUDIO NETWORK Read More »

              music in a video game

              WHY MUSIC MATTERS IN VIDEO GAME MARKETING AND HOW TO USE IT RIGHT

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                From Assassin’s Creed Shadows to Mario Kart World, DOOM: The Dark Ages to Elden Ring Nightreign, the last six months has proved the video game market is in rude health, offering up a host of viral moments from established IPs. Throw exciting new titles like Dogubomb’s Blue Prince and Compulsion Games’ South of Midnight into the mix, and 2025 is rapidly shaping up to be a vintage year for gamers.

                Whether a debut or a sequel, every successful video game has a meticulously realised marketing plan behind it, taking in trailers and promos, launch campaigns and influencer content. And, of course, at the heart of these campaigns you’ll find music. In this blog, we explain why music for games marketing matters, and how you can harness the power of music to take your product launch to the next level.

                Video Games & Branded Content

                In marketing terms, there’s a huge amount of crossover between video games and branded content. Firstly, both rely on audience-first storytelling to create an emotional connection, whether that’s via in-game lore and character intros, or through articles and podcasts. By creating these memorable moments, marketing managers help build affinity with the title/brand, fostering audience loyalty and helping to secure longevity for brands/gaming franchises.

                Secondly, both mediums understand the importance of devising a multi-platform strategy tailored to a specific audience, be that by targeting gamers of genre niches or consumers from a certain demographic. Part of this approach includes setting up influencer/creator collaborations to leverage trusted voices within the community. Speaking of which, community engagement is a non-negotiable, helping marketing teams deepen engagement via initiatives like branded challenges or beta previews.

                Music in Video Games

                • Cyberpunk 2077
                • The Last of Us 2
                • Roblox

                As we explained in a previous blog, music plays a pivotal role within video games, assisting storytelling and building emotional connections, be that via main themes or leitmotifs. The same goes for music in video games marketing, as proven by some of the most successful games in recent memory.

                Cyberpunk 2077

                Released in 2020, Cyberpunk 2077 was previewed with a gameplay reveal featuring Keanu Reeves, whose likeness was used for the character Johnny Silverhand. In the background was Billie Eilish’s 2019 electro-pop smash ‘Bad Guy’, its ominous bass riff helping create momentum and tension that accurately reflected what fans could expect from the action role-playing game.

                The Last of Us 2

                The second instalment of, what is shaping up to be, one of Sony’s most successful franchises, the cinematic trailer for The Last of Us 2 serves as the gold standard for how to use music in game trailers, eschewing the energetic electronic/rock tracks you’d usually associate with the action genre.

                Following eerie tracking shots of a forest soundtracked by hauntingly sparse atmospherics, the camera enters a ruined house littered with corpses, where protagonist Ellie is revealed in a bedroom playing guitar. Singing a bluesy folk song, the fragility of their voice contrasts powerfully with their steely resolve to enact revenge on the infected.

                Roblox

                In 2022, Samsung promoted their Galaxy Z Flip3 phone by securing Charli XCX to play a metaverse convert hosted on Roblox. The result was a cultural crossover that engaged two dedicated fan bases: pop fans and gamers.

                Using Music in Video Game Marketing

                When it comes to finding the best music for gaming content marketing, you’re faced with the choice of whether to acquire the rights to a commercial track, shell out on an original piece of music or enjoy the cost-saving benefits of library music. Luckily, the latter doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality.

                Here at Audio Network, we offer a wide selection of licensed music for game developers, from retro gaming to sports gaming and epic gaming. Boasting more than 280,000 high quality tracks created by leading artists, musicians and producers from all over the globe, our catalogue spans every genre, mood and style imaginable, from epic cinematic pieces to edgy electronic soundscapes, designed for everything from trailers to socials.

                Even better, our catalogue and also includes cut-downs and stems on selected tracks, so that you can tailor music to suit your project. And with lightning-fast, AI-powered search tools and hand-picked collections and playlists, we make it easier than ever for marketers to find the right track.

                Need epic cinematic music for game promos? You’ve got it. Looking for high‑quality music for game ads? Look no further. Plus, if you’re after a world-leading game marketing sound effects library, you can take advantage of our partnership with industry leaders Pro Sound Effects.

                If you need more help finding music for games, check out our dedicated blog.

                Need Music for Your Project?

                At Audio Network we create original music, of the highest quality, for broadcastersbrandscreatorsagencies and music fans everywhere. Through clear and simple licensing, we can offer you a huge variety of the best quality music across every conceivable mood and genre. Find out how we can connect you with the perfect collaborator today by clicking the button below!

                WHY MUSIC MATTERS IN VIDEO GAME MARKETING AND HOW TO USE IT RIGHT Read More »

                production music for ads

                PRODUCTION MUSIC FOR ADS: HOW TO FIND IT FAST (AND STAY ON BUDGET)

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                  As we’ve discussed at length in previous blogs, music is a non-negotiable component of any successful marketing campaign, helping businesses enhance storytelling, reinforce brand identity and forge deep emotional connections with their customers. And when faced with the choice between overspending on custom tracks or using production-ready music for ads, it’s a wise marketing manager that opts for the latter.

                  But where can you find high quality, pre-cleared music for ad campaigns that won’t blow your marketing budget? And what are the legalities around using music for commercials? In this blog we lay out everything you need to know about budget-friendly music for TV and social ads, and music licensing for brands.

                  Why Should I Consider Production Music for Adverts?

                  Not only is custom music expensive, it’s time-consuming to secure. And with brands under pressure to deliver high-impact ads quickly as well as cost-effectively, sourcing music can suddenly become an especially tricky task. The beauty of production music is that it’s ready and waiting to be used and comes complete with all the correct clearances for TV, digital, social and branded campaigns.

                  What Does “Production-Ready” Really Mean?

                  “Production-ready” music is music that is pre-cleared for commercial use. That means you don’t have to waste time navigating complex licensing, applying directly to the rights holder for the correct permissions to use their music commercially. Find out more about music licensing in our glossary.


                  Crucially, when we talk about “production-ready” music, we’re also talking about music that has been professionally produced. Indeed, quality is a vital consideration when it comes to choosing music to represent your brand: settle for low-quality stock music and you’re putting your professional reputation at risk. That’s why it’s critical to find a music library you can trust.

                  Not All Music Libraries Are Created Equal

                  Wondering how to find commercial music on a budget? Well, when it comes to choosing a high quality ad music library, Audio Network should be top of your list. Every single one of our 308,000+ tracks is crafted to perfection at the world’s finest studios - including Abbey Road Studios and Vienna’s Synchron Stage - by a roster of musical talent that ranges from rising stars to Academy Award winners. You’ll find every imaginable style, mood and genre of music represented in our catalogue, from hip hop to hybrid orchestral, drama to documentary.

                  It's not just music either. From foley sounds to ambient effects, we offer 200,000+ SFX from industry-leaders Pro Sound Effects, so you don’t have to source both a music library and a sound effects library for branded content.

                  With a wealth of exceptional sound effects and licensed music for advertising to choose from, we make it easy for you to navigate our catalogue with super-fast AI-powered search tools that allow you to search by keyword, audio link or scene description. Filter your results by mood, tempo, genre, instrumentation and more, and assert your originality with stems and cut-downs available on selected tracks. As well as curated collections and playlists – including an ad music playlists for marketers – we offer a personalised music briefing service. Whether you’re looking for full sonic branding or background music, simply send us your brief and we’ll find the perfect track for your campaign.

                  Finally, when it comes to licensing, we offer scalable solutions for any platform or market, with flexible packages covering everything from global broadcasts to TikTok ads. And with unlimited, lifetime, commercial usage under one straightforward license agreement, we eliminate the risk of non-compliance and legal headaches. To find out more about TV advertising costs, check out our blog.

                  Read All About It

                  So now you know all about production music for ads, and one of the best platforms for ad-ready music licensing, why not dig into some more of our blogs, from why licensing music for social media is a smarter choice than using free libraries and why the smartest ads always start with sound to how to license a song for video and how to find music for YouTube videos,  TikTok or Instagram.

                  Need Music for Your Project?

                  At Audio Network we create original music, of the highest quality, for broadcastersbrandscreatorsagencies and music fans everywhere. Through clear and simple licensing, we can offer you a huge variety of the best quality music across every conceivable mood and genre. Find out how we can connect you with the perfect collaborator today by clicking the button below!

                  PRODUCTION MUSIC FOR ADS: HOW TO FIND IT FAST (AND STAY ON BUDGET) Read More »

                  headphones on mac

                  BUSTING MUSIC LICENSING MYTHS

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                    There are so many myths when it comes to music licensing, it’s no wonder many marketing teams don’t know where to start when it comes to securing the best soundtrack for their project.

                    In this blog, we set about busting some of the most pernicious music licensing myths, tackling everything from the importance of music as a creative tool to what constitutes fair use in licensing terms.

                    Music Licensing Myths

                    • Music is just a finishing touch
                    • I can just use any track under fair use
                    • Popular music is always the best choice
                    • All royalty-free music is the same
                    • Licensing music is expensive and complicated

                    Myth #1 – “Music is just a finishing touch”

                    Viewing music as a nice-to-have rather than an essential tool in brand marketing, is a huge error. When it comes to making a lasting impression on audiences, music plays an integral role in enhancing storytelling, reinforcing brand identity and forging deep emotional connections.

                    Consider the power of sonic branding. Whether you’re using soundscapes, commissioning bespoke branded jingles or creating an audio logo, music can become intrinsically connected to events and emotions, helping cement your branding in the mind of consumers for years to come. So whether you’re after background music or intro music, it pays to make the right choice.

                    Myth #2 – “I can just use any track under fair use.”

                    The term “fair use” means using parts of a song without gaining the permission of the copyright owner. In the UK, fair use is decided on a case-by-case basis and is only applicable in specific circumstances such as teaching, criticism and non-commercial research. If you intend to use copyrighted music in the context of commercial use without securing the correct licence, you will be opening yourself and your brand up to legal challenges and takedown requests.

                    Obtaining the correct commercial music rights can be a complicated process, involving getting in touch with songwriters, performers, publishers and record labels. A much easier approach is to choose a trusted production music library, like Audio Network, to obtain music that’s pre-cleared for commercial platforms.

                    Myth #3 – “Popular music is always the best choice.”

                    It can be tempting to believe that securing an instantly recognisable hit for your campaign is the most effective form of marketing. The truth is that it is extremely expensive to license commercial music and it doesn’t guarantee any creative advantage.

                    Custom tracks offer brands greater flexibility to hone their message and can be every bit as emotionally resonant as a piece of commercial music. There are two paths when it comes to seeking out custom tracks: commissioning a bespoke piece from a songwriter – which is a very time-consuming and expensive undertaking – and using a production music library.

                    At Audio Network we offer more than 280,000 high quality tracks, spanning every genre, style and mood imaginable, And with cut downs, alts and stems available on selected tracks, you’re able to make the track your own, tailoring your sound to your project. Tracks are licensed worldwide, in perpetuity, allowing you the peace of mind that you are futureproofing your brand campaign.

                    Myth #4 – “All royalty-free music is the same.”

                    As royalty-free music myths go, this is one of the most pervasive. Put bluntly, the idea that all royalty-free music is the same couldn’t be further from the truth. Low cost stock libraries frequently equate to low quality recordings – a gamble that could damage your brand long-term.

                    At Audio Network you can expect nothing but the very best quality. We commission and curate performances by leading artists, musicians and composers from all over the world, recording our music at the world’s finest studios including Abbey Road Studios, Air Studios and Synchron Stage Vienna. Our in-house team of music experts have a hand in every stage of the process, from A&R to mixing and mastering, valuing quality above all else.

                    Beyond the music, we offer a range of tools to help our customers find the perfect track, from music consultancy to curated new music playlists, cut downs, alts and stems to super-fast, AI-powered prompt search.

                    Myth #5 – “Licensing music is expensive and complicated”

                    In many instances, music licensing is expensive and complicated and can involve applying to rightsholders directly for mechanical rights, synchronisation rights, performance rights, publishing rights and master rights. Learn more in our music glossary and our guide to music licensing. But just because enterprise music licensing and business music licensing can be complicated, it doesn’t need to be.

                    By using a production music library like Audio Network, you can avoid legal headaches. We offer high quality music licensed worldwide, forever, and a range of flexible pricing models. To find out more about our licensing offering, get in touch.

                    Discover More

                    So now you’re wise to the key music licensing myths, why not check out more of our blogs, from why licensing music for social media is a smarter choice than using free libraries and why the smartest ads always start with sound to how to license a song for video and how to find music for YouTube videos,  TikTok or Instagram

                    Need Music for Your Project?

                    At Audio Network we create original music, of the highest quality, for broadcastersbrandscreatorsagencies and music fans everywhere. Through clear and simple licensing, we can offer you a huge variety of the best quality music across every conceivable mood and genre. Find out how we can connect you with the perfect collaborator today by clicking the button below!

                    BUSTING MUSIC LICENSING MYTHS Read More »

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                    HOW TO USE AUDIO NETWORK SOUND EFFECTS

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                      From foley sounds to ambient effects, Audio Network can now bring you 200,000+ sounds from industry-leaders Pro Sound Effects, alongside our ever-expanding catalogue of more than 280,000 music tracks, Audio Network is your one-stop shop for world-class audio to elevate your content.

                      How Do I Licence Sound Effects?

                      All of Pro Sound Effects’ exceptional sounds are offered as part of an annual music subscription.

                      Preview the whole catalogue for free, then simply contact one of our account managers to ask about adding the Sound Effects subscription licence to your Music subscription licence. Then you can go ahead and download your chosen sounds and music, for a seamless audio workflow.

                      How Do I Search for Sound Effects?

                      For the most straightforward search, type the keywords, separated by spaces. Sounds matching all those words will be filtered for you. For example: "beach waves" finds sounds containing both "beach" AND "waves".

                      Advanced Options

                      Need something more specific? Use parentheses with commas for "OR" searches: eg a search for "(dog,cat)" finds sounds with "dog" OR "cat".

                      Alternatively, add a minus sign to exclude words: "-traffic" excludes sounds tagged with "traffic".

                      To make your search really simple, partial words work automatically. So, type "drum" to find "drums," "drumming," etc.

                      What Benefits Do I Get?

                      • Award-winning quality
                      • Complete coverage
                      • Fast workflow
                      • A complete sonic toolkit at your fingertips
                      • Simple licensing

                      Award-Winning Quality

                      Access the same sound effects created and used by industry-leading sound designers like Oscar®-winners Mark Mangini (Dune, Mad Max: Fury Road) and Richard King (Dune: Part Two, Oppenheimer).

                      Complete Coverage

                      From ambiences to whooshes, access over 200,000+ curated sounds across 550+ categories - everything you need for TV, film, advertising, digital, social or corporate content.

                      Fast Workflow

                      Our detailed metadata and intuitive search tools explore both sound descriptions and file names to find your perfect match, fast.

                      A Complete Sonic Toolkit at Your Fingertips

                      With our seamless platform integration, you can instantly access and licence sound effects through your Audio Network login – no separate tools needed. Which means you can be ready for any brief or last-minute edit: music and sound, sorted.

                      Simple Licensing

                      Unlimited, lifetime, commercial usage under one straightforward license agreement, eliminating the risk of non-compliance and legal headaches.

                      With a complete arsenal of Sound Effects at your disposal as well as world-class music, Audio Network is now your one-stop shop for exceptional sound.

                      To find out more about Sound Effects from Audio Network, get in touch with your Account Manager.

                      Need Music for Your Project?

                      At Audio Network we create original music, of the highest quality, for broadcastersbrandscreatorsagencies and music fans everywhere. Through clear and simple licensing, we can offer you a huge variety of the best quality music across every conceivable mood and genre. Find out how we can connect you with the perfect collaborator today by clicking the button below!

                      HOW TO USE AUDIO NETWORK SOUND EFFECTS Read More »