And he's right.

The founder of Death Cab for Cutie's original record label tells The Stranger about the disconnects that you're already aware of.

Because so many bands submit music to editors and music supervisors at television shows like The O.C., Grey's Anatomy, and The Real World, the amount that bands and songwriters earn from soundtrack placement is stagnating -- or getting smaller.

In fact, there are so many bands that are willing to let Real World producers use their music (for perceived "buzz") that the producers no longer have to pay anything. I wouldn't be surprised if someone started charging folks to submit their music to the show's producers.

Remember that soundtrack placement is one of your multiple streams of music income. It's a good way to earn income, but it does not necessarily impact your audience growth. You will still have to balance out your work by pursuing live shows and direct sales to audience members.

Only by creating your own, deep connections with your audience can you build a network that will support you financially. Soundtrack placements can give you a little financial boost -- but not the long-term support you need.

As manager Chris Nilsson says in the article:

A placement on The Real World will rarely, if ever, cause sales or exposure to increase dramatically.

[via Reality Blurred]

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