MUMBAI: A new online tool ‘The Music Licensing Directory’ (MLD) that simplifies music licensing process and extends the reach of artists around the world is launched today.

The site lists and analysis more than 400 companies around the world, that license music into film, TV, advertising and games as well as new companies that license music directly to brands and new media.

MLD simplifies the licensing maze by providing important details about how individual companies work, the deals and arrangements they make with artists. It also has a search feature allowing users to find companies based upon certain criteria, such as location, exclusivity, ownership rights and recent clients and sync placements. 

Music Licensing Directory CEO Winston Giles said, “Never before has a platform existed that allows users to quickly and simply find and approach companies across such a broad spectrum of the global music licensing industry.  For the first time - one online resource provides an extensive and searchable database of music licensing libraries and music supervision companies whilst also including new types of companies that have emerged - music branding companies and companies that crowd source music licensing needs.”

The directory enables artists, music representatives and music rights holders to get their music licensed in countries around the world and make money with their music whilst taking advantage of the changing music and media industries.

The music business, in particular, music licensing industry is rapidly evolving. It has expanded beyond film, television and advertising.  Brands now look to artists and innovative music branding strategies as critical for successful marketing. New technology and new forms of media present fresh needs for music. Music licensing has grown to a global multi-billion dollar industry, and has always presented a difficult and complex process for artists, bands and music rights holders.

MLD is the brainchild of two industry experts in the music licensing and Internet industries Adrian and Winston Giles. They have also launched an e-book “A Guide to Music Licensing and working with Music Licensing Companies” on the subject.

Winston Giles is a recording artist, producer, record label owner and music licensing professional. He has released many albums under different monikers (The Winston Giles Orchestra, Atari Baby, Floor 13) and has successfully licensed his music.

Adrian Giles is an entrepreneur specializing in the Internet and information technology industry. In 1997 Adrian founded Sinewave Interactive, Australia's first search engine optimization company. In 1998 he founded Hitwise.com which became one of the most recognized global internet measurement brands.