Sarah Jaffe, Kirtland Records
WHY CHOOSE DALLAS
On stage and in studio, Dallas has it all.
A vibrant live music scene continues to provide options for any kind of genre, form or style you could care to enjoy or participate in. The Dallas area is also home to several great concert venues, studios, licensing agencies, and incredible talent that has been signed to more national record labels than in all other parts of the state combined.
THE SITE AND THE SOUND
Music Helps Shape the Dallas Landscape
Dallas is the 9th largest city in the US and part of the number 1 visitor destination in the State of Texas, which means plenty of people who want to be entertained nightly. And, contrary to what some might believe… Dallas is overall a diverse, accepting and tolerant place. You can take a chance here. The sense of opportunity infuses all elements of this society, and that flows into the creative culture. Dallas is indeed a music city.
MUSIC
Frequently Asked Questions
You’ve got questions, and we’ve got answers. Here’s a few samples of the most popular info requests we get.
Feel free to take a look at our entire FAQ list.
How do I get started in the music industry?
The Texas Music Office has a detailed resource page to help you navigate through the first steps. Get started here.
I would love to have my music in films, TV, games, commercials, etc. Any advice on how to do that?
The person responsible for the music in a filming project is called the Music Supervisor. This position coordinates the music selection, licensing of rights and recordings. If a studio is attached to the project, they often have relationships with preferred record labels.
The best way to start is to work on small projects. You can build up a resume and have a better shot at the larger projects.
Do your research before submitting your music. This will insure that the music you send is suitable for the film subject.
Where can I find local music resources?
The Dallas Creative Industries Office is starting an online music directory. If you work in the local industry, we encourage you to list. Also, the Texas Music Office has a searchable directory.
If you are looking for local organizations or associations, click here.
What Music Festivals are in Dallas?
Dallas has many music events each year. Click here for the latest information
How do I obtain a license to use copyrighted music?
Find information about the song you would like to license such as the exact song title, songwriter, music publisher, and performing rights organization. Next, you will need to contact the performing rights organization to get the name, address and phone number of the publisher who controls the copyright. Contact the publisher and ask about obtaining a mechanical license for the song.
DALLAS CREATIVE HISTORY
508 Park
508 Park opened in 1930 as the Warner Brothers Exchange Building and served as a distribution point for films and records. Brunswick Records was located on the 3rd floor and in 1937, producer Don Law organized a makeshift recording studio for sessions with legendary musician Robert Johnson, Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys, and many other significant musicians of the time. In 2004, Eric Clapton recorded Johnson’s music at 508 Park, paying tribute to those special recordings and Johnson’s lasting impact on music.