With over 40 years in the music industry - including securing all song rights for Ritchie Valens’ biopic “La Bamba” and representing the iconic hit “Kung Fu Fighting” - I’m joined by Sindee Levin, an entertainment lawyer and music publishing administrator with decades of experience in rights management across both music and film. She’s worked extensively in the U.S. and international markets, helping artists and companies navigate the complex world of publishing, licensing, and royalties.
We talk about how Sindee got her start in the industry, what music publishing is, and when it actually matters. She breaks down the difference between PROs and administrators, how to collect royalties, deal types, and what artists should do to prepare legally before signing anything.
It’s an honest, educational, and empowering conversation that cuts through the confusion around music rights. You’ll walk away with a clearer understanding of how the publishing world works and how to navigate it with confidence. If you’re an artist who wants to truly understand music publishing or someone aspiring to build a career on the business side of music, this episode was made for you.
Sindee's Website: https://www.sindeelevinmusic.com/
Listen to the Gemini Baby Playlist: https://www.geminibaby.com/playlists
Music by Sam Ashe
Time Stamps:
0:00 Introduction
0:55 Meet Sindee
3:38 How Sindee Got Her Start as a Music Attorney/Publisher
7:41 Music Supervisors and Sync
16:45 Defining Music Publishing
21:15 PRO’s vs. Administrators
28:48 When Publishing Actually Matters32:32 Deal Types
34:28 Royalty Collection
43:30 Preparing for Publishing
45:06 Legal Insights
55:00 Music Recommendations
1:00:31 Collective Affirmation
