
Why Most Composers Fail at Trailer Music (And How to Fix It)
Breaking into trailer music is about way more than just making epic tracks — it’s about understanding the real nuances that make a track land with picture. In this dispatch, I’m breaking down the key things every composer should know about structure, genre specialization, sound palette, and writing for the trailer world.
‘The Accountant 2’ Features ‘Big Stepper’ by Nathan Fields x Darby Phillips
Big Stepper, a track by Nathan Fields and Darby Phillips, lands in this spot for The Accountant 2, the high-stakes sequel starring Ben Affleck as the numbers expert with a deadly edge.
HIM Trailer features "Out For Revenge" by Nathan Fields
Nathan Fields' track Out For Revenge brings dark cinematic energy to the official trailer for HIM, a psychological thriller produced by Jordan Peele and directed by Justin Tipping. The film hits theaters September 19, 2025.
The Brutality of Trailer Music Selection: What Makes the Cut in the High-Stakes Game
Behind every powerful film trailer is a high-stakes battle to find the perfect music. With studios hiring multiple trailer houses to compete, music plays a crucial role in making each cut stand out. But what audiences don’t see is the intense selection process, the countless unused tracks, and the relentless pressure to create something unforgettable.
What Marketers Can Learn from Music’s Hook Strategy
The first few seconds in music or marketing are like the opening line of a great story—they set the tone for what’s to come. Whether crafting a song or a campaign, those moments matter more than ever in a fast-paced, attention-driven world.
Why Sound Design is Essential to Great Filmmaking
Sound design isn’t just background noise; it’s a powerful storytelling tool that shapes the atmosphere, evokes emotion, and immerses the audience. Whether it’s subtle foley effects or an epic score, sound design plays a crucial role in elevating the cinematic experience.
Audio Engineering Pitfalls That Slow You Down (And How to Avoid Them)
Bad audio habits can creep in without us realizing it. From messy cable management to over-processing during mixing, these mistakes can slow down your workflow and impact audio quality. The good news? A few simple adjustments can make all the difference in recording, mixing, and managing your projects.
Custom Music or Stock Music? The Smart Way to Choose
Struggling to decide between custom music and stock music for your video? Custom music offers a unique sound tailored to your brand, while stock music is quick, affordable, and ready to go. Each has its pros and cons, so knowing when to use which can make or break your project.
Sonic Branding: How Sound Design Shapes a Brand’s Identity
Sound doesn’t just fill silence—it shapes brand identity. The right sound design can evoke emotions, reinforce brand personality, and help your audience instantly recognize your brand. Done right, sound leaves a lasting impression that visuals alone can’t achieve.
How to Develop an Ear for Trailer Music: Key Elements for Impactful Soundtracks
Discover how to create impactful trailer music by focusing on three key elements: build, variety, and finality. Learn how these principles shape memorable soundtracks and elevate storytelling.
Black Sheep Music’s Contribution: A Wrap-Up of This Year’s Clio Award-Winning Campaigns
Proud to have contributed to a few standout campaigns recognized at the 2024 Clio Entertainment Awards. Excited to share how our music made its contribution in this year’s winners!
Nathan Fields x Darby Phillips ‘Vile Infestation’ Featured in ‘Smile 2’ Campaign
Hyped to share that our track "Vile Infestation" is featured in the international trailer for Smile 2. While we haven’t tracked down the exact spot online yet, if you find it, let me know!
Celebrating Thanksgiving Through American Music
Thanksgiving is more than just turkey and cranberry sauce; it has inspired some of the most cherished songs in American music. From early hymns like "We Gather Together" to modern tunes such as Ben Rector's "The Thanksgiving Song," the themes of gratitude and family resonate through these melodies. Explore how this holiday has shaped the soundtrack of American culture.
Master and Publishing Simplified: Music Copyrights Explained
Discover the world of music licensing, sync opportunities, and creative collaborations. Learn the ins and outs of mastering, publishing, and copyright ownership to maximize your music's potential in film, TV, and beyond. Stay informed with expert insights and tips for navigating the music industry, from writing and recording to negotiating deals and securing placements.
Soundtracks in Video Games: The Power of Music
Explore the dynamic fusion of music and gaming, a vibrant space bursting with innovation and creativity. Discover how interactive soundtracks and virtual concerts are revolutionizing both industries, creating unique and immersive experiences for players and music lovers alike.
Music & Brand Building: Nostalgic Hits About Autumn
As the crisp autumn air sets in and leaves begin to fall, it's a perfect time to dive into how storytelling in music, particularly autumn-themed songs, offers valuable entrepreneurial lessons and insights. From nostalgic melodies to cozy vibes, these songs do more than set the seasonal mood—they provide lessons in storytelling and branding that every entrepreneur can learn from.
How Film Music Has Transformed Over Time
The journey of film scores from the silent era to modern blockbusters showcases a rich evolution in cinema. Initially, live music accompanied silent films to provide emotional context. As "talkies" emerged, composers like Max Steiner and Erich Wolfgang Korngold crafted lush orchestral scores integral to storytelling. Today, blending traditional orchestration with digital innovation, film music continues to captivate and shape cinematic experiences.
Phil Spector’s “Wall of Sound”: The Technique That Changed Music Forever
Phil Spector’s “Wall of Sound” technique revolutionized music production with its rich, layered orchestral sound. Discover how this groundbreaking method was created and its lasting impact on the industry
The Kinks’ ‘You Really Got Me’: How a Broken Guitar Amp Created the Iconic Fuzz Sound
Discover how a damaged amplifier led to the creation of the groundbreaking fuzz sound in The Kinks' hit "You Really Got Me," revolutionizing rock music forever.
Nathan Fields x Tommy Will’s Track Featured in Netflix’s Starting 5 Trailer
My track Heart of a King, created with Tommy Will, was featured in the trailer for Netflix’s Starting 5. The series offers a raw look at the lives of five iconic NBA players, showcasing their grit and determination both on and off the court.