If everyone hits the notes they're supposed to, Tuesday’s Madonna-themed episode of “Glee” is going to leave the Material Girl very very happy -- and not just from the female empowerment motif or Jane Lynch's stylized version of “Vogue.”
For one thing, it’s the only episode so far of the hit series dedicated to a single artist.
“I could see it happening again infrequently in the future,” Adam Anders, “Glee’s” music producer told TheWrap. “But Madonna was a great choice to start with because of the depth of her catalogue."
Indeed, that catalogue will hand Ms. Ciccone a nice chunk of financial joy from the licensing fees for the “New Directions” kids’ performance of 10 of her songs. Licensing, like live performance, is one of the few areas of the music business that is still actually growing.
It’s a very strategic move when you take a look at the calendar.
The “Glee” episode -- “Glee: The Power of Madonna”-- and accompanying record are out one week after Madonna's Sticky & Sweet Tour CD and DVD hit the market.
The album debuted in the Top 10, and the DVD topped the music-video charts.
“This ‘Glee’ episode is still a win/win for her and Live Nation's investment in her touring and related merchandise because of the publicity and the spike in sales they'll get for her new live DVD and CD," a music industry insider told TheWrap.
According to one individual close to the show, Madonna and her management granted the show total access to her entire catalogue after being personally approached by “Glee” co-creator Ryan Murphy last year.
It won’t hurt ratings for the already top-rated show, either.
“Glee’s” Anders wouldn’t confirm how much the show paid to use Madonna’s songs, but he did say that quantity helps. “The more you do, there is a bulk rate involved so you do get a better deal. Still, because of the production numbers, this was the most expensive ‘Glee’ we've ever done."
Network programs usually have a music budget of around $150,000 to $200,000 and spend about $10,000 to $15,000 to license the right to use a track.
Simon Harris of Fabric Publishing, who has had songs by its artists licensed for “Ugly Betty” and “CSI,” says “an artist or writer is not going to get rich from one song placement.” However, Harris says the rules and revenues of the game become a little different if you are a legacy superstar like Madonna.
Like Led Zeppelin and the Beatles, the singer -- who has not just a deep catalogue but a strong current fan base -- can command about $50,000 a tune, according to licensing agents who spoke to TheWrap.
Regardless of the discount Madonna gave “Glee,” the themed episode mostly likely will end up extremely lucrative for both the show and the performer.
