Want a Daytime Emmy in a Music Category? The Academy Has Some Tasks for You

The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences announced some rule changes on Thursday (Feb. 1), which include requiring potential nominees in music categories to supply more information.

“For categories identified as music categories (these are music direction and composition and original song in the Daytime Emmys), nominees will be REQUIRED to provide complete publishing information and sign an additional NATAS-issued licensing agreement allowing NATAS to use the music featured in the ceremony clip(s),” the Academy said in a statement. “The information will be distributed to nominees only. Failure to provide adequate information AND proper contact information for a legally authorized signer will result in a different clip being selected or replacement of the music with rights-cleared music at NATAS’ discretion.”

The emphasis on the words “required” and “and” was in the original directive from the Academy.

At the 2023 Daytime Emmys Creative Arts Ceremony in December, Jennifer Nettles and Bill Sherman won outstanding original song for “Life Is Sweet” from American Anthems (PBS). A platoon of 10 composers won outstanding music direction and composition for Home (Apple TV+).

Just being considered for a Daytime Emmy isn’t cheap. Entry fees for program categories are $425 with a late fee of $500. Entry fees for performer, host and craft categories are $350 with a late fee of $400.

Here’s the timeline for the 51st annual Daytime Emmys: