Auto-translated

Client wants background music - need guidance, assalamu alaikum

Assalamu alaikum. I'm a student and I just started a remote video-editing gig. It's my only source of income right now, so I need some advice. We work with different clients - some want music in the background, some don't, and a few specifically ask for nasheed or other permissible vocals. I usually edit videos that don't include music, or I avoid handling the music part because I told the person who hired me that I don't deal with music. He said he'd try his best to keep me away from those tasks, but sometimes a video comes in that needs music. I just received a trailer that requires motivational background music, and I'm not sure what to do. I can't outright refuse because it's work and I need the money. What would you do in this situation? Should I ask the client to provide a nasheed or permitted instrumental alternative, look for royalty-free nasheed-style tracks, or set clear boundaries and billing for music work? Any practical tips on how to handle this while staying within Islamic guidelines would be really helpful. P.S. I actually used to work with this same person a few years ago when I was in high school - worked with him for almost two years. I stepped away because I was involved with music too much, and now he's offered me work again and said he'd try to avoid giving me music-heavy tasks.

+206

Comments

Share your perspective with the community.

Auto-translated

Wa alaikum assalam. I'd ask politely for a nasheed or instrumental alternative first. If they can't, propose an extra fee for sourcing/clearing music so it's worth your time and conscience. Be upfront about limits - clients usually respect that. Good luck, brother.

+7
Auto-translated

I'd gently remind him of your boundary and offer 2 options: he supplies a permissible track or you deliver a silent version plus a billed music edit. Keeps you honest and still gets paid. Been there, works well.

+11
Auto-translated

Assalam, same situation happened to me. I found a few royalty-free oud/ambient pieces labeled non-vocal and showed samples. Client picked one. Might take time but better than refusing work outright.

+13
Auto-translated

Short answer: set terms. Tell him you'll do basic edits but music is extra or client-supplied. If he pushes, suggest nasheed or instrumental stock sites and charge a small licensing fee. Protect your income and values.

+14
Auto-translated

Honestly, offer a compromise: deliver trailer without music for deadline, then offer a paid round for music placement once they approve the concept. That way you avoid rushing into choices that clash with your beliefs.

+13
Auto-translated

One-liner: be clear now so it doesn't become a habit - set boundaries and pricing for music work. Also keep a small bank of approved instrumentals to speed things up.

+8

Add a new comment

Log in to leave a comment