Music distribution is about making music available on platforms like streaming services & stores, focusing on reaching listeners & selling music. Licensing, however, involves granting rights to use music in media like films, TV, advertisements, or video games.
Distribution deal. A distribution deal (also known as distribution contract or distribution agreement) is a legal agreement between one party and another, to handle distribution of a product. There are various forms of distribution deals. There are exclusive and non-exclusive distribution agreements.
Non-Exclusive License: Allows the licensor to license the IP to multiple licensees. This is commonly used when the licensor wants to maximize reach and distribution. Sole License: Gives one licensee rights to the IP, but the licensor can still use the IP themselves.
Negotiating a Distributorship Agreement: Five Critical Steps to Success Execute a master agreement. Define the relevant goods subject to the agreement. Address all relevant intellectual property issues. Make sure renewal options and termination clauses allow the parties to adjust to changing market conditions.
Here are the steps to find and negotiate a distribution agreement: Step 1: Meet with the distributor. Step 2: Discuss the terms of distribution. Step 3: Review the details, such as marketing materials, catalogs, or product literature. Step 4: Hire a lawyer or an expert to draft the agreement.
The agreement is usually between a manufacturer or vendor and a distributor but, in some cases, may involve two distributors or a distributor and some other channel entity.
The term for Distribution Agreements varies, with terms being anywhere from 5 to 15 years. I try to limit the term as much as possible—especially when there is no advance, or a meager one.