It’s important that the business arrangement between a manager and their client (artist, musician, songwriter, producer, engineer, etc) be put into writing and signed by both parties in the form of an artist management contract or music manager agreement.
Even though disasters cannot always be avoided, obligations can be made much clearer and responsibilities more easily understood with the presence of a written artist management agreement. Before you get an attorney to draft a contract for you, however, you should first take stock of what you are prepared to do with and for an artist and what you expect out of the relationship.
Artist Record Deal Contract In Massachusetts
Instant download
Description
Free preview
Form popularity
FAQ
512250 - Record Production and Distribution This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in record production (e.g., tapes, CDs) and/or releasing, promoting, and distributing sound recordings to wholesalers, retailers, or directly to the public.
Ultimately, your label and publishing entities should be LLCs (your PRO publishing designee is just a DBA, not a distinct legal entity from yourself), and you should have a touring corporation for your live performances, since that's where the biggest risk is.
Whether a record label needs an LLC depends on its size, goals, and risk tolerance. While not mandatory, an LLC offers personal liability protection for owners, enhances credibility, and provides a clear legal structure. Smaller labels may consider budget constraints, annual fees and risk exposure before deciding.
If you want to run your record label as a business entity, then the best is to go for a limited liability company or a corporation. LLCs have the same legal protection as corporations, but fewer formalities to fulfill when it comes to administrative requirements.
Your Music Recording Contract should cover details like: Compensation and royalties. Where and when the album will be recorded. The album's release date. Who has creative control over specific elements of the album. The termination clause. The exclusive agreement clause. Dispute resolution. Promotional appearances.
How to get signed by a record label Define your sound. Build your online presence. Release high-quality music. Develop your industry network. Submit your music. Music managers and music lawyers.
It outlines the terms and conditions of the artist's recording and distribution of music. This contract specifies the rights and responsibilities of both parties, including details about the production, promotion, and financial aspects of the music released under the label.
There are different kinds of structures, but most record label owners choose a sole proprietorship or limited liability company (LLC), while some choose a corporation. The main difference between an LLC and a sole proprietorship is that an LLC gives liability protection.
The revenue is generally split between the label and the artists, but prominent artists may be able to arrange exclusive or preferential contracts. This option may not always be available for artists of lesser stature. On average, record labels take between 50 and 90 percent of what an artist or band makes.
A common split of the profit is an equal 50/50 split between the label and artist, but a higher split may be agreed in favour of either party. The label will traditionally cover all or most costs upfront.