Once you’ve been approached by a label, or have decided to take the plunge and organize some studio time, you will be expected to sign a number of different contracts and agreements which ultimately can determine the success (and profit) of your venture. It is absolutely vital that you understand exactly what you are signing and what the implications of the contract will be.
The most common contract you will come across as a recording artist is a simple recording contract. In it the relationship between yourself and the record label or studio should be clearly defined. Any responsibilities you may have for supplying technicians and producers, management, and promotional staff should be laid out in writing. The distribution methods should also be mentioned – specifically, who will be paying for the record distribution, how it will be done, and who will need to organise the pressing, packing and shipping. Licensing should be another section you should look over carefully – who owns the rights to the music, and has this been clearly defined for all countries or just the UK?
Of course one of the main points of interest in any contract is the allocation of profit, and it is incredibly important that you read this section and understand the implications. Your record label or company may offer a percentage of royalties, a profit-share agreement, or a combination of the two. The last thing you want is to be successful with the public only to find that your hard work has lined the pockets of a label executive, so be extra careful with this section of the contract before you sign.
The most common contract you will come across as a recording artist is a simple recording contract. In it the relationship between yourself and the record label or studio should be clearly defined. Any responsibilities you may have for supplying technicians and producers, management, and promotional staff should be laid out in writing. The distribution methods should also be mentioned – specifically, who will be paying for the record distribution, how it will be done, and who will need to organise the pressing, packing and shipping. Licensing should be another section you should look over carefully – who owns the rights to the music, and has this been clearly defined for all countries or just the UK?
Of course one of the main points of interest in any contract is the allocation of profit, and it is incredibly important that you read this section and understand the implications. Your record label or company may offer a percentage of royalties, a profit-share agreement, or a combination of the two. The last thing you want is to be successful with the public only to find that your hard work has lined the pockets of a label executive, so be extra careful with this section of the contract before you sign.