Diligent, Compassionate And Comprehensive Trial Lawyer

Have an Attorney Review Your Music Contracts

| Mar 12, 2011 | Entertainment Law

The cost of an attorney can be prohibitive for young musicians or bands starting out. I understand that in the early stages a band is so excited for an opportunity that they will sign whatever contract comes to them in hopes of making it big. I have also heard a lot of artists say that “the contract seems pretty straightforward.” I ensure you that in the music industry nothing is “pretty straightforward”. If it were not drafted in lengthy “lawyer speak” it would not take a 12 page contract to license one song from a band. Do not make the mistake of assuming that you understand every provision in the contract.

As an attorney who has reviewed hundred of recording, publishing, licensing, and management contracts, I must tell you that you absolutely must have an experienced entertainment lawyer review the contract. If you take your music and your band seriously, you can not afford to blindly enter into contracts that you do not understand. I have seen contracts that tie up the artist for several years without a chance to exit. I have seen contracts that grant the record company or manager power of attorney. I have also seen contracts that wrongfully take all the rights to music created and recorded by you. Furthermore, many of these contracts offer nothing in return. There is often no financial advance, no intellectual support, and no promise to promote the band or your music.

I can review most contracts and provide a detailed opinion letter as to its strengths and weaknesses for much less than you might expect. I will make it absolutely clear if it is a contract you need to avoid. In most cases, I will have the response to you within a week. It is an incredibly small price to pay for a service that may save your bands career and save you hundreds of thousands of dollars if the song becomes a hit.

Furthermore, I can review contracts for artists around the Country. While I am admitted to practice in Rhode Island and Massachusetts, the language of music contracts is often universal and I can review a contract offered to an artist anywhere.

Regardless of the nature of the music contract, contact our office right away for a thorough review. I will inform you of the strengths and weaknesses of the contract and inform you if it is a contract that you must avoid.

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