Music Recording Contract
Alternate Names:
A Music Recording Contract is also known as a/an:
- Record Deal
- Recording Contract
- Record Label Contract
- Artist Contract
- Band Contract
What is a Music Recording Contract?
A Music Recording Contract, or a record deal, is an agreement that record labels use to assert their ownership of the product of a recording session (the master recording) and their licensing rights in the promotion of the record. They also use the contract to detail the payment of a fixed percentage of royalties to singers and/or songwriters who wish to record music (i.e. music artists recording an album or filming a music video).
Why do I need a Music Recording Contract?
A Music Recording Contract defines the terms of the recording and distribution process. It provides contractual assurances to the record label regarding the performance and conduct of the singer(s), songwriter(s), band members, during the process of recording and releasing an album. At the same time it can allow the artist autonomy in certain aspects of the creative process and provides that the record label will front the costs associated with producing and promoting an album. These are usually the matters which must be settled in order for a record label to work with a recording artist.
This contract template is ideal for independent record labels and new recording artists.
What is in a record deal?
A Music Recording Contract should include the following:
- Recording company details (name, contact info)
- Artist details (group name, names of each artist, contact info)
- Production details, e.g. studio address, recording session dates, control over song selections on the recording, and control over album title
- Recording details, e.g. number of tracks, length of the album, release date, notification of record rejection, re-recording date (if applicable)
- Exclusive agreement clause (a clause binding the artist(s) to the recording company, prohibiting them from entering a similar recording agreement with another company for the length of the contract)
- Payment of recording and promotional costs
- Percentage breakdown of royalties
- Promotional appearances (maximum number of appearances, appearance fees, etc.)
- Termination Provisions (on written notice in the event of non-performance by either party)
Can a record deal be broken?
As with most contracts, a record deal can be broken if either party fails to uphold the obligations and responsibilities agreed upon in the contract. For example, the artist or band might be unable to complete the recordings within the agreed term, or the company might fail to release the album within the agreed time period. In such scenarios notice of termination can be served by the affected party.
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