Before signing a record deal or any other contract artists need to make sure they understand EVERY SINGLE THING on the contract they are signing. There are many companies that are willing to take advantage of young artists or those they know will not read over the whole agreement. It doesn’t matter what you were told, the contract could mean something totally different.
Also even if you read the contract, it can be easy for terms to be hidden in small print, which could change 
your rights dramatically. It is highly recommended to have an entertainment lawyer or music lawyer present when you are talking to the company who is offering you the deal. As well as have your music lawyer read over your contract with you. They will help you understand your rights and what you are about to sign.
Artists getting taken advantage of is a pretty common situation that happens in the entertainment industry. Entertainment lawyers have lots of cases where artists come in to discuss a contract that they had already signed… and it is too late. You do not want this to happen because it could cause you to not make as much money as you should be making or could ruin your career completely.
Entertainment lawyers can also help you negotiate or offer suggestions for what else should be in the contract before you sign. Ideally, they could get you a better deal or could save you from a terrible mistake. They will be your safety guard and make sure everything on your contract is correct and to your liking. Another bonus of using an entertainment lawyer is they usually have connections in the entertainment industry and could find you a better deal than the one you are about to sign.
Entertainment lawyers usually charge an hourly fee or a percentage of the money value of your deal. Hourly rates may run from $200 and up. Make sure to find out any additional costs and if there is a retainer before settling down with your music attorney. The cost will also depend if you need them for one time use or for long-term.
BEFORE SIGNING ANYTHING. Before signing your band agreement, with a publisher, with a manager, a record deal, and a licensing deal. If you are in a band hire an entertainment lawyer to negotiate who owns the copyright to the songs, how royalties are distributed, who owns the band name and etc. Bands can be great as long as you all agree upon who owns what. If you cannot come to an agreement then an entertainment lawyer is highly recommended. If you are a songwriter who is about to sign with a publisher have an entertainment lawyer present to make sure you are getting the right deal. Making a deal with a publisher can get you much-needed exposure and you do not want it to go wrong.
When you are ready to have a manager NEVER sign unless you have a music attorney present. Manager agreements can be the life or death of your career! A scenario that can happen is if you sign a deal that you can’t get out of for years even after you have left the manager. As well as having a lawyer present when signing a record deal. Make sure it is your OWN music lawyer not a representative for both parties. You will not get the best deal if you do not have your own music lawyer on just your side. Lastly, do not sign a licensing deal without a music attorney. You do not want the songs you own getting used in a production you do not agree with. For anything you are signing have an entertainment attorney present so that you completely understand what you are signing.
Chase Lawyers represent music artists frequently. They are very knowledgeable of music contracts and have connections in the music industry. Chase Lawyers has entertainment lawyers in NYC and Miami. They will make sure their clients understand their contract before they sign and advice them on any issues within the contract. Overall, they want to get their clients the best deal and see them succeed. Find out more about entertainment lawyers in NYC and Miami by viewing Chase Lawyers website.
Signing a 360 Record Deal
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The entertainment industry can be a complicated field to navigate. As a trusted leader in Miami entertainment law, ChaseLawyers can help. With over 40 years of experience, Our Miami based lawyers have helped individuals in nearly every area of entertainment law in Miami, including sports, music, film, television, modeling, literature, and more. We understand the unique challenges you face as a creative, and we’re prepared to protect your interests.
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When you’re ready to take the next step in your career, our Miami entertainment lawyers are ready to help you. We are passionate about helping creatives with all of their legal needs, and you won’t find a team more dedicated to your success in all of Miami. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation!
