Music Contract Lies, 101

Ty Cohen asked:


Brace yourself, because the music industry is full of lies. But what industry doesn’t have its share of truths, lies and exaggerations? I am sure there isn’t one without issues. But you are in the music industry so you need to be aware of some of the issues that pertain to you, especially when dealing with music contracts and recording contracts. Being naive is something that can hurt you the most. That is why I am here to reveal some of the biggest lies to look for and how you can prepare yourself. The music industry can be tough but you will do fine as long has you know what you are getting into.

One of the first lies that you need to avoid is, “I can’t throw “that” in the contract right now, but you have my word on it.” If you hear this, red flags should go up. Most of the time little idiosyncrasies can be worked out later but you have to be on guard. A man’s handshake is not what it used to be. If you feel the detail is crucial then demand it be in writing in your music business contracts or else you may find yourself in an unwanted situation.

The next big lie when it comes to music contracts is, “You don’t need to show this to your lawyer.” Hmm…It makes you think, right? Well, at least it should! There should be nothing in writing that you shouldn’t show to your lawyer when someone says that. That should throw up another red flag because why can’t you show it to your lawyer? Don’t believe it!

Another big lie you need to watch out for may come up in simple conversation about your recording contracts. This one is…”Of course, everyone has agreed to this…” or “That’s standard, it is in every contract.” They may be telling the truth but then again, they may not be. If you feel uneasy about what it is you are about to sign, then seek help from a trusted friend, manager, lawyer, colleague, whoever. Don’t be afraid to take time to read over ANY contract.

The bottom line is that if you feel that a situation is uncomfortable or unfair for any reason, then always trust your instincts. Don’t assume that because you have become friends with a person that their word is enough. Business is business when it comes down to music contracts. Never mix friendship and business because they don’t mesh. If you keep everything in writing then no one gets hurt and everyone stays aware and happy.



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The Music Business is the Music Business

Veronica Lane asked:


The Music Business Is The Music Business and that really is that bottom line. This applies to all businesses especially those that involve the music industry. Whether the business is between a trusted friend, an acquaintance or someone you just met, the same rules apply.

Many musicians or music industry entrepreneurs don’t pay enough attention to the business aspect of their career and as a result end up broke or in bad deals. It is a good thing there are great musician resources out there to help.

Even if we are just talking about how to promote your CD it is crucial for a musician to take an aggressive look and active role in learning the daily business of their music career. In fact, some say that the music business aspect is where you should spend the majority of your energy in order to maintain a successful career. One of the best things you can do is protect your music and all music promotional ideas that come your way.

The music business is littered with musicians and we all know who they are, who made it big but ended up with nothing. But how did this happen, you ask? Maybe they were too focused on being stars and just signed their life away. And when that happened,  everything they made went to someone else. One of the best musician resources out there is the firm understanding of music contracts and all that go with them.

It is all fine and dandy if you know how to promote your CD or have an entourage of people coming up with music promotional ideas. But do you know if you will even make any money off the sale of the CD? If so, how much? If you can’t answer these questions and you are in the music industry then you could be in serious trouble. So, before you even think about signing read your contract, have it reviewed and have a firm understanding of every single term.

So, take an active role in your music, the business of the industry and everything that goes along with it. For after all, this is your career and your life. You don’t want the people all around you running it with no knowledge of what is going on. If you do nothing else for yourself, then at least do yourself this very favor from day one before you even begin to worry about how to promote your CD.



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