How Do I Negotiate a Recording Artist Contract With a Manager?
As an aspiring record artist, being offered a recording contract can be extremely exciting. It may seem like your dreams are finally coming true. But it is important not to let the excitement overwhelm your ability to negotiate the best possible deal. Not only do you need to come to an agreement with the recording company, but you must also have an agreement with your manager. Your manager's job is to steer your career in the right direction. Your manager plays a key role in contract negotiations.
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Instructions
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Review the contract offered. Meet with your manager and attorney to read over the details of the contract. An experienced attorney with a background in music law will need to review the contract's fine print carefully. Have the attorney explain the details and what you will be committing to if you choose to accept the terms of the contract. .
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Research the label offering the contract. Do as much research as possible before signing a contract. Look up present artists signed to the label. Consider how their careers have grown since being under the label.
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Discuss the direction of your career. As an artist, you should be in complete control of the direction you want to take. Explain your future plans and goals to the manger. Make sure you are both on the same page.
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Seek an advance. Ask the manager to get you an advance sufficient enough to cover your production expenses. An artist should not have to pay these costs out of pocket. Research the expenses of production to provide an accurate number at the negotiation table.
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Set the manager's fees. Today, there are various streams of income from which managers are seeking commissions. Common streams include: tours, album sales, advances, record royalty fees, licensing and merchandising deals. Clearly outline all fees in the contact.
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