Music
Songs, sessions and who gets paid
A song has at least two copyrights, a recording and a composition, and most disputes come from nobody writing down who owns which part. I put it on paper while everyone is still friends.
Record and distribution deals
What the label or distributor takes, what you keep, how long it lasts and how you get out. I read the term, the advance, the recoupment and the rights you hand over.
Publishing and royalties
Songwriter splits, publishing administration, sync licenses and what a statement should show. I help you register what you own and chase what you are owed.
Producers and session players
Work-for-hire or a share, points on the master, credits and a fee for the session. A one-page agreement before the first take saves a fight after the release.
Bands and collaborators
Who owns the name, how money is split, what happens when a member leaves. A short band agreement written for how you really work.
The first call
Bring the paper and the plan
Twenty free minutes is enough to tell you whether a deal is ordinary or odd.
Bring the contract or the term sheet, any emails that mention money, and a list of what you want from the deal. I'll mark what's standard, what's unusual and what to ask for, and tell you what a full review would cost before you decide.
What helps
The draft, or the terms in an email
Who else is on the song, the record or the project
What you have already signed or promised
The date someone wants an answer
Questions
Common questions from artists
I signed with a label already. Is it too late?
Often there is still room: a clause to clarify, a right to reclaim, or terms to push for on the next release. Bring the signed copy and we'll go through it.
Do I need to register my songs?
Registering a copyright with the Copyright Office gives you stronger tools if someone copies your work, and it's a modest filing. Registering with a performing rights organization is separate and is how writers get paid for performances.
Can you get me a record deal?
No. I'm a lawyer, not a manager or an agent, and I don't find or book work. I make sure the deals that come to you are fair and clear.
Music
Hear the deal out loud
Book twenty minutes and bring the draft.