HydrogenAudio

Music Discussion => General Music Discussion => Topic started by: blanknix on 2010-09-16 00:31:33

Title: My first record deal
Post by: blanknix on 2010-09-16 00:31:33
Hey everyone, I'm looking for some advice from producers who have signed records.

The label has sent me the contract for some tracks and the shakedown is this:
1. They own all the performance and production rights in exclusivity.
2. They own the copyright forever.
3. I will have no legal power to change any of the above/terminate the agreement.

In return here are my royalty details:
Quote
Company Shall credit Producer with a basic royalty of sixteen percent (16%) of the dealer wholesale price of the records derived solely from the Masters, Which records are sold by Company through normal physical retail channels in the United States, and not returned; twenty five percent (25%) of net receipts for digital sales; and fifty percent (50%) of net receipts for third party licenses and synchronizations. All royalties hereunder shall be computed, adjusted and reduced pursuant to the terms of Company’s standard royalty provisions.


This all seems fine to me, though I'm not thrilled about signing away the copyright since ultimately after I'm established enough as a working artist I'd like to give my tracks away for free but it's my understanding as an unknown artist I have basically no bargaining position (correct me if I'm wrong on that).

Cheers for any tips mates!