August 30, 2018 In Blog, Producers

Benefits of Establishing a Loan-Out Company for a Music Artist

Most professional musicians, artists, or other entertainers contract their services through a so-called “Loan-Out Company.” Nevertheless, I have discovered a lot of confusion amongst these same professionals about why they established a Loan-Out Company in…

READ MORE
August 15, 2018 In Blog, Producers

What Are Moral Rights?

In the music industry, at least in the US, most producer agreements, session musician agreements, and other similar work-for-hire situations will contain language generally stating that you “hereby irrevocably and unconditionally waive all Moral Rights…

READ MORE
April 23, 2018 In Blog, Producers

Entertainment Law Mythbusters: Your Questions about Legally Sampling Music Answered

The rules around sampling music have been mystifying musicians since the enactment of the Copyright Act of 1976. While copyright laws regarding how to clear a sample often seem straightforward when discussed in the abstract,…

READ MORE
March 19, 2018 In Blog, Producers

Key Issues to Address in Your Collaboration Agreement

I’m sure you’ve heard of the expression “Two heads are better than one. Three better than two,” and so on. This is most likely the case when it comes to creative works. For example in…

READ MORE
January 16, 2018 In Blog, Producers

IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS BEHIND BUYING & SELLING BEATS ONLINE

DISCLAIMER: This article is not intended as legal advice, as an attorney specializing in the field should be consulted. Let’s face it, we’re living in a digital age, whether we want to accept it or…

READ MORE
January 3, 2018 In Blog, Producers

What Happens When Your Band Breaks Up?: Why You Need a Band Agreement and Major Issues to Address

Artists do not like discussing contracts, period, and one of the harder ones to address is the band member contract because it can feel like it acknowledges a certain level of distrust or at least…

READ MORE
December 1, 2017 In Blog, Producers

Can You Trademark a Hashtag?

Recently, hashtags have become important tools for driving online interaction between entertainers and consumers on social media. The law is still being developed in this area, but the increased use of hashtags has nevertheless gotten…

READ MORE
October 18, 2017 In Blog, Producers

How to Start a Record Label 101 (Part 1)

These days, the barriers to entry for starting a record label are practically nothing. Many labels have been formed by someone saying “Ok, I have a record label.” Ultimately, signing up for Soundcloud and creating…

READ MORE
August 18, 2017 In Blog, Producers

Can You Be an Artist’s Agent and Manager at the Same Time? (A Look at CA and NY Talent Agency Law)

For an up-and-coming artist, the first person they bring onto the team is usually a friend who believes in the music, and will do his or her best to help the artist however he or…

READ MORE
July 31, 2017 In Blog, Producers

IP Clearance in Motion Pictures, Videos and Other Audio-Visual Works

The film industry has expanded well beyond traditional studios, as modern technology provides anyone with a phone, the ability to shoot and post videos online for online public consumption. At the same time, new financing…

READ MORE