Building a comprehensive contract is essential for music artist managers

How to build out a comprehensive contract as a music artist manager

1. Consult with a legal professional

When building a comprehensive contract as a music artist manager, consulting with a legal professional specialising in the music industry is essential. They can provide valuable guidance and ensure your contract complies with all relevant laws and regulations.

A legal professional will help you understand the specific clauses and provisions that must be included in the contract to protect your artist's interests. They will also assist in negotiating and finalising the terms with the artists and other relevant parties.

2. Clearly define the manager-artist relationship

The contract should clearly define the manager-artist relationship, including the roles and responsibilities of each party. This involves specifying the scope of the manager's duties, such as booking performances, securing record deals, managing finances, and overseeing marketing and promotions.

It's essential to outline the duration of the contract, any exclusivity arrangements, and the termination process. Clearly defining these aspects will help prevent misunderstandings and ensure a smooth working relationship between the manager and the artist. Additionally, consider including provisions for what happens after termination, such as continuing royalties or ongoing financial obligations. Addressing these elements in the contract can provide clarity and protection for both parties involved, setting the stage for a successful manager-artist partnership.

3. Financial terms and compensation

Include a section in the contract outlining the manager's financial terms and compensation structure. This should cover details such as the percentage of the artist's earnings that the manager is entitled to, how expenses will be handled, and any additional fees or commissions.

Clearly define the payment schedule, including when and how the manager will receive their compensation. It's also essential to address any specific financial arrangements, such as advances or bonuses, and include provisions for auditing and accountability.

4. Performance obligations and expectations

To avoid ambiguity, addressing the manager's and artist's performance obligations and expectations is essential. This includes outlining the specific services the manager is expected to provide, such as booking gigs, coordinating rehearsals, and strategising marketing campaigns.

Establishing performance benchmarks and goals ensures both parties are aligned on the desired outcomes. Doing so will help evaluate the manager's effectiveness and provide a basis for potential renegotiations or terminations.

5. Intellectual property rights 

Include clauses in the contract that address intellectual property and rights ownership. This should cover aspects like copyrights, trademarks, and licensing agreements. Clearly outline who owns the rights to the artist's music, brand, and other creative works, and specify how they can be used and monetised.

Additionally, it's essential to address any collaboration agreements, sample clearances, and ownership rights for any derivative works. This will protect both the artist's and the manager's interests and prevent any legal disputes in the future.

6. Confidentiality and non-disclosure

Include a confidentiality and non-disclosure clause in the contract to protect the artist's privacy and sensitive information. This ensures that the manager is legally bound to keep all confidential information regarding the artist, their finances, and career plans confidential. This is particularly important in an industry where leaks and breaches of trust can have serious consequences.

7. Dispute resolution and termination

No contract is complete without addressing dispute resolution mechanisms and termination processes. Include a section that outlines how any disputes or disagreements will be resolved, whether through mediation, arbitration, or litigation.

It's also crucial to include termination clauses that specify the circumstances in which either party can terminate the contract. Clearly outline the notice period required for termination and any severance pay or post-termination obligations provisions.

In Conclusion

Building a comprehensive contract as a music artist manager is essential for protecting your artists' interests. By consulting with a legal professional, clearly defining the manager-artist relationship, and addressing financial terms, performance obligations, intellectual property rights, confidentiality, and dispute resolution, you can ensure a solid foundation for a successful working relationship. Remember, a well-crafted contract is the backbone of a manager-artist partnership, providing clarity and protection for all parties involved.