SEMA - Legal


		Is it legal?
		Here are a few of the most commonly asked Questions & Answers relating to the music and entertainment business. We'll be posting new FAQ's on a regular basis so please bookmark this page. If you have any legal questions please e-mail them to us. This page has been written with the help of David Franks of The Simkins Partnership Solicitors, London.

Previous Questions

Is it usual for a manager to continue receiving a commission on royalties after his contract with the band or recording artist has expired?

It is generally accepted that a manager will continue to receive commission after the management term on income from recordings made and songs written during the management term. However, there are numerous variations on what the rate of commission might be and for how long it may be paid.

Q.

Is it usual for a record producer to also get songwriting credits and a share of the publishing royalties?

A.

In theory a producer should only get credits and royalties if he is directly involved in the writing of the music or lyrics. However, it is not always easy to say exactly where composing ends and arranging begins, and a producer who is involved in working out arrangements may well push for recognition as a co-writer. This very often comes down to a matter of 'clout'.

The Simkins Partnership are solicitors specialising in entertainment and media law. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the answers provided to the above questions, certain assumptions as to the relevant facts have been made and they should only be used for general guidance.

For more detailed information, contact the Simkins Partnership web site direct at:
http://www.simkins.com

Most Recent Questions

Return to Menu Page