Free Music ContractsFree music contracts are hard to find. Here are few of the free music contracts I've been able to find. There are a number you can buy at a reasonable price. All are much cheaper than hiring a lawyer. This site is for learning purposes only, it does not provide legal advise in discussing any contracts or free legal contracts. To get legal advice you need to talk to a lawyer or attorney. Read GreatSongWriting.com disclaimer here. The best site I found is called ISP Group Inc as it contains more than 60 examples of various contracts in the music business. Its probably got most of what you want. A songwriters collaboration agreement can be found at Is My Song Good. You can register for free and fill in the blanks to print you own copy. You can also download an example PDF collaboration agreement as one of free music contracts at Songwriting-Software.com Here is a piece on music contracts and royalties defined by Ty Cohen Artists often wonder how their royalties are going to be computed when they sign music contracts. This is truly an important question because basically determines how much money is going to end up in their pockets. Recording contracts are meticulous and somewhat confusing so I will try to explain royalties to you as simple as possible. A band or artist’s royalties are totalled as a percentage of the “suggested retail list price” for the total number of records sold. A general percentage that most artists will find in their music business contracts is anywhere from 7% to 16%. This will obviously depend on who you are and what the expectations are for your record sales. Remember, royalties are the only place you are going to make your money but it is an important part of your contract. Royalty is expressed either as a percentage, a point or in escalations. Escalations suggest that you get a flat rate for up to a certain amount sold. Then your rate would go up if you sell over and above the first amount. Depending on the company you have the music contract with, you may find that your royalties could include a packaging deduction or not include one. If it does not include one then you may find that the royalty price is reduced and then your royalties will be calculated. This is why it is vital that you read and re-read your music business contract before you sign so you completely understand. Keep in mind that there may be a producer’s royalty that you are entitled to take care of from your own royalties. So, let’s say you had a royalty of 13% and the producer’s royalty was 2%, you would only receive 11%. Other than these industry standard deductions, you may see deductions for free goods that might go to wholesalers meaning your wouldn’t receive royalties for these records. Also, promotional records such as those sent to radio stations are not included as well. Keep in mind your royalty account can be charged for any item that is included in signed recording contracts. This is why it can’t be stressed enough that you need to understand every detail of what you sign because it may not be a dream come true after all. So, be careful, don’t be afraid to ask questions and don’t be afraid to seek the help of a professional. About the Author:Ty Cohen, the online music industry's most recognizable voice is the former owner of a successful independent record label, current owner of Platinum Millennium publishing and nation-wide music industry seminar speaker and panelist. He is also the author and creator of over 40 best-selling music business books, reports, courses, audio products and other music industry "How to" resources, that have helped tens of thousands of individuals like you to successfully find their way in the music business. Visit music contracts, recording contracts & music business contracts for more information. Again there aren't too many free music contracts to be found but there are some out there.
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