writing without contracts

Ok, I recently started corresponding with some reputable people in the music industry, who I shared some of my songs with. The guy told me that he was excited about what I could do and that he'd give me a call back, anyhow he did, and his assistant called me and set up a time to meet with a publisher with whom I showcased my work again.

I was told I would be contacted again at some point and that they would be sending me some music tracks to work on. A few months went by and recently I was contacted, was sent music tracks and told that they were working on a project for someone well known by the assistant. But when I mentioned it to the "boss" it had seemed as if she gave me the wrong info.

Anyhow I wrote to the track, went into the office showcased it and then was asked if I could come in to lay it down, which I did the next day. Now I'm feeling bad because its kind of funny how no monies or contract was mentioned in any of our 5 meetings.

I've recorded the song without copyright and now I feel like the most stupid person on earth. My question to you is did I just make one of the most biggest mistakes in life?


Hi,

There's an old saying that the music business is 50% music and 50% business. It's very exciting to be offered a chance with an reputable organization. But feeling fear and regret about what could be a good opportunity is not fun.

I'm not clear from your note if you are just working on writing the song and doing a demo, or are also working as the artist in the studio. Do you have a copy of the recording?


Many people before you have put the music before the business. Its not wrong to do that, but a balance approach on both aspects is always best. There is nothing wrong in any musical collaboration situation to ask about copyright or legal arrangements.

I suggest you call your main contact in the organization and politely ask to discuss the business and copyright arrangements between you and the organization. Tell them the arrangements haven't been discussed and you would like to be clear what the expectations are.

There may not be any bad intentions involved on their part, but you need to find out where you stand. Its also ok to ask if you can take some time to consider what they are offering if you need to. Once you know what they are offering, you can decide what to do and who to talk to.

If feel you are being taken advantage of or if you are offered a contract its always best to have it reviewed by a lawyer. In addition, if you know someone who is familiar with similar situations or contracts, ask them if there is anything out of the ordinary with what you are being offered.

There's and excellent book you can read called "Music Money and Success" written by lawyers Jeffrey and Todd Brabec. I bought a copy of their book after I saw them present at a music convention.

John Cowell
Webmaster
GreatSongwriting.com