Composer w/Multiple Lyricists Interest
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Composer w/Multiple Lyricists Interest
Hi Everyone..I'm a new TAXI member and this is my 1st post.. I am primarily a composer and am in search of lyricists.. I've met a few different lyricists through Musicians Junction that have shown interest in collaborating with me.. 2 of the lyricists are interested in one song in particular.. they both are talented lyricists and I respect them.. but that poses a small dilemma for me.One of the writers has already shared their lyrics with me and I like.. the other is working on it and I like the direction they're taking.. I believe I could write with both of these people but can only use one for this particular song.. should I let them compete? that doesn't sit well with me.. I don't want to alienate either person.. if we don't hook up on this song then perhaps another.. and of course I don't want to waste anyone's time.. I need some experienced advice on this subject.Cheers..Bobby
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Re: Composer w/Multiple Lyricists Interest
I would never shop for more than one composer for a lyric, and I would expect the same respect in return. My vote would be... chose the one who's lyric most fits what you have now... and, if you like the other writer, ask them to work on a different song with you. (If the two lyrics are totally unique, there's no reason why you couldn't work on writing new music for the second lyric.)
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Re: Composer w/Multiple Lyricists Interest
Welcome to the forums, Bobby!. I know this'll sound a little devious, but do the two know about each other? I don't see a reason to make a decision until a deal for the song is on the table. I'd probably jes' try to continue to work with both.
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Re: Composer w/Multiple Lyricists Interest
Thanks Hummingbird: I see your point.. what I did was send out inquiries via Musicians Junction to several lyricists.. then posted some of my songs for all to hear.. some showed interest and got back to me.. I think there's potential with each.. the song in question is one of my better efforts as of late.. there's more in my tank but this would be a good collaboration song to get rolling with.. perhaps I should consider what each brings along with their lyrics.. such as contacts etc. Thanks Mojobone: that is a bit devious.. I don't believe either know of the other.. but there may be a way of coming clean with both about the situation without losing their interest.. I favor honesty.. and this isn't intended to be a contest.. fact is: until I sign a "Collaboration Agreement" for this song with one or the other what's theirs is theirs and what's mine is mine.. BTW: is it standard to make the music and lyrics exclusive to one another in the agreement?Thanks all for the input.. really leaning towards being up front and being cordial and considerate.
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Re: Composer w/Multiple Lyricists Interest
May 17, 2009, 12:13pm, trebor99 wrote: BTW: is it standard to make the music and lyrics exclusive to one another in the agreement?Yes. One song, one copyright. If the two parts can be separated, you can include a reversion clause - 3 to 5 years, if nothing happens with the song, you each can get your respective contribution back.
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Re: Composer w/Multiple Lyricists Interest
Thanks Vikki.. good info to know.
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Re: Composer w/Multiple Lyricists Interest
damn good point on the copyright vicky,oh, hi Bobby, welcome!it's hard enough writing a song with a co-writer, whether you are the composer of the music or the lyricist. as has been said, i'd recommend one co-writer per song....i know there are big timers who have 5 writers, 10? but if you're any good, and the lyricist is any good, 50/50 is clean as a whistle.great luck here and elsewhere,warren
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Re: Composer w/Multiple Lyricists Interest
I have NO actual experience with this, but from just an ethical OPINION kind of perspective, perhaps just coming out and telling both of them what has gone on to date and asking both of THEM how they would like to handle it might clear it up for you really quickly.I think that communication should be very open. Everyone is different. Perhaps both of them would be willing to write something up and say, "Just let me know if you like mine." Perhaps neither would. Trickier if one or the other does, but at least you know where everyone stands. Then you can come up with SOMETHING acceptable. (It might even give you an insight into their personalities, which may sway your feelings about whom you want to work with.)You seem like a real straight shooter. Compliments on that. Hope that all works out.
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Re: Composer w/Multiple Lyricists Interest
thanks everyone for the input.. all good suggestions and advice.at this point I think I have decided which lyricist to go with.. still getting things worked out.. and in the process my composition will most likely change to the point that the original version will still be available for the other lyricist.. in any event glad to have joined TAXI and glad to have joined the TAXI Community Forum.. Thanks again.Cheers..Bobby
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