Contracts with strings

[lulubelle]

HI all I just received a contract offer from a music library through Taxi and they want to re-name the song and keep 100% of the publishing which I think is greedy. Any one have any opinions on this.Thanks

[slideboardouts]

With libraries, renaming is fairly common, and so is keeping all of the publishing (you should still be keeping the writers share though). They're out there pitching your music, securing placements that you otherwise wouldn't have, assuming all of the risk associated with running a business ... they deserve the publishing in my opinion.-Steve

[mazz]

This company is "publishing" your song out to a (hopefully) much broader client base than you can access on your own. After all, you spent your life learning how to write music, they spent theirs learning how to sell it. Seems like a fair exchange, in my opinion.If you're not familiar with this type of agreement, it would be wise to consult with an attorney and learn more about the way the music business operates so you'll be more prepared when the next deal comes along.Congratulations on the contract!!Mazz

[Casey H]

Hi LuluThis is very standard and the library is not being greedy. Publishing, with respect to performance royalties from ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, etc. is 50% of total. Each dollar of performance royalty is split between the "Writer's share" and the "Publisher's share". You will get the Writer's share.The library makes their living by splitting this with you. Without income, they couldn't be in business and hence get your music placed in film/TV.Usually in agreements like this, any up-front license fees are also split 50/50. The fact that the song gets re-titled means that they really don't "OWN" your publishing. They are allowed to collect monies per the contract only on their own usage of the song and no other.This thread will help. There is a great explanation by matto (re-posted by me) on how the money is paid for film/TV placements. http://taxi.proboards27.com/index.cgi?b ... d=10480HTH Casey

[lulubelle]

Thanks everyone for your replies. I appreciate the collective wisdom of the forum.Lisa

[slotter]

I just signed a similar contract, don't worry, it's very standard and the fact you keep your original titles is a good thing. The only thing you won't be able to do is sign one of those tunes to an EXCLUSIVE deal with someone else.CongratulationsD