Library deals includes 15% Adminstrative Charge?

[ericmakesmusic]

Question for those who have signed their songs with music libraries.

I just got offered a deal on a song I submitted to a TAXI listing.

The language in the synch licensing section says that we'll split any synch fees 50/50 AFTER they deduct a 15% administrative charge (not to exceed $300)

So, if they place a song and negotiate a $1000 fee, they'll take a administrative charge of $150 and then we'll split the remaining $850 which means, I would get $425.


Just want to know if anyone has seen similar language in their licensing agreements. Has anyone ever successfully negotiated this point?

[DesireInspires]

I guess the big question is does this library charge a sync fee for every placement?

Some libraries have language about splitting sync fees, but they mostly do blanket licenses. This means that whoever licenses the music pays the library one fee for access to some or all of the songs that the library has. The composers get no sync fee money for these placements.

I would ask the library this:

Do you charge sync fees for every placement?

What is the average sync fee charged?

How often do you pay out sync fees?

[andygabrys]

good points DI.

what I was thinking of is most contracts that don't stipulate a fixed administration charge say something to the effect of:


writer with receive 50% of net up front payments.


meaning after the library / publisher has deducted whatever they feel they spent on getting that placement. and it could amount to the same thing. that is the first contract in my short history that I have heard of that actually spelled out the administration charge.

[Casey H]

Hi Eric
I have seen this before (though don't love it) and 15% seems to be a common amount used in the industry.

It can't hurt to ask if the library is willing to reduce that percentage for you or set a better not to exceed amount. Some will make minor contract changes for composers, some won't.

The bottom line though is IF this is a quality library that makes placements with upfront sync fees, you may do well even though they take out that admin fee. With so many blanket deals out there today that pay no sync fee to the composer, a little less on your share of sync isn't the worst. Overall, their placement track record is the most important thing.

Good luck!
Casey

[ericmakesmusic]

DI, Andy, Casey,

Thanks so much for the insight!! That's really helpful. I would be clueless if it weren't for people that have already been through this process.

Much appreciated.