TAXI.com

so, I have some old recordings of public domain songs from 1960's. The company want to buy the master recording, and pay a small amount for the Master Recordings. So far so good, but the contract is long and seems overly complicated. I would retain the writer's rights (BMI) as an arranger/singer, but it appears that they also want 100% of the sync rights ( there is no publishing for a public domain, but don't arrangements get copyright protection and compulsory license fees?). The contract also seems to cover the use of the recording in what ever form (Cds as well as moving image) forever. In other words, the only thing I would maintain is the writers rights.
Is that the new "norm"?
Thanks for you comments

Hi Bax3

From the limited information you've given, it sounds like you're not getting much out of this deal. You're only getting a "small amount" for the master recordings. As the songs are in the public domain, I'm guessing that the value of your recordings will be for synch placements. I would try and negotiate so that that you get 50% of any synch fees.

Cheers