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Hi all,
So I am currently in the midst of a discussion with a music library/ publishing company and was seeking some insight on the contract side of things as this is
my first time.

The deal would involve me retaining 100% of the writers share and I would maintain 100% ownership of the master. They would own 100% of the publishing and the become the copyright holder. They also charge a 10% admin. fee/deal.

I would also receive 100% of the writers share of public performance income directly from my PRO which happens to be BMI

I guess my concern is the part where they become the owner of the copyright.

So my question is...Is this a fairly standard agreement? Any insight would be appreciated.

It's pretty standard for exclusive companies to take the copyright, and I'm assuming this company is exclusive. The rest of the deal points are all standard too. The 10% administrative fee is something that not all exclusive companies charge, but it's not uncommon either. I write music for a very great boutique library that keeps 10% of synchs as an admin fee, and splits the remaining 90% down the middle. Some people would balk at that, but not me. It's a very small price to pay to have top-notch representation and have a great company pitching your music to high-level shows.

My advice for these things is always to just sign it and see what happens.

~~Matt