Recording Contracts Can Be Confusing By: Ty Cohen Over the next few minutes, we are going to review three important areas that you might find covered in recording contracts. Recording contracts can be quite overwhelming, especially if you have had no experience with them. You will find that they are lengthy and extremely detailed. They cover many areas and these are just to name a few, the word record, term and option. The actual word “record” in the music business has many meanings in relation to music contracts. It covers any audio recording device such as CDs, cassettes, vinyl records and any audiovisual devices like laser discs and videocassettes. Fortunately, all new technology that comes out on the market should be included under this definition as well. Then you are going to have your options. Options are defined as rights granted to the company to buy your albums and produce within a certain timeframe. Options, as with most aspects of recording contracts are irreversible from your side of the deal. But unfortunately, the record label is not required to use them. This basically keeps you with this company for as long as they want you to be there and truthfully that is only as long as you are successful. If you are successful then the company will continue to exercise those options. If you are unsuccessful, the label will then allow the music business contract to expire. Lastly, you have your term of contract which refers to the length. This is not typically measured in years in the industry. Instead, term is measured by album production periods. This way, the contract remains valid until the final album is completed. Let’s say your commitment album is the first one in your recording contract and then you have four to five additional options and then your final. This means you will be with the label until the last record is complete, if they are satisfied with your work. If for some reason the company isn’t satisfied, then your music contract could be up after the first album. This seems unfortunate for the artist but business is business, especially when is comes to music business contracts and the music biz. Also, keep in mind that some contracts require records to be recorded and released within certain time frames or you could be released from your music contract for being late. Recording contracts are some artist’s dream but always keep in mind that the music biz requires hard work and absolute dedication. About the Author: Ty Cohen, the online music industry's most recognizable voice is the former owner of a successful independent record label, current owner of Platinum Millennium publishing and nation-wide music industry seminar speaker and panelist. He is also the author and creator of over 40 best-selling music business books, reports, courses, audio products and other music industry "How to" resources, that have helped tens of thousands of individuals like you to successfully find their way in the music business. Visit http://www.musiccontracts101.com/cmd.php?Clk=2416843 for more information on music contracts, recording contracts & music business contracts.

What Does A&R Really Want? By: Ty Cohen So, you are looking for a killer music contract but you can’t seem to figure out what A&R Reps really want. What do I have to have to get signed to a music contract? There are unique qualities that these guys are looking for and the more of them you acquire the better chances of being offered recording contracts. 1.Enthusiasm/Zest for Music – It isn’t hard to miss these types of people. They truly love what they do and there is no doubt about it. 2. Lyrics/Songs – Are they an amazing songwriter or have an amazing person writing the songs? 3. Live Performance – Do your shows sell-out? Does your merchandise sell-out? Do your fans leave craving more? Live shows are a clincher for A&R. 4. That true “Star Quality” – Do you or someone in that band just have that true unmistakable star quality or in A&R’s terms, are you marketable? 5. Working as a group – Do you and your band just click, just work? Does it seem like everyone wants the same thing? A&R is truly looking for a united group mentality. 6. Hunger/Desire – Or better know as the true unwavering desire to make it. Are they willing to do anything and everything to make it in the music industry and get a music contract? 7. Professional/Business Savvy – Does your ban really have its stuff together? Are you professional or an immature group of kids who have no clue except they want a recording contract? Do you have a firm understanding of the music biz or will you need your hand held? 8. Members – They may take a look at each member of the band or at the past of each artist. Are there any problem causers? Are drugs a problem? What might prevent them from working for the music business contract? 9. Instinct of the A&R Rep – This is the most crucial part and maybe even the most indefinable part. This has to do with just good old gut instinct. Is your band really worthy of recording contracts and music contracts? Do they possess every quality my company is looking for? You know, it takes a lot of money to offer recording contracts and properly promote bands and artists. These guys want to get it right because that is their job. Try to encompass all of the above qualities and hopefully a recording contract will be right around the corner for you or your band. About the Author: Ty Cohen, the online music industry's most recognizable voice is the former owner of a successful independent record label, current owner of Platinum Millennium publishing and nation-wide music industry seminar speaker and panelist. He is also the author and creator of over 40 best-selling music business books, reports, courses, audio products and other music industry "How to" resources, that have helped tens of thousands of individuals like you to successfully find their way in the music business. Visit http://www.musiccontracts101.com/cmd.php?Clk=2417382/ for more information on music contracts, recording contracts & music business contracts.

Distribute Your Music Worldwide for a Low, Flat-Fee!

Sign Up for a free TuneCore account, save 30% on first distribution

Sell Your Music, Not Your Soul