In an industry that is undergoing breathtaking changes, many old model labels have been slow to change.  Industry observers argue that labels are no longer necessary and that artists should go completely DIY.  Indeed, more and more artists are choosing to the DIY model.

At Exemplar, we work with progressive labels and artists who understand the new normal in the music industry.  Our music label Customers realize that the music industry can and should be a profitable business relationship for all parties involved.  More and more artists are looking for the support of progressive labels to help with marketing, promotion and distribution of their records.  We’re pleased to structure agreements that facilitate those needs and other internal and external needs of progressive labels, including:

 
•  Label/Artist Agreements

 
•  Licensing Agreements, including Master Uses for samples, TV, film, etc.

 
•  Employment/Independent Contractor Agreements

 
•  Entity Formation and accompanying Corporate Documents

 
•  Third Party Affiliate Agreements such as External Distribution Deals & Online Licensing Deals

 
•  Marketing/PR Company Arrangements

 
•  Tour Sponsorship Deals

 
•  E-commerce documents (Terms, Privacy, Copyright Disclaimers, etc)

Beyond agreements, we often engage in long-term relationships with entertainment companies through our Portal and Flexpertise services, working with our label Customers on a variety of needs, including copyright and licensing matters, digital distribution and legalities of online presence (privacy, minors, collection of information, Safe Harbor Provisions for infringing content) and corporate structuring as our Customers expand.  These arrangements help us better understand our music label Customers, and foster and promote a successful relationship with our team of business and law experts.

Have more specific questions?  Please contact our entertainment team

Producers are often the lone wolves of the music industry; lending their expertise to a variety of projects, but never quite stopping or settling down.  Each relationship they have, whether it’s with a label, a band, or an individual artist, is unique.

Likewise, each producer’s individual wants and needs differ:

 
• Should it be a flat fee or royalty points?
 
• Will you retain some copyright ownership in the work, or are you doing work-for-hire arrangements?
 
• How often will you receive royalties and from whom?
 
• Do you have other arrangements with third parties (i.e. a label) that may influence the terms you can negotiate with other artists and companies?

As attorneys and business professionals experienced in producer arrangements, we work with you to develop contracts that properly reflect each unique arrangement you have with an artist, label or band.  Need something a little more broad?

We’re happy to listen to the goals for your career and craft any agreement that you can use multiple times.

Have more specific questions? Please contact our entertainment team

It seems even in this age of the DIY artist, Managers are still an indispensable resource for most artists.  Managers handle all the complex logistical issues – booking, tours, creating new opportunities for the artist – so that artist can do what they do best; make music!  The relationship you and an artist share is one of your most important professional relationship, and should be based on transparency and trust.  At Exemplar, we focus on crafting clear, customized arrangements that reflect the unique relationship that you share with your artist.  Some questions that often arise are:

 
•  On what matters will you consult with your artist before moving forward?  Which decisions lie on your discretion?

 
•  How will gross receipts be calculated?

 
•  How will expenses be handled?

 
•  How long will the initial term be?  How will options be handled?

 
•  What will your sunset clause entail?

Considering these issues and more, our team can craft clear agreements that properly reflect the intentions and interests of the parties.  Our Portal™ retainer program allows our music manager customers to strategize with a team of experts on any number of business and legal matters.  A Portal relationship also empowers our manager customers with the knowledge they need to handle a variety of business and legal matters for their artists, which may include copyright matters (i.e. licensing agreements, registration, etc), trademark and branding, and a variety of contractual agreements with third parties.

Have more specific questions? Please contact our entertainment team

To the artists, we at Exemplar extend our congratulations: you have persevered, worked hard, and now you’ve made it.  Making a viable living as an artist is a true accomplishment!  But with your success comes a new set of challenges – licensing your music, protecting your image, complex contracts… at times it may seem overwhelming. 

At Exemplar, we work with established artists who are making significant strides in their careers and are looking for a long-term relationship with a team of dependable, trusted advisors.  We work in tandem with you to craft and review agreements, negotiate deals on your behalf with publishing companies, labels, tour sponsors, etc.  Through our Portal™ retainer program, you’ll also have a team of experts on your side to strategize, consult and advance your career in a way that makes good business and legal sense.  Having the Exemplar team in your court frees up your time so you can record, tour, and generally be a star.