Welcome to what will hopefully become a regular column in OSHRadio Magazine!  This column will address a variety of topics related to the music industry and is designed to be helpful to bands, solo artists, and musicians in general.  While I may speak in terms of “your band”, many of the concepts discussed will be equally applicable to all musicians regardless of their status as band members, soloists, etc.

Consider this humorous yet insightful quote from none other than Paul Stanley of KISS.

"It's very easy in this business to find people who are willing to put their arm around you and tell you how great you are. Unfortunately, their other hand is in your pocket."

With some proper planning and assistance from a trustworthy manager and entertainment lawyer experienced  in the music industry, you may be able to protect yourself from the “other hand” of the music business.  First and foremost, you must recognize, accept and embrace the fact that your band IS A BUSINESS.  So, treat it like one!  An important point to remember, and this will certainly be a repeating theme, is that whenever possible, put agreements in writing.  A writing will help to clarify the essential terms of any agreement and primarily becomes useful when disputes arise between the parties to the agreement.  Think of a written contract as a way to avoid disputes as well as a tool for resolving disputes that may arise. 

Nearly every topic that you will see in future editions of this column will involve putting  something in writing.  Future topics will include Copyright Basics, Protecting Your Band Name, Business Entity Formation, Intra-Band Agreements, Management Contracts, Lawyers, Performance & Touring Contracts, Recording Contracts, Music Publishing, Merchandising, Artwork, Negotiation, Taxes, and Litigation.

But for now, even if you choose to go it alone in this business, please remember that when it comes to your band’s business, “put it in writing!”  Until next time, ROCK ON!

 

Read Part 2 | Part 3