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Music law Advice-Management Deals
Management Deals
Many bands and musicians after toiling away on the gig circuit are likely to get their first taste of success by being offered a management deal. Having booked your own gigs and public appearances you are naturally going to be more than happy to get such a deal. There is no doubt that having management and PR is a stepping stone to a record deal. But it is very important to be aware of the consequences of being tied to a management deal.
Most management deals will involve the Management Company having sole and exclusive rights to exploit you as a band/artist. This means that only they can book your gigs and arrange promotional events. This may suit some acts but if you have been getting your own gigs then you may have a deal with a local venue that you are happy with but will no longer be able to conduct as your managers will decide where and when you play. It might be easy to see this as a progression but you may lose local support if you are seen to turn your back on the places that gave you your first break.
So it is very important to discuss these issues before you sign anything or even look at a contract. You must find out as much as you can about potential managers- How long they have been in business? What type of artists do they already have? How have they helped them so far? (getting in touch with artists on their books is vital). Once you are satisfied that they might be right for you then you can look at the deal.
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Elliot Chalmers
Independent Music Law Adviser
www.musiclawadvice.co.uk
myspace.com/musiclawadvice
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