How To Make It Into The Music Industry – Part 3

TAKE ADVICE ONLY FROM PEOPLE WHO HAVE TALKED THE TALK AND WALKED THE WALK

Well as I’m sure you are aware that everyone has an opinion on business, the music business is no different, and we all think we know the best way forward, but do we? It’s all well and good you listen to advise from people, but it is far better to listen to someone that has been there and done it, and with a proven record of success. This has the benefit that mistakes they may have made you can avoid these by talking to them first, and deciding if what they say will affect you in any way. But as a rule, the best business comes from the experience of building your career, learning from your label, record company, or publisher, and by your own mistakes, remember opinions are only regarded at this stage as feedback.

DON’T USE JUST ANY ATTORNEY FOR LEGAL ADVICE

Now that negotiation is underway with the label or record company, or publishing company wanting to offer you a contract you so much desire, it’s time to get an attorney or lawyer to act on your behalf. It should be pointed out that when all is said and done, the negotiation usual tend to be left to the attorney or lawyer to sort out the more delicate details, the musician is never present at this stage. The musician’s attorney or lawyer and the label or record company, or publisher’s attorney or lawyer will meet, talk over the phone, email, text, or use fax to make their offer and counter offer until they reach an acceptable conclusion. So my advice to you would be to use someone that specialises in music matters with a proven record in this business is a must and absolute necessity for any serious musician who wishes to fight the good fight in the legal arena.

EDUCATE YOURSELF LEARN ABOUT THE MUSIC BUSINESS

You’ve all heard musician moaning that they have been ripped off by their label, record companies, or publishing company, but is it the case? Well, it would greatly benefit you if you were to educate yourself about the music business before diving into the contracts etc. Understanding common issues can be of great benefit, but in most case, the information you require is not far away. There are dozens if not hundreds of books that can be obtained quite easily which will cover topics such as copyrights, contracts, standard business, a business of music, the choices are endless. You will also find that you may have a seminar or workshop near you. You also have a lot of information on the internet that can be very helpful to you and your career.