Master Recording Agreement for the United Kingdom

Master Recording Agreement Template for England and Wales

A Master Recording Agreement is a legally binding contract governed by the laws of England and Wales that establishes the terms and conditions under which an artist will create and deliver recorded music to a record label. The agreement covers rights acquisition, recording obligations, delivery schedules, royalty arrangements, and ownership of the master recordings. It typically includes provisions for digital and physical distribution, licensing rights, and territory restrictions.

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What is a Master Recording Agreement?

The Master Recording Agreement serves as the foundational document governing the relationship between recording artists and record labels in England and Wales. This agreement is essential when an artist commits to creating and delivering recorded music for a label, establishing clear terms for ownership, compensation, and obligations. It addresses crucial aspects such as copyright assignment, recording budgets, release commitments, and revenue sharing arrangements. The document is particularly important in the modern digital age where distribution methods and revenue streams are constantly evolving.

What sections should be included in a Master Recording Agreement?

1. Parties: Identification of the record company and artist(s), including full legal names and addresses

2. Background: Context of the agreement and relationship between parties, including artist's status and intention to record

3. Definitions: Key terms used throughout the agreement including Album, Masters, Territory, Net Receipts, etc.

4. Grant of Rights: Scope of rights being transferred to the record company, including copyright assignments and licenses

5. Recording Obligations: Artist's obligations regarding recording delivery, minimum commitment, and recording standards

6. Term: Duration of the agreement, including initial period and option periods

7. Royalties: Payment terms, royalty rates, accounting periods, and audit rights

8. Warranties and Representations: Legal promises made by both parties regarding rights, capacity, and obligations

9. Termination: Circumstances under which the agreement can be terminated and consequences

10. General Provisions: Standard legal clauses including notices, entire agreement, and governing law

What sections are optional to include in a Master Recording Agreement?

1. 360 Rights: Additional rights beyond recording, including merchandising, touring, and sponsorship rights

2. Publishing Rights: Rights related to musical compositions and publishing administration

3. International Rights: Territory-specific provisions and international distribution terms

4. Digital Distribution: Specific terms for digital exploitation and streaming platforms

5. Marketing and Promotion: Obligations regarding promotion, music videos, and social media

What schedules should be included in a Master Recording Agreement?

1. Schedule 1 - Recording Schedule: Detailed timeline for recording deliverables and release commitments

2. Schedule 2 - Royalty Calculations: Detailed breakdown of royalty rates, including digital, physical, and ancillary exploitation

3. Schedule 3 - Permitted Deductions: List of authorized deductions from royalties and recoupable expenses

4. Schedule 4 - Technical Specifications: Required technical standards for recordings and delivery format requirements

5. Schedule 5 - Minimum Commitment: Detailed specifications of minimum recording obligations and quality standards

Authors

Alex Denne

Head of Growth (Open Source Law) @ Genie AI | 3 x UCL-Certified in Contract Law & Drafting | 4+ Years Managing 1M+ Legal Documents | Serial Founder & Legal AI Author

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Free to use

Relevant legal definitions

Clauses

Relevant Industries

Music Industry
Entertainment
Digital Media
Broadcasting

Relevant Teams

Legal
A&R
Business Affairs
Finance
Production

Relevant Roles

A&R Manager
Music Producer
Legal Counsel
Artist Manager
Business Affairs Director

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What is a Master Recording Agreement?

What sections should be included in a Master Recording Agreement?

What sections are optional to include in a Master Recording Agreement?

What schedules should be included in a Master Recording Agreement?

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