Song Writer Contract for the United Kingdom

Song Writer Contract Template for England and Wales

A Songwriter Contract is a legally binding agreement under English and Welsh law that establishes the terms and conditions between a songwriter and typically a music publisher or record label. The contract governs the creation, ownership, and exploitation of musical compositions, including provisions for royalties, rights management, and creative obligations. It includes specific protections under the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 and incorporates industry-standard practices for music publishing and licensing.

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What is a Song Writer Contract?

The Song Writer Contract is essential in the modern music industry for protecting both creative and commercial interests. This agreement, governed by English and Welsh law, is typically used when a songwriter enters into a professional relationship with a publisher or record label for the creation and exploitation of musical works. It covers crucial elements such as copyright assignment or licensing, royalty structures, delivery requirements, and creative control. The contract ensures compliance with the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 while addressing industry-specific needs like co-writing arrangements and publishing rights management.

What sections should be included in a Song Writer Contract?

1. Parties: Identification of contracting parties (songwriter and publisher/company)

2. Background: Context of the agreement and relationship between parties

3. Definitions: Key terms used throughout the agreement including Musical Works, Publishing Rights, Territories

4. Grant of Rights: Specific rights being transferred or licensed, including copyright assignment or license terms

5. Compensation: Payment terms, royalties, advances, and calculation methods

6. Delivery Requirements: Specifications for song delivery, format, and acceptance criteria

7. Term and Termination: Duration of agreement and circumstances for termination

8. Warranties and Representations: Guarantees regarding ownership, originality, and non-infringement of third-party rights

What sections are optional to include in a Song Writer Contract?

1. Minimum Commitment: Specifies minimum number of songs to be delivered during the term - used for exclusive songwriting agreements

2. Co-Writing Provisions: Terms governing collaboration with other songwriters, including rights split and approvals

3. Publishing Company Assignment: Terms for assigning rights to a publishing company when songwriter has their own publishing entity

4. Moral Rights: Specific provisions regarding attribution and integrity rights under CDPA 1988

What schedules should be included in a Song Writer Contract?

1. Schedule of Existing Works: Comprehensive list of songs already written and covered by the agreement

2. Royalty Calculations: Detailed breakdown of royalty percentages, payment calculations, and deductions

3. Approved Co-Writers: List of pre-approved collaboration partners and terms of collaboration

4. Territory Restrictions: Detailed list of territories where rights are granted or restricted

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

Jurisdiction

England and Wales

Publisher

Genie AI

Document Type

Music Agreement

Cost

Free to use
Relevant legal definitions
Clauses
Industries

Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988: Primary legislation governing intellectual property rights in musical works and lyrics, including moral rights, duration of copyright protection, and provisions for assignment and licensing of rights

Contracts (Rights of Third Parties) Act 1999: Legislation governing how third parties may enforce terms of a contract, relevant for music publishing and administration agreements

Equality Act 2010: Legislation ensuring fair treatment and prevention of discrimination in contractual relationships

Employment Rights Act 1996: Relevant if the songwriter could be considered an employee, covering basic employment rights and status considerations

Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR: Legislation governing the handling of personal data and privacy requirements in contractual relationships

Common Law Principles: Fundamental legal principles covering contract formation, consideration, and capacity to contract under English law

PRS and MCPS Requirements: Industry-specific rules and requirements from performing rights and mechanical rights societies

Competition Law: Legal framework governing restrictive covenants and anti-competitive provisions in contracts

Teams

Employer, Employee, Start Date, Job Title, Department, Location, Probationary Period, Notice Period, Salary, Overtime, Vacation Pay, Statutory Holidays, Benefits, Bonus, Expenses, Working Hours, Rest Breaks,  Leaves of Absence, Confidentiality, Intellectual Property, Non-Solicitation, Non-Competition, Code of Conduct, Termination,  Severance Pay, Governing Law, Entire Agreemen

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