Music Studio Recording Agreement for Unsigned Artists

by Arts Law Centre of Australia

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18 pages

A sample agreement to be used when an unsigned artist is negotiating a booking with a recording studio. It can be used as a starting point for drafting an agreement or as a checklist to compare to the terms offered by the studio.

Unsigned artists are increasingly using independent recording studios to make master recordings. However, unlike a signed artist who has their record company make the arrangements, unsigned artists have to negotiate directly with the recording studio. It is essential to shop around and check out the deals before committing yourself. For example, some studios will provide only a basic recording venue and equipment and you have to organise all the musicians and production staff yourself. Other studios provide everything and may also offer packaging and pressing.

Once you've decided on a studio it is important to be clear about what teh arrangements are- particularly who will own copyright in the final product. Before you proceed it is highly recommended you get legal advice and have a written agreement, even if only in simple letter form.

These notes outline the issues that an unsigned artist should consider when negotiating with a recording studio for a booking. Included is a sample agreement in the form of a letter which can be used as a starting point for drafting your own agreement, or as a checklist you can compare to the terms offered by the studio.