Recording Contracts in Music Law: What Artists Need to Know
“Average recording contract: Artist gets 15-20% royalty. Label gets 80-85%. But with the right negotiation, you can get 50% or more—here’s how.” A recording contract is the single most important document a music artist will ever sign. It determines who owns your master recordings, how much money you make from every stream, and whether your career launches or stalls in legal limbo. It governs the relationship between artist and record label, covering funding, distribution, and ownership. This guide covers all major record deal types: traditional major label deals, indie label agreements, distribution deals, and the controversial 360 deal. Most artists sign bad deals because they focus on the advance instead of the long-term rights. By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly what to look for, what to negotiate, and how to avoid career-destroying clauses. We’ll break down royalty rates, recoupment math, red flags, and the specific terms you need to fight for to protect your music career.