Songwriter Agreements - Definitions

Question 1

Co-Publishing Agreement

Answer 1

The songwriter shares ownership of the songs with the publisher, splitting both rights and revenue (typically 50/50).

Question 2

Exclusive Songwriter Agreement

Answer 2

The songwriter commits to writing exclusively for a single publisher for a specified period.
(Initial 12 month period)
(3-4 Following options of 12 months)

Question 3

Purchase (Music Catalog Acquisition)

Answer 3

A full transfer of ownership rights from the original rights holder to the buyer.

Question 4

Administration Agreement

Answer 4

The songwriter or rights owner retains ownership of their songs.
Publisher handles administrative tasks (10-20% commission)

Question 5

Sub-Publishing Agreement

Answer 5

(Publisher-to-Publisher)
A publisher assigns rights in specific regions or countries to another publisher (sub-publisher) to manage a catalog internationally.

Question 6

Ownership

Answer 6

All songs written during the contract are owned or controlled by the publisher.

Question 7

Advances

Answer 7

Songwriters typically receive advances and royalties, with the publisher owning a share of future earnings.

Question 8

Reversion Clause

Answer 8

Specifically states what happens to the catalog of songs if the relationship with the publisher ends.
(Song not being used for X period of time;
Song not being used commercially)

Question 9

Grant of Rights

Answer 9

Defines what rights the songwriter is granting. (Exclusive / Non-Exclusive rights to reproduce, distribute, or perform)

Question 10

Ownership

Answer 10

Specifies who owns the copyrights to the songs.
(Whether the songwriter retains full ownership or transfers a percentage of rights to the other party)

Question 11

Publishing Splits

Answer 11

Defines how control and income will be divided.
(Control: Publisher has more controlling power)
(Income: Usually 50-50 Songwriter-Producer)

Question 12

Compensation / Royalties

Answer 12

Details how the songwriter will be paid.
(Advances; Royalties; Percentage of licensing, streaming, and other profitable endeavors)

Question 13

Term

Answer 13

Duration of the agreement.
(Specific time period; Specific number of songs; Specific number of projects)

Question 14

Warranties

Answer 14

Songwriter guaranties that their work is original and not infringing on others’ rights.

Question 14

Exclusivity

Answer 14

States whether the songwriter must write songs exclusively for the other party or if they may work with others.

Question 15

Audit Rights

Answer 15

Allows songwriter to view the other party’s financial records to ensure proper payment of royalties.

Question 15

Idemnification

Answer 15

Indemnification clause protects the nonbinded party if legal issues arise.

Question 15

Termination

Answer 15

Specifies conditions under which the contract may be terminated.