RECORD DEALS
Before you sign, read it with us.
Clause-by-clause review and negotiation of record, 360, and distribution deals for Ontario artists.
THE DIRECT ANSWER
What is a record deal?
A record deal is the contract between a recording artist and a label (or distributor) that governs how music is released, marketed, and monetized. Modern deals range from full exclusive record contracts to 360 deals (which include non-recording income like touring and merchandise), distribution deals, and label services arrangements. Each has very different economics.
WHY IT MATTERS
The most consequential contract most artists will ever sign.
A record deal is the most consequential contract most artists will ever sign, and the one most likely to be signed under pressure. The advance looks exciting. The commitments underneath it are where the career is shaped — or given away.
The terms that matter most are not always the ones that feel urgent. Album commitments, exclusivity period, territory, ownership of the masters, recoupment mechanics, controlled composition rates, marketing commitments, release commitments, reversion clauses, and what happens when the relationship ends — these are the clauses we spend the most time on, because they decide what the next five to fifteen years look like.
We review deals clause by clause, flag the three to five terms most likely to hurt, give you redlines you can send back, and sit on calls with the label's legal team if needed. We also handle label services, distribution, and short-form partner deals that are often pitched as simpler alternatives.
HOW WE SUPPORT YOU
01
Review exclusive record, 360, label services, and distribution deals clause by clause.
02
Redline and negotiate recoupment, advance, territory, and exclusivity terms.
03
Protect master ownership and reversion rights.
04
Negotiate marketing, release, and touring commitments.
05
Structure producer and featured artist agreements inside album projects.
06
Audit label accountings and chase recoupable expense discrepancies.
FAQ
Common questions about record deals.
Should I sign a 360 deal?
What's recoupment?
Can I negotiate if the label says it's a standard deal?
What happens if the label drops me?
Do I need a lawyer if I have a manager and an agent?
How much does a review cost?
RELATED SERVICES
Work we often pair with record deals.
Music Publishing Rights Lawyer Toronto
Publishing deals, administration agreements, and SOCAN and CMRRA registrations.
Artist Management Contracts Lawyer Toronto
Management agreements, commission structures, and clean exits for Ontario artists.
Music Licensing Lawyer Toronto
Sync licensing, master use, and rights clearances for artists and producers.