Legal Question in Entertainment Law in New York
I'm in the process of starting my own indie record label with my friend who is a rapper. When I register the business I plan to own 60 percent and he will own 40 percent. He will also be a solo act on the label's roster as well. So will I have to sign him to a normal recording contract or will we be able to split the record sales of his own album 60%-40% ? By him being an artist that will put him in the spot light of the glit and glamour but I will be behind closed doors running the company and keeping him up dated whats going on on the business aspect. I will be more of an executive producer in which I will oversee full production of the artist's albums including his. Since I will own 60% and he will own 40% we plan on splitting everything 60-40 in my favor but I don't know if we can do that when it comes to the sales of his own album that he puts out.
2 Answers from Attorneys
You should really talk to a lawyer who specializes in the music business. If you need a referral, let me know.
You will not accomplish anything without the expertise of a competent attorney. Your needs must be properly addressed in a valid contract.with the facts as you described it requires proper representation of both parties.