Recording / Label Agreement
The core deal between an artist and a record label — ownership, advances, and royalty rates.
When it's used
When an artist signs to a label — from small indie deals to major label contracts.
Key terms it should cover
- Term (number of albums, option periods)
- Advance amount and recoupment terms
- Royalty rate and calculation basis
- Ownership of masters and rights-reversion
- Territory and exclusivity
- Marketing/recording budget commitments
- Termination and rights-reversion conditions
Who signs
The artist and the label.
How Mercury handles this
High-stakes and highly negotiated — Mercury's role here is the Plain-English Contract Checker (analysis and red-flag detection), not contract generation. Always work with an entertainment lawyer.
Not legal advice. These are educational summaries and templated agreements. For high-value or unusual deals, always consult a qualified entertainment lawyer.