First real production.... the question is..

Posted: Wed Nov 28, 2007 12:31 pm

Here's the scenario,

I was asked to produce a song - I didn't have anything to do with the recording of the music, but I arranged to get the artist on the song. I did no writing with the artist... but i will be the one to mix the track.

The song is to be put on the artists upcoming LP, my question is, what rights do i have and how do i get a piece of this action?

Posted: Wed Nov 28, 2007 2:39 pm

I'm not an expert, especially in Jamaican law.

However, the way you get a "piece of this action" is to charge for your mixing services, and then use the mix as part of your resume to get more mixing gigs.

I'm not sure what you mean by "asked to produce a song" and what that entailed. It is obvious from your post that no legal document outlining the distribution of profit was signed (or you would know what your "piece of the action" was). Producers usually get a cut, as often they are the ones funding projects, but that should all be made in writing and signed by all involved parties.

Some of the knowledgeable people here should step up and shed some more light on this, or at least point you to some reading material. I would recommend trying to find a lawyer that specializes in music in your area and pay him his rate to ask him questions and educate yourself if you plan on trying to make money as a producer. My understanding of this area of music production is that you WILL need a lawyer anyways, so meeting a few would not be a bad idea anyway.

Posted: Thu Nov 29, 2007 9:43 am

I'll leave the legal stuff for others who know more about it, but I'd make sure your name - at least - gets on the packaging in the credits area. If you're looking for more clients to produce, this is where they'll find you, or at least hear your work. If the record is a hit, it may be worth more than cash to you, it could make you a lot of "Street-cred".

These days, a "piece of the action" isn't very much in dollars, but who knows, if the thing is a hit, at least your name will be associated with the proper track.

Posted: Thu Nov 29, 2007 9:49 am

Get a lawyer, but even if they say you get nothing in terms of points on any contract, try and get your name somewhere.

It goes a long way to have your name in print somewhere. It's better to do that then take the quick dollar. The name on the credits can give you a lifetime of work and gives you credibility.

Posted: Fri Jan 04, 2008 1:16 am

I too am Jamaican and have started a business in the USA. As a newcomer to the business I have many similar questions.

The Jamaican practices are often different from the general rule, so it is a challenge to try to do it the 'right way' where the 'right way' isn't the norm.

I just joined hte group to learn more about the music business... Look forward to interacting with all you!!!!

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