The exclusive recording agreement remains the centerpiece contract of most music artists' careers. However, by getting signed, not only are the probabilities of a sustained career with a record company less than at the beginning of this century, but the terms of the recording agreement also have evolved since then to become less artist-friendly. Declining music sales, coupled with the reduction of the purchase price of music altogether, justifies scrutinizing record deals more than ever.
PAUL BEZILLA is a shareholder at Lommen Abdo Law Firm. For over 25 years, he has provided legal services for an array of high profile individuals and companies in the entertainment industry. His practice encompasses music, film, television, IP, technology, software and licensing. He has been a featured speaker at numerous entertainment industry seminars, frequently lectured on entertainment law topics, and taught courses in music business law.
DINA LaPOLT is an entertainment attorney at LaPolt Law, P.C. in Los Angeles, California. LaPolt Law is a boutique transactional entertainment law firm that specializes in representing clients in the music, film, television, merchandising and book publishing industries.
DAVID LESSOFF is currently Vice President, Business Affairs at New West Records, one of the country's most respected and successful independent record labels. David also runs his own legal practice based in Los Angeles, California, which provides legal services in connection with all aspects of the entertainment industry including music, film, Internet and television related legal matters.
