This Music Studio Recording Agreement should be used when an unsigned artist is negotiating a booking with a recording studio. It can be used as a starting point for drafting an agreement or as a checklist to compare to the terms offered by the studio.
Unsigned artists are increasingly using independent recording studios to make master recordings. However, unlike a signed artist who has this/her record company make the arrangements with the studio, unsigned artists have to negotiate directly with the recording studio. It is essential to shop around and check out the deals before committing yourself. For example, some studios will provide only a basic recording venue and equipment and you have to organise all the musicians and production staff yourself. Other studios provide everything and may also offer packaging and pressing.
Once you’ve decided on a studio it is important to be clear about what the rights and obligations of the parties are – in particular who will own copyright in the final product.
