Music management contract : what to check before signing.
A management contract entrusts a manager with the representation and career development of an artist, in exchange for a commission. This guide details its essential clauses and negotiation points.
Summary
- A management contract entrusts a manager with the representation of an artist, in exchange for a commission on the generated income.
- It can be exclusive (one manager) or non-exclusive (multiple representatives in parallel).
- Duration, specific missions of the manager, commission rate, and copyright are the four points to check as a priority.
What is a management contract ?
A music management contract formalizes the collaboration between an artist and a manager (or a management agency). The manager represents the artist, develops their career, and negotiates on their behalf with labels, producers, and partners — in exchange for a commission on the income generated from this work.
Exclusive management or non-exclusive ?
| Type of Agreement | What it implies | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|
| Exclusive management | A single manager represents the artist across all their activities | Developing artists seeking a dedicated team |
| Non-exclusive management | The artist can work with multiple representatives simultaneously | Occasional collaborations or specialized by market |
Subject of the contract — album, EP, singles, performance.
- Duration of the contract — engagement period, with or without renewal clause.
- Manager's missions — negotiation, career development, coordination with labels and producers, specifically defined to avoid grey areas.
- Commission rate — percentage taken from income, and exact scope (all income or only that generated by the manager).
- Copyright — the manager holds no rights over the works; the contract must explicitly confirm this.
- Sunset clause — commission maintained for a limited time after the end of the contract, on deals negotiated during its term.
- To avoid — early termination in case of breach or disagreement.
The ecosystem MusiLaw.
Four complementary tools, useful at each stage of your career with a manager.
TuneLockr
Protect and date your musical creations before entrusting your career to a manager.
Discover TuneLockr ↗ Before signingVoiceLockr
Create a reference and certified vocal passport to secure your artistic identity before any negotiation.
Discover VoiceLockr ↗ During the searchFeedzback
Pitch your music and get professional feedback, useful for convincing a manager or refining your project.
Discover Feedzback ↗ Once in placeBeathoven
Promote your music project to the right audiences, in addition to your manager's efforts.
Discover Beathoven ↗Contracts and resources related.
To verify and delve deeper.
Before signing.
What is a music management contract?
An agreement entrusting a manager with the representation and career development of an artist, in exchange for a commission on the generated income.
Should I choose exclusive or non-exclusive management?
Exclusive management is suitable for artists seeking complete and coordinated support. Non-exclusive management allows working with multiple representatives based on markets or projects.
What is the usual commission rate for a manager?
It varies depending on the markets and the assigned tasks—the key point is to clarify which income the commission applies to, not just its percentage.
Does the manager hold rights to my works?
No. The manager's role is to represent and develop the artist's career, not to hold copyright—this must be explicitly confirmed in the contract.
Does this guide replace a lawyer?
No. It helps you understand the stakes before negotiating. A complex negotiation or one with significant financial stakes may require suitable legal advice.
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