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Band Partnership Agreement Template
What Is a Band Partnership Agreement?
A Band Partnership Agreement is a legal contract signed by band members that explains how the band operates and how the decisions regarding the band are to be made. This is, perhaps, the most important document a group of musicians can compose to ensure things in the band run smoothly with the progression of their career.
Alternate Name:
- Band Partnership Contract.
Whether your band is well-established or you have just founded one, you need a standard Band Partnership Agreement to clarify responsibilities, simplify decision-making, and prevent conflicts and disagreements. Without a contract in place, any one member of the band is able to start their own band using the existing band name and exploiting the songs another band member has worked hard to write and record, so a proper agreement negotiated and signed by the band members is crucial for the band going forward.
If you need a free Band Partnership Agreement template, you may download one below or create a more personalized document using our online form builder.
How to Create a Band Partnership Agreement?
Follow these steps to draft a Band Partnership Agreement template:
- Name the band members and write down their addresses. You may add a bandleader in the introduction of the agreement.
- Define the purpose of the partnership as clearly as possible.
- Decide how long the term of partnership will be. You may sign the document with a term of three years, and once the agreement expires, the band members are free to revisit the contract and add new terms and conditions.
- Negotiate the rights of the band name - who will own it and under what conditions can the band name be used. Do not forget to register the name for trademark protection - the name of the band carries the reputation and public recognition so it is essential to determine who controls the rights to the name.
- Provide the financial details of the partnership - who will contribute money and when, who will pay for the equipment and instruments, and other expenses. You may describe in full detail which instruments and equipment are owned by individuals and by the band as a partnership.
- Include the copyright clause. You may keep the songwriting copyright separate from the partnership property if you wish.
- Discuss contributions and commitments. List the responsibilities of writing, recording, performing, touring, marketing, business management, creative management, PR, etc. Determine who chooses what gigs to play and how to store and transport the equipment.
- Negotiate income splits - will composers share the publishing income with non-composers, when are earnings split, and what will happen with the income if the band breaks up. Usually, bands agree to split the income equally.
- Add a clause about new and former members - how much money is owed to a former band member regarding royalties and other income and which member has the authority to add a member.
- Select the right legal structure for your band - a sole proprietor, limited liability company, partnership, corporation, or non-profit organization.
- Discuss the potential dissolution of the band - who will own and use the songs, property, name, and future profits.
- Sign and date the document. Each band member must get a copy of the contract.
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