Copyright Law: Primary legislation includes Copyright Act of 1976, Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA), Music Modernization Act of 2018, and Sound Recording Act. These laws govern the protection and exploitation of musical works and sound recordings.
Labor Laws: Includes Fair Labor Standards Act, state-specific labor laws, and child labor laws if the artist is a minor. These regulate working conditions, minimum compensation, and special protections for underage performers.
Contract Law: Encompasses state-specific contract laws, Statute of Frauds requirements, and common law principles of contract formation. These govern the basic validity and enforceability of the recording agreement.
Intellectual Property Laws: Covers trademark laws for artist name/brand protection, right of publicity laws, and state-specific IP protections. These protect the artist's brand and image rights beyond just their musical works.
Entertainment Industry Regulations: Including California's Seven-Year Rule, state-specific talent agency laws, and union regulations like SAG-AFTRA. These are industry-specific rules that affect artist contracts and representation.
Digital Distribution Laws: Encompasses Digital Performance Right in Sound Recordings Act and streaming rights regulations. These govern how music can be distributed and monetized through digital platforms.
Rights Management: Covers mechanical licensing requirements, performance rights considerations, and synchronization rights. These determine how the artist's work can be used and monetized across different formats.
Financial Regulations: Includes royalty payment requirements, tax implications, and banking regulations for payment processing. These govern how artists are compensated and how payments are handled.
Anti-Trust Laws: Including Sherman Act and Clayton Act provisions. These ensure fair competition and prevent monopolistic practices in the music industry.
International Rights: Covers international copyright conventions and foreign rights exploitation rules. These govern how the artist's work can be used and protected internationally.
