The Secret To Advancing Your Music Career

This is something to consider. You/your band is doing really well and you have some extra cash to blow and you want to use it to help further your career - what should you spend it on? 

A. Spend it on advertising

B. Spend it going on tour

C. Hire a publicist

D. Hire a lawyer

E. Hire a college radio promoter 

And the correct answer is…

D. Hire a lawyer

Are you surprised by the answer? You shouldn’t be. Truth is, in the world of entertainment, the attorney is king in many ways. They are the silent force behind every deal and advancement. They are the music industry’s silent gatekeeper and its best kept secret (and probably safe to say, best weapon).

An entertainment attorney wants their client to succeed - it means more money for them. It's not just reviewing paperwork, negotiating contracts, and suing people (if needed). They are well connected within the industry and can easily make career-advancing connections for their clients. They are also aware of many of the things that are happening within the industry. If a client of theirs has been offered a deal, they’re able and willing to solicit other offers for their client so that their client can get the best deal. They also help you re-negotiate for better terms if you’ve proven yourself to be a commodity with your work. The entertainment attorney is also one of the main go-to persons within the industry for career guidance and advice. Sometimes, more so than the manager.

Below is a story from Minh Chau, an artist, producer and entrepreneur, about  how key an entertianment attorney really is.

I was at an ASCAP event where there were several great songwriters/producers on the panels (it’s obvious I’m an ASCAP member).  I remember one particular panel, during which “the secret” was leaked. The hit songwriter (I can’t remember his name) said that he didn’t have a manager and that you didn’t really need one. He went on to say that the key person to his career success was his attorney. He said, “the lawyer is king in this business.” When I heard this, I thought, “You can’t be serious.” But when another hit songwriter/producer backed his statement a little later on during the discussion, I had to pay attention. I haven’t forgotten it since. I went back and did more research and what he said was true. Why hadn’t anyone told me about this? All the countless reading I’ve done, videos I’ve watched, and God-knows-what. But, I was happy. At least now I know. And now, you know.


It may not be a route for everybody, but if you're business oriented when it comes to your band and want to see it succeed, it's definitely something to consider.


Click here for the original article