Music Law
What we do:
It is universally recognised that the music industry is a tricky place to operate, a fact perfectly captured in the famous misquote of Hunter S Thompson, “The music business is a cruel and shallow money trench, a long plastic hallway, where thieves and pimps run free and good men die like dogs. There is also a negative side.” It is therefore essential that those working in the industry have the best legal advice possible at all times. We can advise upon any and all aspects of the industry. The areas and contracts we advise upon include:
• Recording
• Publishing / songwriting
• Synchronisation
• Video
• Producer / production
• Management
• Partnership / band agreements
• Merchandising
• Sponsorship / endorsement
• Agency / touring
• Distribution
• Digital issues
• Alternative funding
Our clients include musicians, bands, solo artists, songwriters, producers, managers, record labels, music publishers, production companies, directors and writers.
We have a particular focus on the development of talent and are prepared to get involved with an artist at an early stage, utilising our industry experience and contacts to provide guidance and help build the core team around the artist. We take an active role in the development of a performer’s musical career and help negotiate the best deals to achieve their goals.
Contact: Craig Brookes
Email craig.brookes@tvedwards.com
About Craig Brookes
Craig has 13 years experience in the music industry having run a music management company since May 1998. He contributed to the careers of many artists in this time including mclusky (Too Pure), Future of the Left (4AD), Red Light Company (Columbia / Lavolta), Cranes (Instinct Records US), Hiding With Girls (Mighty Atom), FO Machete (Jam Records Australia), mo-ho-bish-o-pi (V2), Murry The Hump (Too Pure) and Sludgefeast (Must Destroy) among many others. In addition Craig set up the Record Label Fuzzbox which was distributed through Universal and enjoyed several notable successes.
In managing global, multi album careers and running an independent record label, Craig developed expert knowledge of all aspects of the industry. He helped to negotiate a multitude of contracts including Recording, Publishing, Endorsement, Merchandising and Synchronisation and gained an understanding of the practical and legal problems facing those within the industry.
Having spent many years appointing entertainment lawyers, in 2005 Craig decided to become one and began the extremely lengthy process of qualification. In August 2011 joined TV Edwards LLP on a consultancy basis to launch a specialist music and entertainment department. Because of his background Craig is as familiar with the back of a splitter van as he is with a label boardroom and as a result can deliver advice that is both accurate and practical.
