JPF Home Page Forums General Messages Mentor Questions Forum need advice please

Ive been talking to a producer who likes my lyrics. He wants to make a demo. He says it costs only 35 bucks. He wants me to sign up with BMI under him.
I guess the question I have is this... once I make a demo whats next?
Do I own the rights to the lyrics only? Does that mean Im a co-writer?
What kind of paper work/contract should I receive?
What are the important questions I should be asking him?

Thanks, I really appreciate the feedback.

So it sounds like he wants to collaborate. He shouldn't charge you for that. People collaborate freely here on JPF.

Why BMI? You can register with ASCAP if you prefer. Doesn't have to be the same PRO as his.

Best, John

If I pay a company for a demo, is that a one time fee to them. They retain no rights? Then the producer pushes that demo? If he does mean collaborate, that means he will get a demo made, push the demo to the industry and then we will be 50/50 cowriters? What royalties does a producer typically receive?
Thanks, I guess Im a little confused on what a producer actually does.

I am NOT a mentor -- but I started answering before I saw what forum this was in!!!

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A demo costs a lot more than $35 -- maybe that is the copyright fee. Yes, you would be the co-writer with whoever did the music.

Questions to ask him:
1.) Why $35? A demo can cost $300-500+ -- what is the $35 for?
2.) What kind of contract do you want me to sign?
3.) Who will be on the copyright credits?
4.) What other artists/writers has he had under publishing?

Thanks, that helps..
I'll ask why $35..

Definition of mentor: experienced adviser and supporter: somebody, usually older and more experienced, who advises and guides a younger, less experienced person.

I think you'd fall into that definition Kevin. Either way, good, honest advice comes from many sources.

I don't consider myself a mentor, but when I see a question I have some experience with, I feel it's considerate to share my experience.

John

If he wants the publishing rights to your song, then he needs to pay for the demo. If you pay for the demo, then you own the song and all rights to it.