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Contract Music Attorney Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... music, digital media, and hospitality industries on a wide range of transactional matters. Key ... contracts, and publishing agreements * Counsel clients on rights acquisition, clearance, and ...

Attorney

Chanhassen, MN · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Provide legal counsel on contracts, business transactions, partnerships, sponsorships, licensing ... Experience in entertainment, music, media, hospitality, tourism, or cultural institutions.

Provide legal counsel on contracts, business transactions, partnerships, sponsorships, licensing ... Experience in entertainment, music, media, hospitality, tourism, or cultural institutions.

Attorney

Chanhassen, MN · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Provide legal counsel on contracts, business transactions, partnerships, sponsorships, licensing ... Experience in entertainment, music, media, hospitality, tourism, or cultural institutions.

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Contract Music Attorney information

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$52K

$119.2K

$200K

How much do contract music attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract music attorney in the United States is $119,188.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,500.00 and $139,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Music Attorney, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Music Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, state bar admission, and a deep understanding of copyright, contract, and entertainment law. Familiarity with drafting and negotiating music industry contracts, using legal research databases (like Westlaw or LexisNexis), and staying updated on music licensing platforms is crucial. Excellent negotiation, attention to detail, and interpersonal communication skills set top performers apart. These skills ensure that clients' rights and interests are protected in complex and evolving music industry agreements.

What is a contract music attorney?

A contract music attorney is a legal professional who specializes in drafting, reviewing, and negotiating contracts within the music industry. Their primary role is to protect the interests of musicians, producers, songwriters, record labels, and others involved in music-related agreements such as recording contracts, publishing deals, licensing, and management agreements. They ensure that their clients fully understand the terms and legal implications of these contracts and help resolve any disputes that may arise. Having a contract music attorney is crucial for navigating the complex legal landscape of the music business and safeguarding your rights.

What is the difference between Contract Music Attorney vs Music Licensing Specialist?

AspectContract Music AttorneyMusic Licensing Specialist
CredentialsLaw degree, bar admission, legal certificationsMusic industry experience, licensing certifications
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, entertainment companies, private practiceRecord labels, media companies, licensing agencies
Employer & Industry UsageLegal advisory for contracts, negotiations, legal complianceManaging licensing deals, rights management, contract negotiations

While both roles involve music rights and contracts, a Contract Music Attorney primarily provides legal advice and handles contractual disputes, whereas a Music Licensing Specialist focuses on securing licenses and managing rights for commercial use. The attorney's role is more legal and advisory, often requiring a law degree, while the licensing specialist emphasizes industry knowledge and licensing processes.

What are some common challenges Contract Music Attorneys face when negotiating deals for artists or labels?

Contract Music Attorneys often navigate complex negotiations involving multiple stakeholders, such as artists, record labels, publishers, and managers. One common challenge is ensuring that the contract language accurately reflects their client’s interests while anticipating potential legal issues related to royalties, copyright, and intellectual property. Additionally, balancing industry standards with specific client needs and managing tight deadlines can make negotiations intricate. Effective communication and a strong understanding of current music industry trends are crucial to overcoming these obstacles.
More about Contract Music Attorney jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Music Attorney jobs? Cities with the most Contract Music Attorney job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Music Attorney jobs? The most popular types of Music Attorney jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Music Attorney jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Music Attorney jobs include:
Infographic showing various Contract Music Attorney job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $119,188 per year, or $57.3 per hour.
Executive, Business Affairs - Music

Executive, Business Affairs - Music

United Talent Agency LLC

New York, NY • On-site

$130K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

UTA seeks a Music Business Affairs Executive in our New York office or Nashville office. This position is crucial in structuring, reviewing, and negotiating a wide range of deals related to touring and live performances for our artists. The primary responsibilities of this role include reviewing and negotiating agreements for artist touring operations, acting as an innovative business affairs advisor with our music brand partnerships agents, and providing strategic support and guidance to UTA's music agents. This executive must be an organized, strategic and skilled practitioner who thrives in a high-volume practice that supports a large group of agents.
The salary range for this role is $130,000 to $250,000 commensurate with experience and skills.
What You Will Do
  • Negotiate, review, and draft a high volume of live performance agreements for a wide range of musical artists, including music festival, multi-date residency, and one-off performance agreements.
  • Negotiate agency-wide terms/conditions with international and domestic music talent buyers
  • Provide business affairs support on branded and endorsement deals for the agency's large music roster, including negotiating and commenting on brand partnership contracts, long-term endorsement agreements, as well as influencer and license agreements
  • Draft and respond to agency commission documents
  • Aggregate information from agent teams and accounting related to show/festival cancellations and bankruptcies affecting multiple clients
  • Assist with creating and enforcing company policies, protocols, and best practices

What You Will Need
  • JD degree required
  • Active New York Bar license (for New York Office) or Tennessee bar license (for Nashville office)
  • Approximately 7+ Years of experience as a music business affairs executive and/or music attorney working with relevant touring and brand agreements
  • A strong understanding of contract law, intellectual property law, and other relevant legal areas
  • Excellent business negotiation and deal-making skills
  • Ability to effectively communicate with clients, colleagues, and other industry professionals
  • Ability to identify and resolve complex legal and business issues
  • Strong understanding and experience with the music industry, including its various sectors and key players.
  • Excellent judgment

What You Will Get
  • The unique and exciting opportunity to work at one of a leading global entertainment companies
  • Access to the tools, leadership, and resources you will need to create and drive a center of excellence
  • The opportunity to do the best work of your career
  • Work in an inclusive and diverse company culture
  • Competitive programs to support your well-being
  • Experience working in a collaborative environment with room to grow

About UTA
UTA is a premier global talent agency built for the future of media and entertainment. The agency's diversified platform and best-in-class, client-first approach is innovative, collaborative, and positioned to lead in an evolving market. UTA represents the most celebrated artists, creatives, and brands, from icons and legends to next-generation talent. Its integrated capabilities span film and television, music, comedy, creators, sports, brands, news, publishing, speakers, theater, and more. It is based in Los Angeles with offices in the U.S., London, and Munich.
For more information: https://www.unitedtalent.com/about/
UTA and its Affiliated Companies are Equal Employment Opportunity employers and welcome all job seekers.
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