Urban Vine Media

Since the inception of record deals, labels and artisans trying to get their brand and name out there, the industry of entertainment has always been murky waters. For the last 50yrs we’ve seen all genres having its issue with contractual agreements of some order. Whether it’s incentives, bonuses, writing credits, production credits. You pick it, somewhere someone died over it or a judge litigated or arbitrate in it. We are using this post or blog as accountability and also learning experiences for all fellow creatives.

Why is it that the industry is what it is? Also let’s stress the difference between the purist and the white collars that sit behind the desk. The purist which is the artisan, the writer, sculptor or anyone with the genuine I.P. to put it together. Now the industry is the people who get to exploit and capitalize on such works. On paper should be match made in heaven but it’s not..

Business is business. That’s all based on time equity. The world of the “artsy fartsy” doesn’t see it that way. So there comes your first disconnect.
1) How is my time valued in the world of art?
2) Business/Capitalism = You can only sell goods or a service.
3) In the world of the artisan. Who is the concierge that values these things? Who was the person that said a song is 99 cents?

Now let’s start from the beginning. Most record deals came about during prohibition. When alcohol was illegal. Acts were brought into assist the underground sales of liquor. So it was always like a 360 regardless. Dance and sing while we sell some liquor and I give you some funds. So the marriage started there.

50 years later most contracts still look the same. All the mechanics and tech have changed but the contract stays the same. For most IP driven people they learn on the go and from their personal and business errors. The wave (seen now more often) is to surround yourself with your peoples. Meaning your attorney, your producer, your manager (have some people from day 1). Bring them to the table as part of the deal.

Now in Jamaica. Where the business of Entertainment has lacked the basic S.O.P. or support of government and private sector. Has now taken a shift within the last 4 yrs. The business of contracts, sync rights, showcases and more have become more prevalent. Guess it also has to start somewhere.
Point is Entertainment is exactly that. A product put out there to evoke an emotion. The business of Entertainment is a tricky uphill battle. Consisting of Capitalism, Market Share, Investors and everything a purist does not want to put up with.