An Examination of Contractual Relationships Between Recording Companies and Artists in Nigeria

This book traces the history of recording companies or record labels in Nigeria and how they were established and operated from the early 1970s till date. It examines the laws governing contracts in Nigeria and the principles applicable to commercial contracts in relation to recording contract. The book establishes a record company as a legal entity in accordance to the Companies and Allied Matters Act (2020) after the consideration of the criteria stipulated in the legislation, as well as the various components and functions of a recording company.

This book analyzed whether or not a recording contract is a contract of service or a contract for service using several tests to determine the question. The different types of recording and publishing contracts were also examined. It is important to know that at the root of the relationship between recording companies and artists is the production and distribution of songs to which copyright governs; as such, it is important for both parties to decide on who owns the copyright in the song and how royalties are to be shared between the parties. There are also certain terms that must be included in any type of recording contract for it to be beneficial to the parties such as the duration of the contract, termination of the contract, advance, royalties etc.

The book proffers solution to the constant breakdown of recording contracts between recording companies and artists. It enumerates the process of termination of recording contracts as well as the mechanisms for the resolution of disputes that arise from recording contracts. The author provides certain landmark cases in the entertainment industry in Nigeria.