Royalties for lyrics only - pipTalk Forums

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Munda
Member Elite

since 1999-10-08

Posts 3544
The Hague, The Netherlands

0 posted 2006-08-06 01:17 PM

Is there anyone here at Passions who knows where I can find information on royalties for lyricists?

I've tried google, but all I get is information for composing AND writing the lyrics of the song.
As being the author of the lyrics of a song, I know I am entitled to royalties, but I can't find any information on royalties for lyrics only.

Is there anyone who can shine some light in my darkness? I'd be greatful forever, and that is a long time!

Thanks,
Munda

Ron

Administrator

Member Rara Avis

since 1999-05-19

Posts 8669
Michigan, US

1 posted 2006-08-06 01:50 PM

quote:
As being the author of the lyrics of a song, I know I am entitled to royalties ...

Not necessarily, Munda. What does your contract say? Royalties, after all, are something associated with contract law, not with copyright. That's probably why you couldn't find anything specific in your search. At any rate, your contract should tell you how much and (just as importantly) when and how royalties are due.

If you don't have a contract? Clearly, local laws will prevail, but my best guess is that you'll be entitled to damages, not royalties. Your next stop should be to see a lawyer.

Here's a couple links that might be helpful:

answers.com (Especially the section from the Legal Encyclopedia)

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Munda
Member Elite

since 1999-10-08

Posts 3544
The Hague, The Netherlands

2 posted 2006-08-06 02:10 PM

Thanks Ron! I understand the difference now.

At the moment I am about to give permission to a musician to set one of my poems to music for a contest. She ensured me the copyright will remain mine at all times and is willing to pay 10-15 % of the prize money, should she win. I guess I should include those terms in the letter I am sending her tomorrow and ask for a return copy signed by her too?

After the contest she would like to submit the music to a misic site, where it can be downloaded against money. Again a percentage would go my way through paypal, or something similar.

If I understand you correctly, I should have a legal contract drawn up, apart from the permission granted to use the poem for the contest.

And I tought the publishing world was complicated! LOL

Mysteria

Member Laureate

since 2001-03-07

Posts 18328
British Columbia, Canada

3 posted 2006-08-07 12:00 PM

Munda,

Elizabeth Santos, is a published lyricist, perhaps contact her for a bit of help too? Her words have been recorded in Europe by some artists there, and I am sure she may be able to help too.

A contract in writing is a very good thing.

Good for you Munda.

Essorant
Member Elite

since 2002-08-10

Posts 4769
Regina, Saskatchewan; Canada

4 posted 2006-08-07 12:49 PM

If she honours and does your artwork jusice, the honour and the justice are the royalties.

Munda
Member Elite

since 1999-10-08

Posts 3544
The Hague, The Netherlands

5 posted 2006-08-08 12:04 PM

Thanks Sharon. I will definitely do that!

Thanks Essorant for taking the time to reply.

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