Music Law Archives - HighTower Solicitors & Advocates

March 5, 2026

UNDERSTANDING RETENTION CLAUSES AND WHAT THEY MEAN FOR ARTISTES AND PUBLISHERS

Retention clauses in publishing agreements determine how long a publisher continues to control songs after a contract ends. Understanding this clause is essential for artists and songwriters who want to manage their catalogues and future opportunities effectively.

March 5, 2026

5 LEGAL THINGS TO DO BEFORE YOU RELEASE MUSIC THIS YEAR

Many artists focus on the sound of a song but overlook the structure behind it. Before releasing music this year, here are five important legal steps to protect your work, your revenue, and your collaborations.

March 5, 2026

RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL: A CONTRACT CLAUSE EVERY ARTISTE SHOULD UNDERSTAND

Recording contracts often contain clauses that can significantly shape an artiste’s career. One of the most important is the Right of First Refusal (ROFR) — a provision that allows a current label to match offers from other companies before the artiste can accept them. Understanding how this clause works is essential before signing any agreement.

February 27, 2026

UNDERSTANDING PRIVATE COPYING LEVIES IN NIGERIA: WHERE THE MONEY COMES FROM AND WHY IT MATTERS

Private copying levies are statutory fees designed to compensate creators when copyrighted works are privately copied. This article explains how the system works in Nigeria and why it matters.

February 26, 2026

WHO OWNS YOUR MUSIC? WHY FAME DOESN’T GUARANTEE CONTROL

Success does not automatically mean ownership. Many creatives do not control the work that made them famous because contracts — not popularity — determine rights. This article explains why ownership planning matters from the beginning.