Distribution Contract — Editable Music Distribution Agreement

Define professional music distribution terms — with this fully editable Distribution Contract.

This comprehensive Distribution Contract provides a clear legal agreement between a Producer and Distributor for the exclusive distribution of one or more Master Recordings. It covers ownership warranties, rights granted, payment terms, delivery obligations, royalty reporting, and legal protections — making it an essential document for handling both physical and digital music distribution deals.

✅ Editable .DOC file included — fully customizable for your music distribution agreements.

What’s Covered:

🎼 Ownership warranties — Producer guarantees full ownership of the Masters and the right to license distribution
📦 Initial shipment — defines initial "drop shipment" quantities and future resupply obligations
🚛 Shipping terms — Producer pays inbound shipping; Distributor pays return shipping on unsold goods
📄 Formats — agreement applies to phonograph records, cassette tapes, digital audio tapes, CDs, and future formats
🌍 Exclusive distribution rights — Distributor granted sole rights to distribute, sell, and exploit the Master worldwide
🎙️ Name & likeness rights — Distributor may use Artists' names, likenesses, and photos for marketing and promotion
🛠️ International licensing — Distributor has right to license Master outside the U.S. and negotiate for currently unsecured territories
💵 Payment structure — fixed amount per record sold domestically; 50% of Distributor’s net receipts on international sales
🎚️ Mechanical licenses — Producer responsible for securing mechanical licenses and paying associated fees
🏷️ Label credit — record remains on Producer’s label; Distributor may add its own distributor credit
🚫 Exclusivity clause — Producer agrees not to allow these Artists to record the same material for other distributors during contract term
📈 Royalty reporting — statements computed semi-annually, payments due within 60 days
🔁 Right of first refusal — Distributor granted first right to distribute follow-up releases under same terms
⚖️ Governing law — defines applicable state and federal jurisdiction for legal enforcement of the agreement

Why Use This Contract:

• Clearly define distribution rights and financial terms
• Legally protect ownership of Masters and required clearances
• Provide clear shipping, delivery, and inventory obligations
• Secure transparency with royalty reporting and payment schedules
• Customize easily for physical and digital distribution deals in any territory

Perfect for:
Record Labels, Independent Artists, Distributors, Managers, Licensing Agents, Music Attorneys.

File format included:
✅ Fully editable .DOC (Word) file — ready to customize

Disclaimer: This template is provided for general informational and educational purposes. It is not legal advice. Please consult an attorney if you have questions about adapting it for your specific use case.