Publisher-Royalty Sharing Contract — Editable Music Publishing Agreement

Define clear royalty splits and publishing rights with this professional Publisher-Royalty Sharing Contract.

This fully editable Publisher-Royalty Sharing Contract helps publishers, composers, and collaborators establish transparent agreements around revenue splits and ownership of a musical composition. Avoid disputes and ensure everyone gets paid fairly — on clear terms.

✅ Editable .DOCX file included — fully customizable for your deals and catalog.

What’s Covered:

🎵 Defines allowable expense deductions before calculating net publishing receipts
💵 50/50 royalty split after deductions — built-in fairness
📝 Extraordinary expense rules — cannot be charged without written consent
© Copyright registration terms — registered in First Party's name
📄 Proper crediting on sheet music, printed materials, and record labels
🎙️ Performance rights society (BMI/ASCAP) splits — ensures proper reporting
🎚️ Licensing authority — only First Party can issue licenses/sub-pub rights
📈 Semi-annual royalty statement and payment schedule (every 6 months)
⚖️ Full governing law and venue section to protect both parties

Why Use This Contract:

• Clearly define royalty splits and credit terms for your music catalog
• Protect yourself and your publishing partners from misunderstandings
• Ensure correct and timely royalty reporting & payment
• Establish who controls licensing and sub-publication rights
• Customize easily for each collaboration or catalog deal

Perfect for:
Independent publishers, composers, co-writers, labels with publishing arms, artist managers.

File format included:
✅ Fully editable .DOCX (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.