Count on me to be against the grain.
I think we can talk for hours about this, and chances are that that will happen too.
But what I’d do is make a list. An orientation into circumstances unknown.
If you want to market your music you enter a business model. Then it’s very important to think business-like.
There will be contracts involved.
Be sure to never sign a contract without a renewal date. John Fogerty (Credence Clearwater) was too eager signing with Fantasy. As a result he worked some 50 years for the cat’s arse without the possibility to open up his contract.
Be sure that is clear who owns the rights.
Who is earning what and how is the amount due calculated.
Is that before taxes. Or after all costs are deducted. Chances are you pay for the private plane of your manager.
Who owns the rights to pictures, videos, merchandise etc.
Do you have the right to say: this touring schedule is too busy, we need to slow down.
As songwriting is very difficult or impossible for most people while touring or travelling, do you have periods in which you can relax and write.
As long as you’re not really earning much, you will be left alone. As soon as money is involved, you have many friends.
Paul McC’s rights were bought by Michael Jackson and Paul had to wait for the time MJ got into trouble before he could buy the rights back.
If there are ways in your state to prevent hostile take overs, I would look into that.
When you push the start button, do you have your second LP/or whatever format prepared? In case your first is very successful , you won’t have time for the second as half the world want something from you.
Have you made preparations for a second you can be proud of if the first is a mega (not a meager) success.
Look what happened to Procol Harum. A mega success of your first is intimidating. P.H. Never overcame the shock.
Sandy Denny and Grace Slick each wrote two epic songs before entering the arena. And both got nasty problems trying to equal those songs.
In short, for you to go about in a more businesslike manner with your music, you need to fully understand what you are going into. And consider if the pro’s and con’s are weighing up.
Or in balance. Or controllable. You know.....
You will be up against much intern and external pressure.
All the things that you need to start an ordinary business you will need as a musician too.
Plus a serious professional and public liability insurance with a solid insurance company.
And a logo too.
Ahhhhh....., dooooooooooon’t start me talking.
And of course I wish you a lot of luck!
Kind regards, Gus
And of course I forgot to mention you Bill!
@Bill from November Sound When I scan the above posts, I see many heartfelt stories about what makes people feel good.
Now, you know what makes me feel good (Smileysmileysmiley)
So did I come to the wrong conclusions about the kind of input you seek?