A music specialist firm, Bray & Krais is sought out by British artists for its expertise in both contentious and non-contentious matters. The team negotiates contracts, protects client’s IP rights, and aids with investments within the music industry sector, and the group fields a strong bench of music experts who have a wealth of expertise advising a myriad of music clients. Richard Bray is well-known for his specialism in handling music contracts, brand deals, and licensing agreements, while Mark Krais advises on commercial, contract, and IP issues for leading artists. Simon Dixon has advised key clients on corporate music issues, such as catalogue acquisitions and licensing matters. Simon Goodbody is a litigation expert, Jonny Petch, centres his practice on a mix of corporate and commercial issues, and newly promoted partner Dorothea Thompson focuses on branding and trade marks. Joseph Davis has also recently been elevated to the partnership and is a go-to for equity investments, catalogue sales, shareholder agreements, and corporate brand partnerships.
Media: Music in London
Bray & Krais
Responsables de la pratique:
Mark Krais; Richard Bray; Simon Dixon; Simon Goodbody; Jonny Petch; Dorothea Thompson; Joseph Davis
Autres avocats clés:
Andrew Forbes; Kelvin Nana
Les références
‘Very proficient with corporate matters. Experts in commercial music deals.’
‘Joseph Davis was superb. Friendly, educated and efficient.’
‘Strong expertise in all areas of music business with an eye for creative solutions. I have worked with them across a diverse range of creative rights issues ranging from standard artist recording and publishing deals to complex branding, merchandising and live contracts.’
Principaux clients
Ed Sheeran
Ronan Keating
Boyzone
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Ed Sheeran on his investment in Ipswich Town Football Club.
- Advised Ronan Keating on contractual arrangements for Sky documentary, ‘Boyzone: No Matter What’.
Clintons
Clintons is well-known for its expertise across contentious and non-contentious music issues, assisting leading international and domestic artists. The team has been active in musical theatre rights and music catalogue acquisitions, and on the non-contentious team, Andrew Myers supports music artists with re-negotiations and restructurings, while practice head Berkeley Edwards represents British artists, songwriters, and producers in high-profile negotiations. International artists are looked after by music specialist Nicky Stein, and the firm’s music litigation team is led by Andrew Sharland, who has represented major artists and bands in litigation against labels and managers. He also represents multinational music and media companies and indie US and UK artists in contentious issues. Karim Bouzidi is another key member of the disputes team, alongside Blake Wilner, who uses his technical music expertise to advise on high profile disputes, and Patrick Lawrence, who is a strong civil litigator. The firm also fields a music rights acquisition team that is headed up by Charles Gerada.
Responsables de la pratique:
Berkeley Edwards; Andrew Sharland; Charles Gerada
Autres avocats clés:
Patrick Lawrence; Blake Wilner; Andrew Myers; Nicky Stein; Victoria Wood; Alastair Kenwood; Karim Bouzidi
Les références
‘Clintons’s music team is tenacious and user-friendly, which makes them particularly suited to representing artists. The individuals in the team have a genuine a long-standing love of music, which feeds into their understanding of their clients and their motivation for the work. They are on top of all relevant developments in the music industry and legally are among the very best.’
‘Andrew Sharland is enormously experienced and knowledgeable, but also approachable and very supportive of the team working for him. Patrick Lawrence is excellent, knowledgeable on the law, strategically-minded, driven, capable, on top of detail and user-friendly. Blake Wilner is knowledgeable, focused and with a sound strategic sense, and a very good solicitor.’
‘The team work collaboratively and get into the weeds of a case in order to develop strategy. A go-to for music industry clients.’
Principaux clients
Charli XCX
Radiohead
Chappell Roan
Fred again..
Lewis Capaldi
Daft Punk
The 1975
Max Richter
The Cure
Barry Can’t Swim
Principaux dossiers
- Represented the former members of the seminal band, The Police, in a contractual dispute with the other former member of the band, Gordon Sumner (pka Sting).
- Represented The 1975 in a dispute with the organiser of a music festival in Malaysia that was cancelled, allegedly as a result of the actions of the members of the band.
- Advised Hipgnosis Songs Fund Ltd on a multi-million dollar claim regarding rights in the catalogue of Barry Manilow.
Lee & Thompson LLP
Lee & Thompson LLP‘s music group is led by music specialist Lawrence Engel, who advises recording artists, songwriters, producers, DJs, and music managers. The wider team also represents established heritage acts, major current artists, and emerging music talent in a mix of litigation and commercial work. Martyn Bailey is a leading music litigator acting for record labels, publishers, artists, and managers, while Will Everitt advises clients on music industry contracts and IP issues, as well as live events and touring arrangements for artists. Lizzie Payne-James and Tim Fowler are also notable artist lawyers. Furthermore, the practice has assisted with music-related investments, contractual issues, new label launches, and recording arrangements. Gordon Williams is well-known for his music litigation work. Liv Lyons left the firm in February 2025.
Responsables de la pratique:
Lawrence Engel
Autres avocats clés:
Martyn Bailey; Will Everitt; Lizzie Payne-James; Tim Fowler; Mark Stafford; Dominic Bray; Frania Cooper; Gordon Williams
Les références
‘Lee & Thompson boast good market knowledge that is critical in the music industry, coupled with a team of expert lawyers and advisers.’
‘Will Everitt is a fantastic lawyer and adviser. Exceptional market knowledge across all areas of the music industry, providing insightful and commercially astute guidance. If there was a ‘hero’s trophy’ for music lawyers I would nominate Will.’
‘Mark Stafford has a fine grasp of the music business and the rights involved and can always be trusted or provide the right advice. Great with clients. The firm’s knowledge of the sector is up with the best.’
Principaux clients
Harry Styles
Dave
Dermot Kennedy
Craig David
Depeche Mode
Rita Ora
Myles Smith
Sir Karl Jenkins
Jade Thirlwall
Laura Marling
Olivia Dean
Syco Entertainment
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Myles Smith on all matters, including his recording contract with RCA Records, culminating in his Brit Award win as Rising Star.
- Represented Enhanced Music in its investment from Create Music and connected distribution arrangements.
- Represented David Dollimore in his new label venture with Capitol Records US.
Russells Solicitors
Russells Solicitors is lauded as the ‘pre-eminent firm in music disputes’ and ‘one of the leading London firms in music law’. The firm stands out for its history in assisting leading artists and music companies with the full gamut of music matters. It has also been notably active in catalogue sales and purchases, which are often handled by corporate specialists Ryan Vince and practice head Chris Gossage. It fields a dedicated new artist department, which is geared towards advising emerging talent; Simon Jordan is the key name to note for new artists. Jo Brittain co-leads the practice alongside Gossage, and he focuses on both emerging and established talent. Gavin Maude heads up the commercial team, and he is well-known as a leading artist lawyer, and he also represents music industry executives and employees in employment issues. The litigation team is spearheaded by Steven Tregear, who excels in bringing and defending copyright infringement, contractual, and audit claims. Simon Esplen advises a wide array of industry clients, from artists and managers, to songwriters and producers, while Henry Priestley is a go-to figure for disputes. Dan Hoyle and Alice Rudge are also noted for their specialism in non-contentious and contentious music work, respectively. Liv Lyons recently joined the practice following her departure from Lee & Thompson LLP.
Responsables de la pratique:
Jo Brittain; Chris Gossage; Gavin Maude; Steven Tregear
Autres avocats clés:
Dan Hoyle; Eliot Leggo; Ryan Vince; Simon Jordan; Mark Rowland; Henry Priestley; Alice Rudge; Omar Kirdar; Henry Priestley; Simon Esplen; Chloe Forsyth; Liv Lyons
Les références
‘The team has a number of individuals who are highly experienced in media law disputes, particularly music work. They have an excellent and in-depth knowledge of the music industry, which coupled with their knowledge of the law makes them the go-to firm for this area.’
‘Steven Tragear has excellent knowledge and understanding of the law, is a brilliant negotiator and very commercially minded. Always makes himself available and gets to the nub of the dispute quickly. Dan Hoyle has excellent knowledge and understanding of the law, pays attention to detail whilst being able to take an overview of the case.’
‘Russells is one of the leading London firms in music law. They have an incredibly experienced team with extensive client relationships covering everyone from the big U.S. record labels to up-and-coming English pop artists. If you want music lawyers, these are your guys – it’s that simple!’
Principaux clients
George Michael Entertainment
Coldplay
Andrew Lloyd Webber
Amy Winehouse Estate
Arctic Monkeys
Lola Young
Universal Music Group Recordings, Inc
English Teacher
X-R Touring LLP
Sam Fender
Jamie Cullum
Florence + The Machine
Clean Bandit
Ezra Collective
Loyle Carner
Glass Animals
The Last Dinner Party
Rachel Chinouriri
Beabadoobee
Inflo
Forever Living Originals
SAULT
Pete Rycroft
Corinne Bailey Rae
Gordan Sumner
Confidence Man
Oasis members Andy Bell and Gem Archer
Roisin Murphy
Primal Scream
Young Songs
Transgressive
Michael Ball & Alfie Boe
Wolf Alice
Sony Music Publishing (Australia) PTY Ltd
Edward Peto
Dynamite Songs
Principaux dossiers
- Advised WHAM! on the 40th anniversary re-release of “Last Christmas”.
- Represented Coldplay in High Court proceedings commenced against them by their former manager, David Holmes.
- Represented the Amy Winehouse estate in a High Court litigation concerning the unauthorised auction of items previously belonging to Amy.
Simkins LLP
Simkins LLP is well-versed in advising a wide array music industry clients, from talent and estates of renowned artists, to music companies and record labels. Catalogue acquisitions and sales are a key focus of the team, alongside drafting and negotiating rights agreements. The group has specialised expertise in tax and estate planning for musicians and represents clients in issues before the copyright tribunal. On the disputes side, the practice frequently represents clientele in copyright and contract law litigation. The firm also aids artists seeking out assistance for live events and touring arrangements. Practice head Euan Lawson leads on contractual and copyright issues, as well as matters involving the taxation of entertainers. Nick Eziefula is noted for his artist law work, advising on commercial issues, while Ed Baden-Powell assists with rights deals, Paddy Gardiner excels in music-related disputes, and Ed Weidman focuses on contractual matters. Tom Iverson handles a mix of media disputes and defamation cases.
Responsables de la pratique:
Euan Lawson
Autres avocats clés:
Ed Weidman; Ben Gisbey; Nick Eziefula; Rachael Heeley; Paddy Gardiner; Ed Baden-Powell; Tom Iverson; Jessica Welch
Les références
‘Excellent team – Ed Weidman in particular stands out.’
‘Always had a 100% great experience with Simkins. Superb attention to detail and you come away with a sense of confidence and security in the deals that give great comfort and freedom to move forward.’
‘Ben Gisbey has always acted for me and always delivered 110%. Great understanding and perception of what’s required to get everything over the line, and is relentless to pursue the right outcomes and keep going until the job is finished.’
Principaux clients
P!NK
Experience Hendrix
Sony Music
Virgin Music Group
Universal Music Group
Performing Rights Society
Da Beatfreakz
Wilkinson
Iron Maiden
Eleven Management
Nick Mulvey
Jess Gillam MBE
Becky Hill
Silhouettes Project & Root
The Estate of David Bowie
Marshall Amplification plc
Jitwam
Bella Figura Music
BMG Rights Management
International Olympic Committee
Cutting Edge Group
Big Church Festival
Out of the Ark
Beautiful Digital
Emptage Hallett
Declan Donovan
Conscious Music Group
Faber Music
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Virgin Music Group on its acquisition of Outdustry.
- Advised the Performing Right Society on a reference by UK Cinema Association Ltd to the Copyright Tribunal related to a licensing scheme under which PRS licenses the public performance of its members’ repertoire at cinemas.
- Represented the Estate of Jimi Hendrix and Sony Music in a multi-million pound claim for ownership of copyrights, related rights, and royalties asserted by heirs of Jimi’s former bandmates in The Jimi Hendrix Experience.
Hamlins LLP
Hamlins LLP has boosted the strength of its music practice through its acquisition of boutique music firm Swan Turton LLP, adding Catherine Fehler, Julian Bentley, and Stuart Barry to its team. Fehler is a disputes expert focused on IP, defamation, and privacy, Bentley represents independent record companies, music publishers, and artists, and Barry centres his practice on commercial music law. The firm is well-known for its specialism in advising UK music collecting societies with contentious music requirements. It also stands out for its work on music merchandising and counterfeiting, where it assists clients with carrying out raids across the UK and Europe of manufacturers of infringing band and artist merchandise. IP advice is also a key area of the practice, and spearheading the group is Martin Ochs, who is trusted by music societies as outside counsel and acts for music publishing and merchandising clients in counterfeiting issues.
Responsables de la pratique:
Martin Ochs
Autres avocats clés:
Julian Bentley; Stuart Barry; Harmony Kennedy; Catherine Fehler
Les références
‘The team has unparalleled experience advising the media sector.’
‘Martin Ochs is a hidden gem. What he doesn’t know about copyright law is not worth knowing!’
‘Fantastic service from the music team Julian Bentley, Stuart Barry, Harmony Kennedy and Catherine Fehler. These individuals provide a bespoke service to a highly respected and specific client with their in-depth knowledge of the music industry.’
Principaux clients
Phonographic Performance Limited
Performing Right Society Limited
PPL PRS Limited
George Lowden Guitars
TRAP
David Nicoll
Bravado International Group
Danilo
Sharleen Spiteri
Zbigniew Preisner
Louise Redknapp
Melanie Brown
Madness
The Estate of Peter Green
Underworld
Leftfield
Thompson Twins
The Farm
Michael Beinhorn
Eddie Izzard
Mitch Murray
Dave Cousins
Principaux dossiers
- Assisted Phonographic Performance Limited and PRS For Music with enforcing its copyright on behalf of their members.
- Assisted Trademark and Rights-holders against Piracy with coordinating both civil and criminal infringement actions on behalf of TRAP.
- Represented The Estate of Peter Green, founder of Fleetwood Mac, since 2020.
Harbottle & Lewis LLP
Harbottle & Lewis LLP has a specialised music practice led by music industry expert Kieran Jay. The team centres its practice on advising talent on management agreements, recording and publishing deals, endorsement, and merchandise deals, as well as potential joint ventures. The firm acts for major UK artists, songwriters, producers and record labels, and it has advised clients on master recording and catalogue sales, as well as represented record label and music executives in mandates. Jay is known for his expertise in assisting artist clients from the early stages of their careers and helping them to develop and grow. Neil Adleman advises on IP rights issues for music clients, while Sofie Sigvardt and Will Priestley assist with day-to-day music matters.
Responsables de la pratique:
Kieran Jay
Autres avocats clés:
Neil Adleman; Sofie Sigvardt; Will Priestley
Les références
‘A sound understanding not just of the legal position but also the commercial position.’
‘Sofie Sigvardt has worked on both sides of the industry and has a clear understand of what record labels, publishers, studios, and streamers will agree, enabling her to close deals and paperwork in a time-intensive fashion.’
Principaux dossiers
Lewis Silkin
Lewis Silkin focuses on digital and live music matters, assisting labels, brands, rights-owners, and digital services on label deals, catalogue acquisitions, live performance issues, and sponsorships. It also handles a number of copyright ownership and infringement disputes between former band members. AI music companies and matters are also handled by the team, as well as synthetic and adaptive media for music, voice, lyrics, and music data intelligence. Practice head Cliff Fluet is well-versed in digital media and music matters, representing major and independent labels, digital service providers, social networks, and music innovators with corporate and commercial matters. Jeremy Summers is noted for his work on IP issues affecting music clients, while Lauren Stone focuses on music rights clearance and negotiating talent contacts with artists for live shows.
Responsables de la pratique:
Cliff Fluet
Autres avocats clés:
Lauren Stone; Gavin McNaughton; Jeremy Summers
Les références
‘Lewis Silkin are excellent to work with. Their advice is commercial and pragmatic and their lawyers are reliable, responsive and have a good understanding of our business and our needs.’
‘Lauren Stone is collaborative, commercial and extremely responsive. Her advice is pragmatic and clear, and her industry knowledge has helped us navigate a variety of different music licences for both brand campaigns and events.’
‘Just a great team!’
Principaux clients
DAACI
MusicBird
Rezonate Music Fund
Ministry of Sound
Un:hurd
Serenade
Royal Albert Hall
Champion Records
Audoo
Superstruct
DAACI
MusicBird
Rezonate Music Fund
Ministry of Sound
Un:hurd
Serenade
Royal Albert Hall
Champion Records
Audoo
Superstruct
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Rezonate on its pipeline of 6-7 figure international royalty revenue acquisition deals.
- Advised Annerin Productions on obtaining clearance for the music used in immersive entertainment experience, Beyond Van Gogh.
- Advised Superstruct Entertainment on a wide range of music matters across its various festivals.
Reed Smith LLP
Reed Smith LLP is an expert in music and talent law, handling large, complex transactions and corporate matters for the music industry. Catalogue music acquisitions are a major pillar of the practice, which works closely with rights holders, investors, and entertainment companies to structure successful deals and protect artist legacies. It also assists clients with joint ventures and investments, advises record labels and technology companies on music licensing and copyright law, and negotiates agreements between artists, managers, and music companies. Additionally, the team is equipped to assist on AI issues, ensuring clients remain compliant with copyright law while using AI to aid the creation of music. Gregor Pryor leads the music team and is an expert in supporting record labels, music publishers, and artists in music catalogue acquisitions, AI-driven licensing models, regulatory compliance, and other music transactions. He is ably supported by Nick Breen, who is experienced in handling rights acquisitions, licensing, and commercial transactions.
Responsables de la pratique:
Gregor Pryor
Autres avocats clés:
Nick Breen; Mike Young; Hannah Kong; Kat McGriskin
Les références
‘Reed Smith continued to handle our ongoing transactional and contentious matters across a range of countries, but mostly in respect of the US and UK. The team’s key strength is its industry expertise, in our view. While there are local boutique firms that operate in the entertainment sector, really the only firm that we think has global capability is Reed Smith. We value that. The quality of the advice and the attention to detail is second-to-none.’
‘Our main contacts in the UK have been Gregor Pryor and Mike Young, supported by Nick Breen and Hannah Kong. Gregor has been our relationship lawyer for almost a decade. He’s truly exceptional, keeps a cool head and is clever in his approach. Over the years, he’s delivered insightful, commercial advice that has helped contribute to our success. Mike is a super corporate lawyer, into the detail and doesn’t miss a trick.’
‘Collaborative. Great sector knowledge.’
Principaux clients
Pipe Entertainment (UK) Limited
Sony Music
Blue Rhythm Limited
Cr2 Records Limited
Mavin Global
Frank Carter
Principaux dossiers
Sheridans
Sheridans' music practice advises artists, songwriters, producers, and music companies on a range of day-to-day matters, talent issues, and corporate mandates. Practice head Stephen Luckman advises musical groups and individual performers, writers, and producers on commercial and IP issues, while co-lead Claire Lewis advises on matters that cross over between music and the theatre industry. Russell Roberts is knowledgeable on a wide array of music matters, including share transactions, sales and acquisitions of music catalogues, and employment matters. He often represents US music companies and artists, as well as domestic talent. Artists seek out Lance Phillips to advise on music and media agreements and the acquisitions of music rights. Wale Kalejaiye provides assistance to both emerging and established music clients, supporting their outside ventures and advising on IP rights.
Responsables de la pratique:
Stephen Luckman; Claire Lewis
Autres avocats clés:
Lance Phillips; Russell Roberts; Wale Kalejaiye
Les références
‘There is a member of the team for every scenario, whether it be AI, image rights or IP. Great corporate structure and employment team. One firm covers all of my needs.’
‘Wale Kalejaiye is entrepreneurial and creative and Russell Roberts is a legend.’
‘Personable, invested, knowledgable.’
Principaux dossiers
Sound Advice (Legal) LLP
Sound Advice (Legal) LLP is a go-to firm for creatives, frequently assisting artists with their music careers. The firm fields a strong team of music-focused experts led by Robert Horsfall, who is well-known for his work advising legacy artists as well as jazz, country, folk, and Americana artists. Sonia Diwan ‘is highly respected by the music industry’, representing key pop and urban music acts, songwriters, and producers on commercial matters. Jules O’Riordan is embedded in the electronic music industry, having performed globally as a DJ and currently advising on management, recording, publishing, distribution, and label services for electronic dance acts. Alex Meiklejohn specialises in live and sponsorship sectors, assisting music companies and artists of all genres.
Responsables de la pratique:
Robert Horsfall
Autres avocats clés:
Sonia Diwan; Jules O’Riordan; Alex Meiklejohn; Sandra Namusiitwa
Les références
‘In all the decades Sound Advice has taken care of my legal affairs, they’ve been my champions. One musician dealing with major music corporations is a daunting proposition. Sound Advice level that field.’
‘Robert Horsfall is what I consider the perfect lawyer – I know he will always both represent my interests and also me as a professional. Most importantly, he listens to what I want as a client and doesn’t try to apply some one-size-fits-all template.’
‘Sound Advice is a small firm with highly qualified and experienced lawyers. It is ideally placed to provide top-quality advice that is at least as good as other ‘bigger’ firms in the specialist sector of music.’
Principaux clients
Chase & Status
TMS
Recordings Limited
Various
Dave Bianchi
Danny Goffey (Supergrass)
Paloma Faith
Frame Artists
Chris Lorenzo
Amy Wadge
King Underground Limited
Robert Etheridge (pka Dimension)
Principaux dossiers
CMS
CMS's music practice combines commercial and corporate expertise with advising on licensing transactions and disputes, as well as copyright issues. Of recent note, the team has advised music clients on copyright issues arising out of the rise of AI. Clientele of the firm comprises of music rights owners, music companies, technology enterprises, and digital services. The music practice is led by John Enser who has broad expertise across commercial, regulatory and copyright law. He regularly assists clients with the licensing of music rights, both individually and collectively, and is active in copyright tribunal cases. Steven Corney is a litigation specialist who handles music rights disputes.
Responsables de la pratique:
John Enser
Autres avocats clés:
Steven Corney; Victoria Gaskell
Les références
‘Deep knowledge of the music industry and one of the key players. Strategic positioning on hot music copyright developments. Understanding of various interests at stake. The firm has a key understanding of the interplay of EU and UK statutes in a post-Brexit scenario.’
‘The music team provided us with junior secondee support for a global tentpole music event. We were happy to find that the support and expertise at CMS was just as stellar as for the the traditional media work we’ve relied on them for previously.’
‘The quality of the junior secondee we work with was excellent; intuitive, eager, efficient and endlessly affable. All qualities we have come to expect and value from CMS. Victoria Gaskell shines in her field, is smart as a whip and endlessly helpful.’
Principaux clients
Cutting Edge Group Limited
UK Cinema Association
ICC Business Corporation FZ LLC
Esports World Cup Foundation
Paramount Global
Global Media Group
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Cutting Edge Group on a complex multi-territory corporate group re-organisation as a required precursor to a $500m debt refinancing.
- Assisted UK Cinema Association with filing at the Copyright Tribunal, following the decision by PRS for Music to significantly increase the licence fees payable by the UK cinema industry.
- Assisted Paramount Global with critical support for the MTV European Music Awards 2024, held in Manchester.
Keystone Law
Keystone Law is well-placed to advise on contentious and non-contentious issues for music individuals and corporate organisations. Nick Weaser is a key advisor to songwriters, artists, and producers on publishing and record deals, as well as live performance, merchandising, and sponsorship agreements. Litigation specialist Lawrence Abramson represents high-profile individuals and music companies in copyright, contractual, and license disputes. Copyright infringement proceedings against writers and publishers are handled by Jacqueline Brown.
Autres avocats clés:
Nick Weaser; Lawrence Abrason; Jacqueline Brown
Les références
‘Nick is incredibly user friendly, smart, thorough and adaptable. He’s always prepped.’
‘Nick Owers has brilliant top level legal and big tech commercial experience and for tech or media he is my go to person.’
Principaux clients
Abby Sage
KOKOKO!
Louis Schoorl
Twig World Limited
Noel Redding Estate Ltd & Mitch Mitchell Estate Limited
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Abby Sage on the negotiation of her first exclusive co-publishing agreement with Secretly Publishing.
- Advised KOKOKO! on the negotiation of their new record deal with UK independent powerhouse Transgressive Records.
- Advised Noel Redding Estate Ltd & Mitch Mitchell Estate Limited on their ongoing lawsuit against Sony Music, alleging copyright infringement and performers’ rights violations.
Level
Level is home to senior lawyers all specialised in the music industry, and the group has recently expanded with the addition of Anna Harrison and Keith Ashby, who handle music matters and defamation cases respectively. Halina Wielogorska is known for her commercial outlook when handling music matters, often advising artists, music start-ups, labels, and music businesses. John Reid focuses on employment matters for the music industry, largely assisting senior executives. Raffaella De Santis is noted for her work on live performances, touring agreements, and digital music rights, while Rupert Sprawson is an expert in music publishing, recorded music, and digital distribution.
Autres avocats clés:
Rupert Sprawson; Raffaella De Santis; Halina Wielogorska; John Reid; Anna Harrison; Keith Ashby
Les références
‘I have worked with Rupert Sprawson on a wide range of deals for 7 years and outside of doing business together we share a good relationship and friendship. Rupert is extremely diligent but approaches conversations fairly and openly.’
‘Rupert Sprawson is extremely diligent and competent at his job which makes working with him very easy. He’s been very consistent with communications as well as being honest on how he believes each business dealing should be approached and handled when keeping in mind the best interests of the client.’
Principaux clients
Peermusic (UK) Limited
K2 Agency Limited
Maxim of Prodigy
Blue Room Arts Limited
Katie Melua
Mista Trick
Jordan Fish
Worship Management
Arcadia Spectacular
Fleur De Mur
Cole Ostrin
Rekognition Sound Limited
Furious Styles Productions Limited
ROEX Limited
Ceri Evans aka Sunship
Uncovered Group Limited
Gimme Sugar Limited
Ryan De La Cruz
WhoSampled.com
JustinGuitar
Pretty Decent Music Publishing & Records
Gaetan Judd
Amplify Music
Erland
Rachel Portman OBE
Sally Beamish OBE
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Peermusic (UK) Limited on a number of publishing signings including Troniq; Adam Argyle; Max Music Publishing; High Contrast; and Ida Mae.
- Advised Worship Management on all aspects of their management business including in their renegotiations with top-tier, globally renowned producers and DJs.
- Advised Gimme Sugar Limited on all aspects of its legal arrangements with Nickelback for the direction and production of the acclaimed rock documentary, “Nickelback- Hate to Love”.
Simons Muirhead Burton
Simons Muirhead Burton is noted for its specialism in music asset acquisitions and sales. The firm has strong transactional capabilities, assisting music industry clients with M&A, joint ventures, investments, and partnerships. Practice head Richard Baskind works together with artists, songwriters, independent record labels, music publishers, and music executives on music industry transactions. Alasdair George focuses on advising major and independent music companies, investment funds, and entrepreneurs on talent and business matters. Also noted is Anthony Orum, who supports music clients with branding, business strategy, and other legal issues.
Responsables de la pratique:
Richard Baskind
Autres avocats clés:
Alasdair George; Anthony Orum
Les références
‘Simons Muirhead Burton are what I would call a « mini-major. » They are full-service across many departments and verticals. When I look for a law firm, I look for good ethics, competence negotiating agreements, and great advice. It is rare to find all 3. Simons Muirhead Burton provides them all. Its partners and associates are detail-oriented, nice, and highly familiar with their market. They always work efficiently and commercially.’
‘Richard Baskind and Alasdair George are the senior music business partners and my go-to advisers. They are yin and yang. Between them they cover relationships, agreement negotiation, and understanding of the financial side of deals as well. Couldn’t ask for more from a pair of partners, and they are also nice and giving of their time.’
Principaux clients
KMR Holdings LP
Patrick Doyle
5K Records Limited
2K Records Limited
5dB Records Limited
Pangaea Group Ltd
Cristale De’Abreu
Recessland Ltd
Perfect Havoc Limited
Flak Records Ltd
Invisible Men
Principaux dossiers
Statham Gill Davies
Statham Gill Davies's music practice is well-versed in music law matters, focusing on artist representation. It advises British talent on management, branding, sponsorships, and publishing contracts, alongside a variety of agreements such as non-disclosures, commercial, and talent agreements. Talya Shalson spearheads the practice and advises music artists, songwriters, and producers on agreements and rights issues. John Statham handles a mix of UK and international artists, advising on corporate and IP issues. Paul Lennon has a wealth of experience assisting new artists and corporate clients with music matters.
Responsables de la pratique:
Talya Shalson
Autres avocats clés:
John Statham; Paul Lennon
Les références
‘Talya Shalson has a unique approach to her clients and really considers all the angles and aspects of any deal.’
‘Talya Shalson gives legal advice in a friendly and easy-to-understand manner.’
‘The team are personable and have a personal approach.’
Principaux dossiers
Wiggin LLP
Wiggin LLP acts for music industry bodies, streaming services, technology companies, and record labels in contentious and non-contentious music matters. It stands out for its expertise in handling copyright infringement cases for music-related clients, and it also boasts regulatory and commercial expertise, advising technology and data companies, as well as digital music platforms. For corporate work, the team regularly assists with acquisitions and catalogue sales. Rachel Alexander heads up the practice and is an expert in IP litigation for the music industry, while co-head Peter Mason focuses on music licensing issues, music copyright law, and AI issues. Alexander Ross is noted for his work on music rights, while Georgina Hart is well-versed in advising collecting societies.
Responsables de la pratique:
Rachel Alexander; Peter Mason
Autres avocats clés:
Alexander Ross; Georgina Hart
Les références
‘Great legal advice to clients and strategic insight across the media, music, telecoms, and technology industries. Proactive approach and clear communication. Clear dedication to client success.’
‘Rachel Alexander has deep sector knowledge with a sharp legal mind and an intuitive understanding of the commercial realities faced by her clients. A trusted advisor to clients and well prepared.’
‘Georgina Hart is responsive, pragmatic, and very well-informed. A trusted advisor to her clients and clear communicator.’
Principaux clients
Disney
International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI)
Lissen
Performing Right Society (PRS)
Phonographic Performance Ltd (PPL)
On Air B.V.
One Media iP
Oxford University Press
Sony Music Entertainment UK Limited
Soundmouse
TCAT
Warner Music UK Limited
Principaux dossiers
- Represented Warner Music, and Sony Music Entertainment in a substantial High Court damages inquiry against TuneIn.
- Represented the Performing Right Society Limited in High Court proceedings issued in June 2024 by PACE Rights Management LLP and certain PRS writer members.
- Advised Disney on all the music licensing for its Disney+ service across Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
Bird & Bird LLP
Bird & Bird LLP's music practice draws on its technology expertise to advise on complex music rights and royalties issues, music financing, copyright issues, and AI. The firm continues to be active in music industry disputes related to copyright and licensing. Team lead Phil Sherrell is a seasoned media and entertainment litigator with a wealth of experience handling cases in the music sector. He is an expert on the application of copyright to media and media regulation. The firm also keeps clients up-to-date with AI issues affecting the music industry.
Responsables de la pratique:
Phil Sherrell
Principaux clients
TuneIn
Dave Holmes
UK Radioplayer Limited
Radioplayer Worldwide Limited
Royal Opera House
Principaux dossiers
- Represented TuneIn in the litigation brought against it by Sony Music and Warner Music.
- Advised Radioplayer on a significant restructuring of its business to unlock further investment, as well as advising on new distribution arrangements with the BBC, Bauer, and Global.
- Advised the Royal Opera House on an in-depth IP audit relating to rights deriving from ballets and operas.
Seddons GSC LLP
Seddons GSC LLP is known in the industry for its work assisting music and copyright collecting societies with contentious and non-contentious matters. The team is home to experts in IP issues, representing clients in copyright tribunal disputes related to fees and license terms, and copyright infringement cases. It also assists with licensing issues and advises on international collections and copyright law reform. Enforcement work is also a key area of the practice. Justin Goldspink leads the group alongside Clive Halperin; Goldspink’s ‘knowledge of copyright, especially sound recording copyright in the music industry, is second-to-none’. Halperin handles a mix of commercial and corporate work, advising on cross-border transactions and AI issues for the music sector. Ross Waldram aids clients with day-to-day issues and IP protection.
Responsables de la pratique:
Justin Goldspink; Clive Halperin
Autres avocats clés:
Ross Waldram
Les références
‘Justin Goldspink has the most in-depth knowledge of music and copyright law of anyone in the sector. He really is a walking encyclopaedia of the area. As a consequence, he is a highly trusted and longstanding advisor to major music clients.’
‘Ross Waldram is a superb commercial advisor with extensive experience of the music sector.’
‘Fantastic experience and knowledge of the media sector giving them an edge over many in the market.’
Principaux clients
Phonographic Performance Limited
PPL PRS Limited
CanO Water Limited
Principaux dossiers
- Represented Phonographic Performance Limited before the Copyright Tribunal in respect of the tariff for the use of PPL’s sound recordings at events.
- Assisting PPL PRS Limited with the enforcement of the rights of PPL and PRS in sound recordings and musical works.
- Represented PPL in of the third-party disclosure application issued by TuneIn as part of the ongoing case for copyright infringement brought by Sony and Warner.