Audrey Lawson

Legal Advisor

Feels Like Records • Full-time

Dec 2013 - Sep 2021 • 7 yrs 9 mos

My legal engagement with Feels Like Records involved supporting the interests of an independent record label operating within the music recording, distribution, and entertainment industries. I addressed legal matters affecting artist relationships, recording agreements, intellectual property ownership, and the commercial exploitation of musical works. Negotiations with recording artists, songwriters, producers, and music collaborators required attention to contractual rights and financial arrangements. I examined recording contracts, producer agreements, royalty provisions, advance payments, revenue participation, and obligations concerning the delivery and release of musical recordings. Music ownership presented legal challenges involving master recordings, publishing rights, songwriting credits, copyright registrations, and the clearance of samples or third party compositions. I evaluated licensing permissions and contractual restrictions to determine how recordings could be reproduced, distributed, performed, or incorporated into commercial productions. The label's relationships with streaming services, distributors, promotional agencies, and entertainment partners introduced additional responsibilities. I reviewed digital distribution terms, synchronization licenses, promotional agreements, merchandising arrangements, and provisions governing international releases, revenue reporting, and the protection of artist identities. Disagreements involving royalty calculations, ownership claims, unauthorized sampling, contract termination, or unapproved distribution required analysis of recording agreements and financial documentation. I assisted in developing legal responses and negotiating resolutions that balanced artist rights with the label's commercial obligations. My work supported Feels Like Records in protecting its music catalogue, maintaining contractual accountability, resolving industry disputes, and managing the legal complexities of recorded music.