Music industry legal guidance
We advise artists, managers, labels and publishers on music industry deals, combining legal expertise with practical, strategic insight.
The music industry is a complex business which can often seem confusing and daunting to artists and industry professionals alike. Contracts are often worded in lengthy and archaic language which can be difficult to understand, but can have serious long-term implications.
Our aim is to demystify the workings of the industry and provide clear, easy to understand advice and guidance.
Based in Cape Town, we act for songwriters, composers, singers, musicians, producers, bands, artist managers, record labels and publishers in South Africa and beyond.
Our role goes beyond contract drafting and review. We advise on the structure, negotiation and strategy behind music industry deals, helping clients navigate opportunities across music, media and the wider commercial landscape.
A combination of legal expertise and real-world industry insight.
Darren Rose is an entertainment lawyer with a strong focus on the music industry. Based in Cape Town, he advises artists, managers, labels and publishers across a wide range of commercial and legal matters.
His work spans both local and international markets, combining legal expertise with a practical understanding of how deals are structured, negotiated and executed in the real world. Darren is known for providing clear, commercially focused advice on complex issues.
John Maclennan is an artist manager and music industry consultant with over 25 years of international experience.
He has managed chart-topping acts including Utah Saints in the UK and Jax Panik in South Africa, and currently manages Muzi, one of South Africa’s most respected and innovative artists.
John brings deep commercial insight and a practical understanding of how deals play out in the real world.
Clear, fixed-fee support for artists, producers and managers who want to understand deals, spot risks early and negotiate from a stronger position.
A detailed review of your agreement with practical advice on what the key terms mean, where the risks sit, and what you should push back on.
End-to-end support where you want help improving the deal, not just understanding it. Includes strategy, mark-up and negotiation input.
One-to-one sessions for quick, practical guidance on a deal, a contract, or the options in front of you.
Fixed-fee options for straightforward support, with custom arrangements available where more ongoing input is needed.
From R1,500
A fast, high-level review of shorter or simpler agreements.
From R3,000
A full review of your agreement with clear, practical advice.
R4,500 – R6,000
End-to-end support to help you secure better terms.
From R750
Ideal if you’d rather talk a deal through before signing.
Custom / Monthly
For artists, managers or teams who need support across multiple deals.
No jargon. No unnecessary back-and-forth. Just straightforward support when you need it.
Have a contract ready? Send it through or use the form and we’ll take a look.