MUSIC PUBLISHING
GLOSSARY

Work-For-Hire

In this context, an agreement in which a songwriter composes a musical work within the scope of their employment for another entity and does not retain copyright or publishing ownership over the work. Work-for-hire agreements are common in film, TV, and advertising, in which production companies often hire composers to create music specifically for their projects. Instead of receiving an initial fee and subsequent royalties, a work-for-hire creator receives only a one-time up-front fee for their work. 

Related Terms:

• Publishing Agreement
• Producer

Related Articles:

• Producers & Publishing
• Producers, Placements, and Publishing
• Producers and Beats
• Which Kind of Publishing Deal Is Right For You?
• What Does it Mean When a Song is a Work-For-Hire?

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