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What Is the Point of Mastering If the Mix Is Good? A Guide to Understanding Mastering's Role

August 26, 2024

For many newer producers, it can be confusing to understand the importance of mastering, especially when your mix feels polished and balanced. However, mastering is an essential step in the...

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Write a Vocal Melody That Stands Out: Tips for Phrasing and Dynamics

August 25, 2024

If you’ve been writing music for a decade but are just starting to dive into vocal melodies, you’re not alone in facing challenges with phrasing and creating vocal dynamics that don’t feel repetitive.

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Add FX and Ear Candy to Your Tracks: Tips for Taking Your Sketch to the Next Level

August 23, 2024

Adding FX and ear candy can feel like a daunting task, especially when you start to overthink the process. However, these little details are often what bring a track to life, adding depth, excitement.

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Recreate a Vocal Stutter Effect Like Skrillex: A Step-by-Step Guide

August 21, 2024

If you’ve just stepped into the world of music production, vocal stutters can be a fun and impactful technique to add excitement and energy to your tracks. You’ve heard that fast vocal stutter at...

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Get a Great Sounding Synth: The Deadmau5 Approach

August 21, 2024

If you’ve been experimenting with synthesizers, you know the quest for a perfect synth sound can be a challenging but rewarding process. Whether you’re looking for something clean yet huge, or...

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Make Music Again: Overcoming Creative Burnout Like Pharrell Williams

August 21, 2024

Hey there, fellow music creators! Whether you’re balancing a day job, DJ gigs, and music production, or just feeling creatively stuck, you’re not alone. Many of us hit a wall at some point, where...

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Master Your Craft as a Beatmaker: The J Dilla Way

August 21, 2024

In this article, we’ll explore the most efficient ways to master your creative process as a beatmaker, and how you can learn from one of the most respected producers in the game: J Dilla.

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Bumbershoot Festival 2024: A Creative Celebration in Seattle

August 8, 2024

This Labor Day weekend, Bumbershoot Arts and Music Festival returns to Seattle Center from August 31 to September 1, 2024. With a rich history spanning over 50 years, Bumbershoot continues to be a...

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Ohana Festival 2024: A Must-Attend Event for Music Creators

August 8, 2024

As the summer winds down and the crisp autumn air begins to roll in, music enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating one of California’s premier music festivals. The Ohana Festival, set to take place...

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Desert Daze 2024: A Creative Oasis for Music Enthusiasts

August 8, 2024

As the vibrant hues of summer give way to the golden tones of fall, the anticipation for one of California’s most eclectic music festivals begins to build. This October, the 2024 Desert Daze music...

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How to Create a Joyful Song Like "Happy" by Pharrell Williams

July 24, 2024

Creating a song that radiates joy and energy, much like Pharrell Williams' hit "Happy," is an exciting challenge for any music creator. Whether you're a seasoned producer or just starting out...

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Why Nas' Illmatic Deserves the Top Spot: Rap Lyricism at its Finest

July 17, 2024

Nas’ debut album, Illmatic, has been crowned the greatest rap album of all time by Billboard, and for good reason. Celebrated for its lyrical brilliance and profound storytelling, Illmatic set...

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How Black Pink Should Negotiate Their New Contract with YG Entertainment

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As the contract between Blackpink and YG Entertainment nears its end, fans of the popular South Korean girl group are wondering if the group will renew their contract with the agency.

Blackpink, consisting of members Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa, first signed with YG Entertainment in 2011 and made their debut in 2016 with the single "Boombayah." Since then, they have become one of the most successful girl groups in the world, with hit songs like "Ddu-Du Ddu-Du," "Kill This Love," and "Ice Cream" featuring Selena Gomez.

However, as the group's contract with YG Entertainment comes to a close, many are questioning if they will renew their contract with the agency or move on to other opportunities.

On one hand, YG Entertainment has been a major factor in Blackpink's success, providing the group with the resources and support needed to become one of the biggest girl groups in the world. The agency has also allowed the members to pursue individual endeavors, such as solo music projects and acting roles.

On the other hand, Blackpink has reached a level of success that could potentially allow them to branch out on their own. The members have already begun to establish themselves as solo artists, with Jennie releasing her debut solo single "Solo" in 2018 and Rosé releasing her debut solo single "Gone" in 2021.

Some speculate that they will be joining producer Teddy’s label called The Black Label due to the close relationship that was fostered in the studio when working on their albums.

It is uncertain what the future holds for Blackpink and their relationship with YG Entertainment. While the group has been successful with the agency, they may choose to explore other opportunities in the industry.

10 Factors for Artists & Creators When Negotiating a New Record Label Contract:

Whether Blackpink renews their contract with YG Entertainment or take their careers in a new direction, the following are 10 factors they should consider when negotiating with the other party:

When it comes to music business contract negotiations, there are several key factors that should be taken into consideration. Whether you're an artist, manager, or record label executive, it's important to be well-informed and aware of your rights and responsibilities. Here are the top 10 things to consider during music business contract negotiations:

  1. Royalty rates: This is one of the most important factors in any music contract negotiation. Royalty rates determine how much an artist will be paid for each album or single sold. It's important to negotiate a fair rate that is commensurate with the artist's level of success and popularity.
  2. Advance payments: An advance payment is a sum of money paid to an artist upfront, before any royalties are earned. This can be a significant factor in contract negotiations, as it can provide an artist with the financial stability they need to continue working on their music.
  3. Ownership rights: It's important to clearly define the rights and ownership of the music in the contract. This includes who owns the master recordings, the rights to use the music for different purposes, and who will get the revenue generated from the use of the music.
  4. Touring and merchandising: Many contracts include provisions for touring and merchandising. It's important to clearly define the rights and responsibilities of both the artist and the label in these areas.
  5. Promotion and marketing: A successful music career requires effective promotion and marketing. It's important to ensure that the contract includes provisions for promoting the artist and their music, as well as the budget for marketing and promotion.
  6. Length of contract: The length of the contract should be negotiated based on the artist's career goals. Some artists may want a shorter contract in order to have more control over their career, while others may prefer a longer contract for stability and security.
  7. Termination clauses: It's important to include termination clauses in the contract, in case either party wishes to end the contract early. This should be negotiated carefully to ensure that both parties are protected in the event of termination.
  8. Legal representation: It's important for both parties to have legal representation during contract negotiations. A lawyer can help to ensure that the contract is fair and legally binding, and can advise on any potential issues that may arise.
  9. Digital rights management: With the rise of streaming and digital music, it's important to include provisions in the contract for digital rights management. This includes how the music will be distributed and marketed online, as well as the revenue generated from digital sales.
  10. Flexibility: Finally, it's important to ensure that the contract is flexible and allows for changes as the artist's career develops. This includes the ability to renegotiate terms and make adjustments as needed, to ensure that both parties are satisfied with the agreement.

By considering these factors during music business contract negotiations, artists & music creators like Black Pink can ensure that they are protected and that the agreement is in the best interests of all parties involved. With a well-negotiated contract, an artist can focus on creating and performing music, while the label can focus on promoting and marketing the artist's work.