The Importance of Split Sheets in Music

Split sheets are documents used in the music industry to define and agree on the ownership shares of a song among its co-authors. These agreements are crucial to prevent disputes and ensure that everyone involved receives their fair share of the royalties generated by the song.

In this article, we’ll explore what split sheets are, their importance, and how they can protect your financial and creative interests in music.

What Are Split Sheets?

A split sheet is a document that details the division of ownership and royalties of a song among its co-authors. This document specifies the percentage of the song that belongs to each collaborator based on their contribution to the lyrics, music, and other creative aspects.

Key Components of a Split Sheet:

1. Names and Contacts of Collaborators: Includes the legal names and contact information of all co-authors.
2. Description of Contributions: Details the specific contributions of each collaborator (lyrics, music, production, etc.).
3. Ownership Percentage: Specifies the percentage of the song that belongs to each co-author.
4. Signatures: Signatures of all collaborators to validate the agreement.

Importance of Split Sheets

Prevention of Disputes

One of the main reasons to use split sheets is to prevent disputes over song ownership. Without a clear agreement, conflicts can arise among collaborators about who deserves what percentage of the royalties. A signed split sheet provides a clear and legal basis for income distribution.

Clarity and Transparency

Split sheets promote clarity and transparency in musical collaborations. By documenting each participant’s contributions and agreeing on ownership percentages from the beginning, everyone involved has a clear understanding of their rights and expectations.

Legal Protection

In case of legal disputes, split sheets act as documentary evidence of the agreement among co-authors. Having a signed and detailed document can be crucial in legal proceedings to resolve conflicts over ownership and royalties.

Royalty Registration and Collection

Copyright organizations such as ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC require accurate information on song ownership to distribute royalties correctly. Split sheets provide the necessary information to register the song and ensure that royalties are paid to the rightful owners.

How to Create a Split Sheet

Step 1: Initial Discussion and Agreement

Before starting to work on a song, it is essential to discuss and agree on how royalties will be divided. This initial agreement should be based on the anticipated contributions of each collaborator.

Step 2: Document Contributions

During the creation process, document the specific contributions of each collaborator. This includes details about who wrote the lyrics, composed the music, produced the track, etc.

Step 3: Assign Percentages

Based on the documented contributions, assign an ownership percentage to each collaborator. Ensure that these percentages add up to 100% of the song.

Step 4: Complete the Split Sheet

Fill out the split sheet with the names, contributions, and ownership percentages of all collaborators. Include contact information for each and any other relevant information.

Step 5: Sign and Store the Split Sheet

Ensure that all collaborators sign the split sheet. Keep copies of the document for each collaborator and for your own records.

Practical Example of a Split Sheet

Collaborators:

• Artist A: Music Composer (50%)
• Artist B: Lyricist (30%)
• Producer C: Producer and Arrangements (20%)

Documentation:

1. Project Name: "Example Song"
2. Names and Contacts:
   • Artist A: [Legal Name, Email, Phone]
   • Artist B: [Legal Name, Email, Phone]
   • Producer C: [Legal Name, Email, Phone]
3. Contributions:
   • Artist A: Music Composition
   • Artist B: Lyrics
   • Producer C: Production and Arrangements
4. Ownership Percentage:
   • Artist A: 50%
   • Artist B: 30%
   • Producer C: 20%
5. Signatures:
   • [Signature of Artist A]
   • [Signature of Artist B]
   • [Signature of Producer C]

Split sheets are an essential tool for protecting your royalties and ensuring fair and transparent collaboration in music. By clearly documenting contributions and agreeing on ownership percentages, you can prevent disputes and ensure that all collaborators receive their fair share of the income.