Managing an artist without a written agreement is one of the fastest ways to end a business relationship and lose money. Whether you're an artist signing with your first manager or a manager formalizing a new client, this 5-page attorney-drafted management agreement gives both parties a clear foundation — commissions, duties, termination rights, and post-term protections all in one document. This is the same agreement structure used in deals with touring artists and major EDM management companies, drafted by a NY entertainment attorney with 15+ years in the music industry. What's Included Commission & Payment Terms 20% standard commission on gross income (industry standard for artist managers) Clear payment timing — when and how the manager gets paid Commission exclusions — what income the manager doesn't commission (touring merch the artist manufactures, etc.) Term & Termination Initial 2-year term with automatic 1-year renewals Termination provisions — how either party can end the relationship Notice requirements — 30/60/90-day notice periods Post-Term Protections (Sunset Clause) 3-year sunset clause — manager continues to commission deals they originated after the relationship ends Graduated sunset — commission decreases over time post-term Clear definitions — which deals qualify for post-term commission Duties & Responsibilities Manager obligations clearly defined Artist obligations clearly defined Exclusivity provisions — is this an exclusive management relationship? Common Mistakes This Template Helps You Avoid ❌ No written agreement at all — "We're friends, we don't need a contract" leads to ugly disputes when money starts flowing ❌ Unclear sunset provisions — Manager claims commission on deals 5 years after the relationship ends with no written limit ❌ Vague manager duties — What exactly is the manager supposed to do? This needs to be spelled out in writing ❌ Missing termination rights — Artist gets stuck in a bad management relationship with no exit clause ❌ Commission on everything — Manager takes 20% of touring merch the artist manufactures and sells themselves ✅ This template addresses all of these issues upfront. Who This Is For Independent artists signing with their first manager Managers formalizing relationships with existing or new clients Labels that manage artists in-house Producers who also manage other artists or producers Frequently Asked Questions Is 20% commission standard?Yes, 15–20% is industry standard for artist managers. Some managers charge 15% for established artists or 25% for developing artists. This template uses 20% but is fully customizable. What's a sunset clause and why does it matter?A sunset clause allows the manager to continue earning commission on deals they originated after the management relationship ends. Without one, a manager could argue they're owed commission indefinitely. The 3-year graduated sunset in this template is artist-friendly — commission decreases over time so it doesn't follow the artist forever. Can I modify the commission rate or term length?Absolutely. This is a Word document you can edit. Change commission rates, term lengths, exclusivity provisions — whatever fits your deal. Is this legally binding?Yes, when properly executed by both parties. For high-value deals or complex situations, have an attorney review it before signing. What if my manager is also booking my shows?This template covers management only. If your manager is acting as your booking agent too, you'll want a separate booking agreement — or contact us to discuss a custom agreement for your situation. What Happens After Purchase ✅ Instant Download — Microsoft Word (.docx) file delivered immediately after checkout ✅ Fully Editable — Customize all terms to fit your specific deal ✅ Lifetime Access — Download anytime from your account ✅ One-Time Payment — $49, no subscription Need this customized? Email [email protected] to discuss a contract review or custom drafting. New to management deals? Read what to know before you hire a manager at acfreedmanlaw.com. *DISCLAIMER: These templates are for informational purposes only, and purchasing them doesn't make us your lawyer. It's impossible to make one version that fits every situation, so you should contact a lawyer to make sure it fits yours.
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