Work updates and events: can AI write a convincing blog post for me?

Recently I ran a training seminar programme for a group of European music professionals, organised by Music Export (https://musicexportukraine.com). A couple of weeks earlier I was at the ISM’s ‘Empowered Musician’ event  talking about artificial intelligence and what it might mean for music (https://www.ism.org/professional-development/the-empowered-musician-2023).

As an experiment, and to link these two things together, I dumped some points about the seminar into ChatGPT, and asked it to write a blog post about it. The AI generated text is copied in italics below, in its full unedited form.

What do you think of it? In my view, in the AI generated text the “meaning” is clear and accurate, but the tone isn’t really “me”. It reads as slightly flat and pedestrian. There’s too much repetition, and a few too many clichés. Otherwise it’s not too bad, and it took far less time than carefully crafting it myself.

Title: Demystifying Music Industry Contracts: Insights from an Empowering Seminar

Introduction:

Last month, I had the privilege of leading a training seminar on music industry contracts organized by Music Export Ukraine, in collaboration with RAW Music from Romania and Lala Slovak Music Export. With the generous support of a grant from the European Commission, the seminar aimed to provide music industry professionals from across Central and Eastern Europe with a comprehensive understanding of music contracts and their significance in the international music landscape.

 Session Overview:

The seminar commenced with a thorough exploration of music rights, delving into the intricacies of who holds these rights and in what context they apply. By establishing a solid foundation on music rights, we laid the groundwork for comprehending how the international music industry functions and the critical role that various types of rights play in shaping it.

In the second part of the session, we delved into ten essential contracts that are prevalent throughout the industry. As a practicing lawyer, I regularly encounter these contracts in my work. The contracts discussed included band and management agreements, music publishing and label deals, collective licensing agreements, DIY distribution agreements, and sync placement deals. Understanding the nuances of these contracts is crucial for anyone involved in the music industry.

 Key Takeaways:

Throughout the seminar, we emphasized four key takeaways that will undoubtedly aid music professionals in navigating the complex landscape of music contracts:

1. Customization is Key: In most cases, a one-size-fits-all approach does not suffice when it comes to music contracts. Crafting bespoke agreements tailored to the specific circumstances at hand is essential. This necessitates a deep understanding of the desired outcomes, the roles and responsibilities of all parties involved, and the terms of compensation. By avoiding ambiguity and future complications, a well-crafted agreement becomes invaluable.
2. Standard Forms for Specific Cases: Large organizations such as collecting societies or DIY distributors often employ standard form agreements. These agreements outline their clearly defined services, ensuring uniformity for all parties involved. While such agreements may provide a starting point, it is crucial to review them carefully and make necessary modifications to protect individual interests.
3. Document Everything: Regardless of your position in the industry, it is essential to have written records of any agreements you make. Although a long-form agreement prepared and negotiated by a qualified legal professional is ideal, even an email trail can serve as a valuable reference point in resolving any misunderstandings that may arise.
4. Know Your Rights: A deep understanding of music rights is crucial for assessing the scope of coverage in any music agreement, particularly those involving licensing. By knowing your rights, you can identify the potential revenue streams and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Discussion Session and Participants:

Following the informative sessions, we engaged in an enriching discussion session. Approximately 60 music industry professionals from various countries in Central and Eastern Europe attended the seminar. These professionals represented diverse roles in the music industry, including managers, artists, and live promoters. Their active participation and thought-provoking questions demonstrated their dedication and commitment to their craft.

During the discussion session, participants were encouraged to share vital information about the music industry in their respective countries. This exchange fostered the creation of a valuable reference resource for all attendees, including details about prominent venues, main booking contacts for live performances, and the names of industry organizations and collecting societies.

Acknowledgments:

I would like to express my gratitude to Anca Lupes of RAW Music/Star Management Romania for considering me as a subject expert for this exceptional project. Additionally, I extend my thanks to Marianna Tanska and Tatiana Stadnyk, the project managers from Music Export Ukraine, for their exceptional efforts in organizing and facilitating the sessions. A special mention goes to Tatiana for her exceptional moderation skills during the discussion session, which extended beyond the allotted time and necessitated follow-ups via email to ensure all topics were covered.

Conclusion:

The training seminar on music industry contracts was a resounding success, leaving participants equipped with vital knowledge and insights to navigate the complex world of music agreements. I wish all the music industry professionals who attended the seminar every success in their future endeavors. By understanding the intricacies of music contracts and safeguarding their rights, they are well-positioned to thrive in the ever-evolving music landscape.