Q: In some cases, will a talent manager that has ties to, let's say Atlantic Records, charge an upfront fee?
In some cases, will a talent manager that has ties to, let's say Atlantic Records, charge an upfront fee for their services? I'm aware it may not be common, but could it still be legit? For starters, me and my team reached out to him to pitch my music. He ended up really liking me and a scheduled phone call took place. He talked about the what ifs, and expressed his interest, followed by sending a contract over for review. He still was interested in working regardless of our decision but told us that due to some past experiences, he charges a management fee of $350. So far we have sent him $50 to test the waters, and he doesn't seem in a rush for money. He does say however, to move forward with promotion and business, he'd like to be sent the remaining $300 to abide by the contract. Atlantic Records LLC was also mentioned in the contract pertaining to the percentage of what they'd be taking from my gross earnings. Not sure if that matters or not.
A: No, talent agents do not charge their clients upfront fees. A talent agent only gets paid a commission if and when he/she secures a job for their client.
A:
It is generally not common for a legitimate talent manager to charge an upfront fee for their services. However, there may be some cases where a manager with ties to a major record label, such as Atlantic Records, may charge an upfront fee for their services.
It is important to carefully review any contract or agreement that you are asked to sign and to ensure that you understand the terms and conditions. If a manager is asking for an upfront fee, it is recommended that you ask for a detailed breakdown of the services that will be provided and the fees that will be charged.
It is also important to be aware of any red flags or warning signs that may indicate that the manager is not legitimate. For example, if the manager is pressuring you to sign a contract or pay an upfront fee without providing clear information about their services, this may be a warning sign.
If you are unsure about the legitimacy of a talent manager or the terms of a contract, it is recommended that you consult with an attorney who specializes in entertainment law. The attorney can review the contract and advise you on the best approach for your specific situation.
Overall, it is important to be cautious and to do your research when working with a talent manager or any other professional in the entertainment industry.
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