Farrah A. Usmani

My focus

I work with music-driven creatives to develop growth strategies that preserve copyright ownership and creative control. I also advise clients on structuring and negotiating record deals, music publishing contracts, catalog sales, executive employment agreements, and matters related to every facet of live music production. I also serve as outside counsel to entertainment companies invested in the music business.

Recorded Music & Publishing

I negotiate recording agreements, distribution agreements, publishing agreements,  and catalog sales on behalf of musicians, songwriters, and producers. I’ve worked with virtually every major record label and music publisher, as well as IP investment companies that deal in the acquisition of music copyrights. Additionally, I have ample experience helping artists build independent careers. As new tools continue to emerge that help artists connect with their fans directly, I’ve leaned into developing strategies that help artists maintain control of their rights, especially in cases where traditional methods of monetization and artist development don’t make sense.

Concerts and Touring

I have substantial experience putting together deals in the live music space.  I routinely negotiate agreements with the world’s leading concert promoters, talent agencies, music venues, festivals, and live-streaming platforms.  I work closely with my clients and their teams to develop strategies that grow merchandise and ticket sales on the road. I am also well-versed in negotiating tour sponsorship and endorsement agreements between artists and brands.

Music Industry Executives

I provide legal advice and support to executives in the music industry.  I’ve helped top talent agents, streaming platform executives, record label personnel, and music managers navigate their employment contracts at some of the most influential institutions in the business. I leverage my experience and relationships to get the best results for my clients.

Looking ahead

I think the crypto art market will continue to be a point of interest for creatives in the music business. I also anticipate that as the music industry becomes more data-driven, artists will seek new ways to monetize their art beyond traditional formats and partners.

Insights

Classes Taught

• Guest lecturer at the HUBB Conference hosted by Creative Artists Agency (CAA), 2022 
• Guest lecturer at Tennessee State University as part of its Music Accelerator Program, sponsored by the Black Music Action Coalition (BMAC), Wasserman Music and the RIAA, 2022
• “Introduction to Music Law,” Vanderbilt University, 2021
• “Introduction to Music Law,” Vanderbilt University, 2020
• “Intro to Music Business” Middle Tennessee State University, 2020
• “Introduction to Music Law,” Vanderbilt University, 2019
• Guest lecturer at the HUBB Conference hosted by Creative Artists Agency (CAA), 2019
• “Navigating the Music Industry,” Indiana University, 2018
• “Music Industry Contract Law,” Belmont University, 2017

Presentations

• "Navigating Fair Use: A Survey of Today’s Legal Landscape,” Nixon Peabody 2023 California MCLE Virtual Seminar, January 19, 2023
• Panelist, “Hip-Hop/R&B In Nashville” Belmont University, Nashville, 2022
• Panelist, “Non-Country Nashville” , Young Entertainment Professionals (YEP), Nashville, 2021
• “Beyond the Basics: Contracts & Financials,” International Entertainment Buyer’s Association (I.E.B.A), 2016