Creativity can incite trouble anytime if not properly managed especially in ‘split sheets’, when there is that element of collaboration. Recently, there have been several clashes on social media between music producers and artists over the issue of ‘split sheets’. This led to some Ghanaian music producers revealing that until recently, they didn’t know much about ‘split sheets’.
A Kenyan artist, Vivian, has said “artists are allergic to paperwork” and that can’t be put in any other way. Information from some music producers in Ghana suggests that, most music producers feel reluctant to discus royalty splits. However, they forget that navigating this type of conversation is a necessary to ensure they get paid for their work. More importantly, turning that conversation into a split sheet protects their rights. This can also save them from a potential legal battle in the future.
In general, every song is broken down into two. That is a writer’s share (lyrics) and a producer’s share (music or beats). Each share is worth 50% of the song. To get that percentage, there must be a split sheet between stakeholders involved. This will identify each contributor as well as establish specific ownership percentages. The shares can be broken down even further if there are additional contributors. However, the same creator can contribute to both shares. The parties then agrees on the final percentages.
IMPORTANCE OF SPLIT SHEET
Nonetheless, split sheets are an essential safeguard for creators. It ensures that creators gets proper compensation for the collaboration. In a recent interview, Ghanaian music producer, Ephraim Musiq noted that he hasn’t received any royalties from Sarkodie. Ever sine he joined in producing his ‘Mary’ album. This is because they never signed any spilt sheet. However, when he signed one with Stephanie Benson, he has been receiving 50% of the royalties. Ephraim missed his opportunity to get revenue since he didn’t sign a split sheet with Sarkodie. This clearly shows how important split sheets are and why it shouldn’t be taken for granted.
Split sheets can also save creators from a potential legal headache. This is because, it requires them to come to an agreement. It also establishes their ownership in writing, which they can refer back to or supplied to third parties if necessary.
One way to annihilate this issue is through extensive education on split sheets. Alliance for Change in Ghana Music (AFCGM), have noticed this issue and are yet to educate stakeholders on split sheets.
Vivian, the Kenyan artist, however, expressed a concern revealing that artists will show up for all the “wrong forums”. She averred that “I think that is why we remain behind. If you called artists for a happy hour with free drinks you will get 500. But only about five will show up for a seminar on split sheets”.
Such seminars can therefore be innovatively organized to appeal to more artists and producers. For instance, organizing a music festival which will actively involve both parties. During the program, there will be section for sensitizing them on split sheets. Also, they can employ infographics to educate the artists and producers. Especially, at events like music award shows, where a large number of them are expected to attend.
Understanding the value of your work as a creator, especially before publishing, is vital to your overall success. It is paramount to be proactive and use split sheets to secure a fair share of the revenue.
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