Producer Agreement – Da Guvna’s Mansion (Yeah Young Productions, LLC)

By booking a session with Da Guvna’s Mansion (operated by Yeah Young Productions, LLC), you (“Client”) agree to the following terms and conditions. These terms ensure a clear understanding of our rate structure, royalty policy, branding/credit requirements, and other important details for your session and production services.

Booking & Rate Structure

• Rates and Services: All sessions are billed at the rates listed on our booking page or as quoted for your project. Rates may be hourly or flat-fee packages, covering the Producer’s time, studio facilities, and agreed services. Any additional services (session musicians, extra mixing, etc.) not included in the base rate will be discussed and priced upfront.

• Deposits: A 50% deposit is required to confirm and reserve a session. Booking is not secured until the deposit is received. The remaining balance is due by the start of the session (or as otherwise agreed in writing). We accept major forms of payment (credit card via the scheduling app, PayPal, etc.), and receipts will be provided.

• Payment Policy: Payment in full must be made for all booked time at or before the session. If a session runs longer than scheduled and our availability allows, extended time can be added at the prorated hourly rate. Payment for any overtime or added services is due at the session’s end. We reserve the right to withhold delivery of recordings (mixes, masters, session files) until the session is paid in full.

• No Refunds for Unused Time: You are responsible for the time that you book. If a session ends early or you do not use all the booked hours, the full session price still applies (studio time is scheduled and allotted based on your booking). We cannot always fill canceled time on short notice, so please book only the time you need.

• Rescheduling: If you need to adjust your booking (change the date or time), please contact us as soon as possible. We will do our best to accommodate changes, subject to availability. Repeated rescheduling or last-minute change requests may require an additional fee at our discretion.

Cancellation & Rescheduling Policy

• Notice Requirement: To cancel or reschedule a session without penalty, you must provide at least 48 hours’ notice prior to your scheduled start time. This allows us a chance to re-book the slot with another client.

• Late Cancellation: Cancellations made with less than 48 hours’ notice will result in forfeiture of your deposit and may incur a cancellation fee up to the full cost of the booked session. If you have not paid a deposit, you may be charged 50% of the session fee for late cancellation. This compensates the studio for the lost booking opportunity.

• No-Shows: If you fail to show up for a scheduled session without any notice (“no-call, no-show”), the full session fee will be charged. No-shows hurt our business and prevent others from booking that time, so no refunds or credits will be given in such cases. You may also be required to prepay in full for any future bookings after a no-show.

• Emergency Cancellations: We understand that emergencies happen. If an extreme circumstance (sudden illness, family emergency, etc.) forces a last-minute cancellation, please inform us as soon as possible. We may, at our discretion, apply your deposit as a credit toward a rebooked session rather than treating it as forfeited. However, this courtesy is case-by-case and not guaranteed.

• Studio Cancellations: In the rare event we need to cancel or reschedule (due to an unforeseen issue on our end), we will notify you immediately and offer to rebook the session at a mutually convenient time or provide a full refund of any payment/deposit you’ve made. We will not be liable for any additional damages or costs beyond refunding your session fee if we have to cancel on our side.

Session Rules & Client Responsibilities

• Punctuality: Sessions begin and end at the scheduled times. Please arrive on time (or a few minutes early to set up) so you can take full advantage of your booking. We cannot always extend sessions for late arrivals, and no time credit is given for time missed due to tardiness. If you are running late, please notify us; arrivals more than 30 minutes late without notice may be considered a no-show.

• Guests: You may bring a reasonable number of guests (artists, collaborators) to your session, but please notify us in advance if you plan to have more than 2-3 extra people. All guests must behave responsibly and respect studio rules. We reserve the right to limit the number of people in the studio for safety and to maintain an effective working environment.

• Conduct: Our studio is a professional, creative space. No smoking, vaping, or open flames are allowed inside the studio (a designated outdoor area can be provided if needed). No illegal substances or activities are permitted on the premises. The Client and their party must follow all instructions from the Producer/engineer regarding facility use. Disruptive or disrespectful behavior may result in early termination of the session at the Producer’s discretion, with no refund.

• Care of Equipment: Treat the studio gear, instruments, and facilities with care. The Client will be held financially responsible for any damage to studio equipment or property caused by the Client or their guests due to negligence, misuse, or abuse. (Normal wear and minor accidents are understood, but egregious damage or theft will be charged to you at repair or replacement cost.)

• Recording and Files: During the session, the Producer/engineer will handle all technical setup and recording unless otherwise agreed. After recording, we will provide you with reference mixes or final bounce downs as applicable. Bring a storage device (or have an email/transfer service ready) if you’d like to take copies of raw session files with you; otherwise, we will archive your project files for a limited time. We typically keep session files for at least 90 days, but cannot guarantee storage beyond that period. It is the Client’s responsibility to secure and backup the final deliverables once provided.

• Personal Property: The studio is not responsible for loss, theft, or damage to any personal property you or your guests bring to the premises. This includes instruments, equipment, hard drives, and personal items. Please keep track of your belongings. Any items left behind and unclaimed after 30 days may be disposed of or donated (we will attempt to contact you first if identifiable).

• Safety: For sessions involving minors (under 18), a parent or legal guardian must be present or have given written consent ahead of time. We prioritize a safe, inclusive environment for all clients. If at any point you feel uncomfortable or have concerns during the session, inform us immediately so we can address the issue.

Production Services & Deliverables

• Scope of Services: The Producer agrees to provide professional production services which may include recording, engineering, music production, beat/instrumental creation, mixing, and/or mastering as per your booking and agreement. The specific scope (number of songs, track editing, revisions, etc.) will be clarified with you before the session or in a project proposal. If your project requires tasks beyond the initial scope, we will discuss any additional fees or sessions needed.

• Creative Input: We encourage creative collaboration. The Producer will use their expertise to enhance your project, but final creative decisions (song structure, vocal takes, etc.) remain with the artist/client. You are hiring us for our skills and judgment; we ask for open communication. We’ll make rough mixes available for review, and minor adjustments (volume levels, effect tweaks) can often be done during the session. Larger changes or extensive remix requests after the session may require booking additional mix time.

• Revisions: For production and mixing work, we typically include a reasonable number of minor revisions (e.g. one or two rounds of notes) within the original fee, as long as they are requested within a set timeframe (such as 14 days after receiving the first mix). Major overhauls or revisions requested after final approval may incur extra charges. We want you to be happy with the result, so we will work with you, but also need to be fair with time spent.

• Final Deliverables: At project completion and once all payments are received, we will deliver the agreed final product (e.g. the final mix/master tracks in WAV/MP3 format). If multi-track session files or stems are requested, let us know in advance. We can provide session stems or raw tracks, but note that preparing stems is time-consuming; if not included in the original package, an extra fee may apply for stem bouncing. All final audio is delivered digitally (download link or physical drive you provide). We do not typically provide physical CDs unless arranged.

• Archiving: After final delivery, we may keep a backup of your project for a period, but we do not guarantee indefinite storage. It’s recommended that you maintain your own backups of all delivered files. We are not liable for master files after we’ve delivered them and a reasonable time has passed – be sure to download and save your files promptly when we send them.

Royalty & Recoupment Terms

• Producer Royalty ( “Points” ): In addition to upfront fees, Yeah Young Productions, LLC (the Producer) is entitled to a producer royalty on the master recordings we produce. Unless otherwise agreed in writing for a specific project, this royalty is set at 3% of the revenues from the sound recording (master) of the song(s) we produce. This is in line with standard producer “points” (typically 2%–5% in the industry)5. The producer royalty applies to sales, streaming revenue, and licensing income derived from the master recording of the track. (This does not include songwriting/publishing royalties – see below.)

• Recoupment of Costs: Producer royalties are payable only after the costs of production have been recouped. In practice, this means the Client/Artist must recover the expenses of creating the recording (such as any studio fees, session musician payments, and the producer’s upfront fee/advance) from the song’s earnings before the Producer starts to receive royalty payments. Once those costs are earned back, the Producer’s royalty will kick in retroactively from “Record One” – i.e., the Producer is then paid as if earning from the very first sale/stream of the recording. This ensures the artist covers their costs first, and then both parties share in further success.

• Advance Fee Treatment: Any upfront production fee paid to the Producer (included in your session or project rate) is considered an advance against royalties. For example, if we charge a discounted production fee in exchange for royalty participation, that fee is effectively an advance that must be recouped from royalties before additional royalty payments accrue. In essence, the Producer’s 3% royalty will start to generate actual payments only after the song’s earnings exceed the amount of the advance/fee.

• Royalty Payment Logistics: If your project generates significant revenue, it is the Client’s responsibility to account for and pay the agreed producer royalties (unless a record label or distributor handles this). We may sign a “Letter of Direction” if you later sign with a record label, instructing them to pay us our royalties directly, but until such arrangement, you (the Artist) agree to remit any owed producer royalties to Yeah Young Productions. Royalty statements (showing sales/streams) should be provided to the Producer semi-annually upon request once the music is released and earning revenue.

• No Royalties if Unreleased: If the music we produce is never released or does not generate revenue, no additional payments beyond the upfront fees are owed. Producer royalties only apply to actual revenue from commercial exploitation of the recordings. There is no “royalty minimum” or additional fee owed if a song doesn’t earn money.

• Songwriting & Publishing: This agreement covers production of the sound recording only, not the underlying musical composition. We make no claim to your songwriting unless explicitly negotiated. If the Producer significantly contributes to the writing (melody, lyrics, or fundamental composition) of a song, then a separate songwriting split or publishing agreement should be made. By default, all publishing rights remain with the original writers (you), and the Producer does not receive a share of songwriting royalties just by virtue of producing. Any voluntary contributions in songwriting by the Producer will be discussed and split amicably in a separate written addendum, if applicable.

Credits & Branding

• Producer Credit: The Client agrees to give proper production credit to “Yeah Young Productions” or the Producer’s name (“Sick Cuz Da Guvna”) on any liner notes, credits, or public descriptions when the music is released. This includes digital platforms (Spotify, YouTube, etc.) and any physical or press releases. A typical credit line would be: “Produced by Sick Cuz Da Guvna (Yeah Young Productions, LLC)” or similar. We will provide the exact credit wording if needed. This credit is a material requirement of this agreement and ensures the Producer’s work is acknowledged.

• Branding and Promotion: We may ask for permission to publicly mention our involvement in your project. With your consent, we might feature the song or artist name on our portfolio, website, or social media (e.g. a post that we produced the track, or a snippet of the music). We will not upload or share full unreleased songs without your approval. Typically, we might share short behind-the-scenes footage or a teaser, but always aligned with your release plans. Your image and brand are important – we aim to promote our work in a way that also promotes you. If you have specific requests (e.g. waiting until a release date to announce our involvement), we will absolutely respect that.

• Use of Logos/Name: You are welcome to refer to our studio/brand in your own publicity (for example, saying “recorded at Da Guvna’s Mansion” or tagging our social media). However, please do not use our company name, logo, or likeness in a way that suggests an official endorsement or partnership beyond the scope of producing your music, without written permission. Both parties should approve of any co-branding or logo usage in merchandise, music videos, etc., if it arises.

• Mutual Professionalism: We value our reputation and yours. Both the Client and Producer agree not to disparage the other party publicly. Any private concerns will be addressed directly between us. We find that maintaining a positive professional relationship benefits everyone – word of mouth matters in the music industry.

Ownership & Rights

• Master Recording Ownership: Once all agreed fees have been paid in full, the master recordings we produce for you become your property. The Client/Artist will hold the master rights to the sound recording. The Producer does not retain ownership of the masters; our interest in the recording is limited to the royalty rights and credit as specified. Simply put: you own the song’s recordings, and we have the right to be paid our small royalty on sales and to be credited as producer.

• Underlying Composition: You retain all rights to your lyrics, melodies, and underlying musical composition. This agreement does not transfer any copyright of the song itself. If the Producer has contributed to the songwriting and we have a separate agreement for that, the ownership of the composition will be split as per that agreement. In absence of a specific songwriting contract, we default that 100% of the songwriting belongs to you (or your writers) and 0% to the Producer.

• Work for Hire: Our production services are not a full buy-out work-for-hire in the traditional sense. By industry standard, producers who receive royalties are not purely work-for-hire. That means we do have continuing rights (royalties, credit) as described. However, aside from those reserved rights, for all practical purposes you have freedom to use and monetize the recordings. If a situation arises where a third party (like a label or distributor) needs a letter indicating you have the rights to use the masters, we can provide confirmation that you indeed own the master recordings and have the rights to license or sell them.

• Portfolio Rights: The Producer/Studio may keep a copy of the finished work and use excerpts for the purpose of showcasing our production work (portfolio, demo reel), but not for resale. This is a common practice to demonstrate quality of work to future clients. We will not release any full song publicly without your okay – usually just 15-30 second snippets for demo purposes, or a link to the already released song.

• Client Materials: Any media, tracks, or files you (the Client) provide to us for use in the project (e.g. instrumentals, vocals, samples) are understood to be owned or lawfully licensed by you. You represent that using these materials in your song will not infringe on others’ rights. If you provide a beat or sample that you don’t have rights for, inform us – we prefer to avoid legal issues. You hold responsibility for any copyright issues arising from material you supplied or requested to be used (see Indemnification below).

• Master File Release: We deliver the final mixes/masters to you for distribution. The Producer/Studio won’t exploit the masters except as allowed above. If down the line you want to remix or have another producer alter the recordings, that is entirely your decision (though we appreciate a heads-up). Our goal is for you to successfully release and profit from the music, with our role acknowledged.

Liability & Indemnification

• Limitation of Liability: We take great care in our work, but in the event of any loss, damage, or claim arising from our services, the Studio/Producer’s liability will be limited to the amount you paid for the session or project in question. We will not be liable for indirect or consequential losses such as lost potential profits, lost opportunities, or any damages beyond the fees you’ve paid us. For example, if a technical failure causes a recording to be lost, we can offer to re-record it at no additional charge, but we won’t owe further damages for that loss. (We do maintain backups and redundancies to prevent such issues.)

• Studio Damage/Injury: We maintain a safe facility. By booking, you acknowledge that working in a studio environment has typical minimal risks ( cables on the floor, loud sounds, etc.). The Client and any guests assume responsibility for their own safety and belongings. Yeah Young Productions, LLC and its staff are not liable for any injuries that occur on the premises, except in cases of gross negligence on our part. Please be mindful of your surroundings. Any damage you or your party cause to the premises or equipment, you agree to cover as noted in Session Rules.

• Indemnification: You (the Client) agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Producer and Da Guvna’s Mansion (Yeah Young Productions, LLC) from any third-party claims, liabilities, or costs (including reasonable attorney fees) arising out of your use of the recordings or your conduct. This includes, for example, claims related to unlicensed samples in your song, defamation in your lyrics, or other intellectual property disputes that might arise from the content you asked us to record/produce. In plain terms, if someone else sues over the content of the music, you’ll be responsible for dealing with it, not us. (Of course, if the claim is due solely to something we did without your direction, then we would take responsibility.)

• Force Majeure: The Producer/Studio is not liable for failure to fulfill obligations due to causes beyond our control (e.g. natural disasters, power outages, sudden illness, government restrictions, etc.). If an unforeseen event prevents a session or delays deliverables, we will communicate with you and reschedule as needed, and neither party will hold the other in breach under such extraordinary circumstances.

General Provisions

• Independent Contractor: Yeah Young Productions, LLC is an independent contractor providing services to you. Nothing in these terms constitutes a partnership, joint venture, or employment relationship between the Producer and the Artist/Client. Each party is responsible for its own taxes, insurance, and business operations.

• Confidentiality: We respect your privacy and artistic confidentiality. Any unreleased music or sensitive information shared with the Producer will be kept confidential. We will not share or leak your music prior to release. Likewise, we ask that you respect any confidential aspects of our business. This mutual respect helps build trust.

• Modification of Terms: These terms and conditions may be updated periodically. Notice of changes will be made by updating the terms on our website (with a new effective date). It is your responsibility to review the terms when booking new sessions. However, the terms in effect at the time of your booking will govern that booking. We aim to inform repeat clients of any major changes to terms.

• Governing Law & Venue: This agreement is governed by the laws of the State of Maryland. In the event of any dispute or legal action, and if not resolved by mutual discussion or mediation, the venue shall be the competent courts of Maryland, unless another location is mutually agreed. By agreeing to these terms, both parties consent to the jurisdiction of Maryland courts for such purposes.

• Entire Agreement: These terms constitute the entire agreement between the Client and Yeah Young Productions, LLC for the booked services, superseding any prior discussions or understandings (except any additional project-specific contract we both sign). Any amendments or additions must be in writing (email confirmations counted) and acknowledged by both parties.

• Acceptance: By clicking “I Agree” or checking the required box during booking on our Squarespace/Acuity scheduling page, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agree to all the above terms. This action constitutes your electronic signature and acceptance, equivalent to a signed hardcopy contract. If you have any questions or need clarifications about these terms, please contact us before booking. We’re happy to explain any part of this agreement to ensure your comfort and understanding.

Thank you for choosing Da Guvna’s Mansion for your music production needs. We look forward to making great music with you while ensuring a clear and fair agreement that protects both of us. Let’s create something amazing!