Lee & Thompson LLP‘s music group is led by music specialist Lawrence Engel, who advises recording artists, songwriters, producers, DJs, and music managers. The wider team also represents established heritage acts, major current artists, and emerging music talent in a mix of litigation and commercial work. Martyn Bailey is a leading music litigator acting for record labels, publishers, artists, and managers, while Will Everitt advises clients on music industry contracts and IP issues, as well as live events and touring arrangements for artists. Lizzie Payne-James and Tim Fowler are also notable artist lawyers. Furthermore, the practice has assisted with music-related investments, contractual issues, new label launches, and recording arrangements. Gordon Williams is well-known for his music litigation work. Liv Lyons left the firm in February 2025.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
'Lee & Thompson boast good market knowledge that is critical in the music industry, coupled with a team of expert lawyers and advisers.'
'Will Everitt is a fantastic lawyer and adviser. Exceptional market knowledge across all areas of the music industry, providing insightful and commercially astute guidance. If there was a 'hero's trophy' for music lawyers I would nominate Will.'
‘Mark Stafford has a fine grasp of the music business and the rights involved and can always be trusted or provide the right advice. Great with clients. The firm's knowledge of the sector is up with the best.’
‘Lee & Thompson has expertise across the creative industries: whether the dispute concerns film/TV, music, or general commercial matters within those industries, Lee & Thompson has you covered.’
‘Martyn Bailey is a music specialist, he has acted on very high-profile cases in his field and is a go-to solicitor in this field.’
‘Lee & Thompson continues to retain a hugely impressive client roster, and to provide excellent advice and representation to clients working in the music industry.’
Key clients
- Harry Styles
- Dave
- Dermot Kennedy
- Craig David
- Depeche Mode
- Rita Ora
- Myles Smith
- Sir Karl Jenkins
- Jade Thirlwall
- Laura Marling
- Olivia Dean
- Syco Entertainment
Work highlights
Advised Myles Smith on all matters, including his recording contract with RCA Records, culminating in his Brit Award win as Rising Star.
Represented Enhanced Music in its investment from Create Music and connected distribution arrangements.
Represented David Dollimore in his new label venture with Capitol Records US.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
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Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Lawrence Engel
Other key lawyers
Martyn Bailey; Will Everitt; Lizzie Payne-James; Tim Fowler; Mark Stafford; Dominic Bray; Frania Cooper; Gordon Williams