Simkins LLP is well-versed in advising a wide array music industry clients, from talent and estates of renowned artists, to music companies and record labels. Catalogue acquisitions and sales are a key focus of the team, alongside drafting and negotiating rights agreements. The group has specialised expertise in tax and estate planning for musicians and represents clients in issues before the copyright tribunal. On the disputes side, the practice frequently represents clientele in copyright and contract law litigation. The firm also aids artists seeking out assistance for live events and touring arrangements. Practice head Euan Lawson leads on contractual and copyright issues, as well as matters involving the taxation of entertainers. Nick Eziefula is noted for his artist law work, advising on commercial issues, while Ed Baden-Powell assists with rights deals, Paddy Gardiner excels in music-related disputes, and Ed Weidman focuses on contractual matters. Tom Iverson handles a mix of media disputes and defamation cases.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Excellent team - Ed Weidman in particular stands out.’
‘Always had a 100% great experience with Simkins. Superb attention to detail and you come away with a sense of confidence and security in the deals that give great comfort and freedom to move forward.'
‘Ben Gisbey has always acted for me and always delivered 110%. Great understanding and perception of what's required to get everything over the line, and is relentless to pursue the right outcomes and keep going until the job is finished.’
‘The music team at Simkins is extraordinary in providing a holistic understanding of the legal aspects as well as best practices in the music industry.’
‘I have mainly worked with Nick Eziefula and Rachael Heeley. Both are very competent and perceptive. Nick has helped me tremendously in helping me understand the legal and commercial aspects of music deals. Nick and Rachael have been extremely perceptive and they have truly helped me add value to my organisation by helping me prioritise and structure negotiations with challenging counter-parties.'
‘I value Simkins highly for a number of reasons; they know my business well and therefore give pragmatic commercially focused advice and in litigation they are practical and get to the nub of the issue. They can move very quickly, and are personable and accessible.’
Key clients
- P!NK
- Experience Hendrix
- Sony Music
- Virgin Music Group
- Universal Music Group
- Performing Rights Society
- Da Beatfreakz
- Wilkinson
- Iron Maiden
- Eleven Management
- Nick Mulvey
- Jess Gillam MBE
Work highlights
Advised Virgin Music Group on its acquisition of Outdustry.
Advised the Performing Right Society on a reference by UK Cinema Association Ltd to the Copyright Tribunal related to a licensing scheme under which PRS licenses the public performance of its members’ repertoire at cinemas.
Represented the Estate of Jimi Hendrix and Sony Music in a multi-million pound claim for ownership of copyrights, related rights, and royalties asserted by heirs of Jimi’s former bandmates in The Jimi Hendrix Experience.
Lawyers
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
Euan Lawson
Other key lawyers
Ed Weidman; Ben Gisbey; Nick Eziefula; Rachael Heeley; Paddy Gardiner; Ed Baden-Powell; Tom Iverson; Jessica Welch