LINKS Even though Billy Murray freelanced for various record companies between January 1919 and July 1920, the Victor Talking Machine Company still maintained a certain level of control over him. In this agreement dated October 1, 1919, he was to allow Victor the first choice of new material. It was to last until 1922, but this contract was likely terminated after he went into a new five-year agreement on July 1, 1920. The main points of each paragraph are outlined below for easier reading.
Paragraph 1: This contract is to last from October 1, 1919 to October 1, 1922. Paragraph 2: Murray was to make records for Victor at mutually convenient times, and remake any material if necessary. He was permitted to select his own songs as long as they were approved by a representative of the company, but also agreed to record material when assigned to. He was also to sing in large ensembles, attend rehearsals when necessary, keep the company informed of new material he was performing, and keep the company informed of new talent. Although he was allowed to record for other companies, the key statement which sets this company apart (in the last two lines) is to " …give the Victor Company the first option and opportunity of recording such new material."
Paragraph 3: Victor retains all rights to the advertising and selling of his Victor masters, including the use of his name and publication of photographs in advertising them. (Murray was not entitled to the copyright of his masters.) Paragraph 4: Murray was to receive $5,000 per year, in monthly payments, beginning on November 1, 1919. The value for each approved master is as follows: $100 for solos, $50 for duets or trios, and $25 for ensembles (including the American Quartet, the Victor Light Opera Company, and brief vocal refrains for dance bands). If he recorded over $5,000 worth of approved masters each year, he would receive the additional amounts as stated for solos, duets, trios, and ensembles. If he attended a rehearsal, but no approved masters were made as a result, he was not paid for that rehearsal.
Paragraph 5: Murray was not to sign any other agreement similar to this one for any company that would prevent him from making Victor records. Paragraph 6: If Murray died, or became disabled in a way that prevented him from making Victor records, he would not get paid. (No compensation!) Paragraph 7: This agreement is binding, and any previous agreements made between Murray and Victor is null and void. |
