Ongoing History of New Music

Ongoing History Daily: Was this the worst record contract of all time?

One of the worst record contracts ever signed was between the Stone Roses and their first label, a company called Silvertone. Under the terms of this contract, Silvertone had the right to license any merchandise they wished without the band’s approval. They could also terminate the contract at any time they wished without notice. However, the Stone Roses had no such out clause on their end.

Here’s the best part: The contract stated that the Stone Roses were the property of Silvertone for “the entire world and the solar system.”

Fortunately for the Roses, a judge ruled that the contract was little one-sided and unfair and he released them from the deal.

Missed the post yesterday? It looked at the story behind Pearl Jam’s weirdest song. And don’t forget to check out my podcast The Ongoing History of New Music where you listen on SpotifyApple PodcastsGoogleStitcher, or wherever you get your on-demand audio.

Alan Cross

is an internationally known broadcaster, interviewer, writer, consultant, blogger and speaker. In his 40+ years in the music business, Alan has interviewed the biggest names in rock, from David Bowie and U2 to Pearl Jam and the Foo Fighters. He’s also known as a musicologist and documentarian through programs like The Ongoing History of New Music.

Alan Cross has 39372 posts and counting. See all posts by Alan Cross

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