Members snaresmacker Posted August 12, 2004 Members Posted August 12, 2004 Hey, I've been in my band for nearly 3 years now. Recently, the other two members decided they didn't like me anymore and told me they are bootin' me out. But that's ok, because i've been having some problems with them and was considering removing myself anyways. Anywho, here's my question: over 2 years ago, we recorded our first album. the 3 of us split the cost--$240 each. That was considered our initial investment in the band... we then opened a bank acount and the band was financed through selling CD's, tshirts, etc. we made more than enough money to pay ourselves back, but decided just to leave the money there for future band road trips, merch, expensises, etc. 6 months ago, we recorded again. we've also done a lot of road tripping and have been paid for basically none of the gigs (thanks to my moronic bandmates scheduling unpaying shows out of town). now we have basically no money in the account. now that i am quiting, should i get my $240 back? what is the fair way to handle this?? thanks a lot!!!
Members Inazone Posted August 13, 2004 Members Posted August 13, 2004 Honestly, I'd say that you probably shouldn't expect to get your money back. Your $240 investment wasn't wasted -- it was used to record that first album, and eventually paid for more recording and merchandise as well. All in all, that relatively small investment resulted in several tangible end-products that you can always point at and say "I did this". Unless you and your ex-bandmates signed some sort of contract back when you chipped in your cash, I don't see you being entitled to get it back.
Members BlueStrat Posted August 13, 2004 Members Posted August 13, 2004 I agree. Let it go and move on. 240 bucks is pretty cheap for a great lesson learned.
Members acesclone Posted August 13, 2004 Members Posted August 13, 2004 I agree that you are pretty much screwed. However if they are still selling cd's with you(and your songs) on them you deserve something IMO. The best way to approach them is to ask for a "severance" for your future rights to any money. Then again if you see this music going somewhere it is time to get a lawyer.
Members miles to go Posted August 13, 2004 Members Posted August 13, 2004 I agree with those above. As soon as any money is brought into the equation, you need to sign a band agreement. There are any number of ways to handle band finances and putting it in writing is the best way to avoid misunderstandings. My favorite analogy: If a band is like a marriage, then the band agreement is the prenup.
Members snaresmacker Posted August 14, 2004 Author Members Posted August 14, 2004 yeah, i would agree with all you guys. thanks for the replies. i just thought i'd ask in case any one happened to have a real good idea of an exuse to give them to pay my $240 :D . Hahahaha.
Members THB Posted August 19, 2004 Members Posted August 19, 2004 Yeah, easy come, easy go. I'm down several thousand with my band. $240 is a bar tab. :-)~
Members fuzzball Posted August 20, 2004 Members Posted August 20, 2004 Consider the money gone. I would look into an agrement on the merchandise, only problem is how can you know how many CD's they sold. I think your best bet would be to ask for a severance package, or to no longer use the items you were part of.
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