Considered ‘one of the absolute go-to firms’ in the music industry, Russells Solicitors is a highly knowledgeable and experienced music boutique that excels in both non-contentious and contentious matters, assisting a host of clients - from leading British and international artists, to major record labels and music-related individuals. The team is jointly led by Simon Esplen, Gavin Maude and Steven Tregear. Esplen acts for new and established artists, managers, songwriters and other industry players, while Maude, who specialises in commercial matters, advises major artists and industry executives on an array of non-contentious issues. ‘An industry legend’, Tregear leads the litigation team and has a wealth of experience in representing record and publishing companies, as well as artists, managers and promoters in a multitude of cases, from copyright infringement disputes to litigation involving royalty payments and defamation cases. Key support is offered by Alice Rudge and Elizabeth Scandrett, both of whom focus on high-profile music disputes. Chris Organ and Jo Brittain concentrate on advising talent, and Chris Gossage and Ryan Vince handle corporate and commercial matters in the music industry. These are also core areas of activity for Ally Horn, noted for representing award-winning bands. Recently promoted partner Dan Hoyle is the go-to for reputation and crisis management issues.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Russells are without question one of the most experienced and knowledgeable specialist teams in this sector. The firm has been a leading player in this field for decades, and justifiably so. Their understanding and knowledge of the music industry generally, and the main players in this sector, is outstanding.’
‘There are very few people with the deep knowledge, experience and understanding of this area of the law than Steven Tregear. He is incisive, pragmatic, very tenacious on behalf of his client, and with excellent strategic and tactical judgment. A true leader in his field. Alice Rudge also stands out: she is very able, and very bright indeed. She is an original thinker, analyses the issues in a case with great care and ability, and often spots points that others might have missed. ’
‘One of the very few music and media specialists in the market, Russells is one of the absolute go-to firms in this space. The team know their stuff inside out, in what is a surprisingly complex and niche area. Absolutely first rate client care, and a truly specialist knowledge is the standout feature of this firm.’
‘Steven Tregear is an industry legend, and someone with incomparable legal experience in the music and entertainment legal industry. Steven fights tirelessly for his clients, and is a creative thinker - coming up with clever and creative solutions, and never taking the default position for granted.’
‘One of a small number of firms with extremely experienced and well-connected music litigation departments. A choice for major record companies, independent labels, artists, agents, managers and so on. Delightful team to work with; flexible, pragmatic and highly commercial.’
‘Russells have a specialised and skillful team, many of which we deal with on a regular basis in the music and entertainment space. They are incredibly knowledgeable and are on up-to-date with the new laws and issues evolving in the industry. As well as being on the opposing side, we are also clients and can attest that their reputation is well earned and deserved. ’
‘Jo Brittain is a very tough and meticulous negotiator and certainly goes the extra mile for his clients, but is he also reasonable and fair. He is an excellent lawyer who engages with the party he is with negotiating with to attain the best position possible for his client but also knowledgeable about what is realistic in achieving that position in the market.’
‘Alice Rudge is just brilliant. She is an excellent strategic thinker and is wise beyond her years. Definitely one to watch for the future in music litigation. Steven Tregear is a titan in music litigation. He has extensive industry knowledge and is very commercially minded.’
Key clients
- Coldplay
- The Last Dinner Party
- Ezra Collective
- PULP
- Forever Living Originals / Inflo
- Andrew Lloyd Webber
- The Estate of George Michael
- The Estate of Amy Winehouse
- Florence and the Machine
- Mabel
- Arctic Monkeys
- Sam Fender
- Universal Music Group
- Warner Music Group
- Roger Waters
Work highlights
- Advised Forever Living Originals / “Inflo” on the ambitious and critically acclaimed live project “Acts of Faith” which featured the performances of R&B music collective project SAULT.
- Advising The Last Dinner Party on a variety of commercial matters throughout their breakout year.
- Acting for UMG Recordings, Inc in a claim brought by Declan Colgan Music Limited relating to the payment of royalties on streaming under a pre-digital contract.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Alice Rudge
Russells SolicitorsLeading 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.
Ryan Vince
Russells Solicitors
Jo Brittain
Russells SolicitorsPractice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Simon Esplen, Gavin Maude, Steven Tregear