Russells Solicitors is an expert in catalogue sales and has an enviable client base which includes major record companies, publishers, producers, agencies, established and up-and-coming artists and writers. Music head Gavin Maude works with artists and executives and focuses on emerging talent (an area in which Jo Brittain is further instructed), although is also well-placed to advise film production and digital start-up companies, while litigation head Steven Tregear specialises in copyright infringement, contractual and audit claims. Maude and Tregear co-head the practice with managing partner Simon Esplen, who represents various music clients on commercial and contractual matters. Other recommended individuals include Ryan Vince, who is known for building long-term relationships with entrepreneurial clients, corporate head Chris Gossage and senior consultant Chris Organ. Experienced litigator Henry Priestley joined from RPC in December 2022.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Russells are the best we have worked with - easily contactable and quick to react.’
‘They have a very diverse and strong client base and attract a considerable amount of new talent as their reputation and client roster is compelling.'
‘Jo Brittain is always available and very responsive. Though a very tough and thorough negotiator, he is fair and reasonable. He attracts very compelling clients as he is known as not only an excellent lawyer but as a music lover, who musicians and artists are able to relate to.'
‘Specialised and skillful team that is aware of everything from daily boiler-plate contract issues right the way up to complex corporate affairs and rights management.'
'We rate them highly for anyone seeking exquisite counsel in the music and entertainment space.’
‘Chris Gossage provides a professional and friendly service that is honest, considerate and strategic.'
'They're tough when they need to be, and they're extremely sharp with what's going on in the market. The next generation of talent coming through - including Alex Cole.'
‘The team are very up to date with new laws and issues. The associates support the partners incredibly well.’
Key clients
- George Michael’s Estate / George Michael Entertainment
- Coldplay
- Arctic Monkeys
- Florence and the Machine
- Universal Music Group
- Mabel
- Clean Bandit
- Roger Waters
- Foals
- Amy Winehouse’s Estate
- Kobalt Music
- Sam Fender
- Michael Ball & Alfie Boe
- Celeste
- Wolf Alice
- Domino Recording Company Ltd
- Sam Fender
- BMG Rights Management (UK) Ltd
- Primal Scream
- Warner Music Group
- Mika
- Stock Aitken Waterman
- Trevor Horn
Work highlights
- Advising Coldplay on its global touring arrangements for the ‘Music of the Spheres’ tour, including all supplier agreements, sponsorship agreements and arrangements surrounding the group’s related sustainability initiatives.
- Acted for the owners of Bob Marley’s music copyrights (Blue Mountain / Primary Wave / Blackwell Fuller / Fifty-Six Hope Road Music Limited) in High Court litigation commenced by Cayman Music Ltd.
- Advising Wolf Alice on its new recording arrangements with Sony.
Lawyers
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Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Simon Esplen, Gavin Maude, Steven Tregear