360 Deals

360 deal (also known as an all-rights deal) is a contract between a recording artist and a record label where the label receives a percentage of the artist’s earnings from multiple revenue streams, not just recorded music sales.

These agreements allow labels to profit from various aspects of an artist’s career, including:

  • Music publishing royalties
  • Live performance earnings
  • Merchandise sales
  • Endorsement deals
  • Book, movie, or TV licensing
  • Ringtone and digital sales

360 deals became popular as record labels sought to offset declining album sales by sharing in an artist’s broader income. While they provide financial backing and career support, they also mean artists give up more control over their earnings.

For musicians, understanding 360 contracts is crucial before signing—ensuring fair terms and long-term career sustainability.

For more music industry insights, explore Recognition.’s Glossary of Music Publishing Terms.