Split Sheet Agreements in Entertainment Law: Protecting Creative Contributions and Future Royalties

In the world of music, film, and other creative industries, collaboration is the norm. A song may involve multiple songwriters, producers, and performers; a film may bring together directors, scriptwriters, and actors. Yet when the project succeeds, disputes often arise over who owns what and how income should be shared. This is where the split sheet agreement becomes indispensable.

A split sheet is a simple, usually one-page document that records the contributions of each person involved in a creative project. It answers the critical “WWH” questions: Who did what? What percentage of ownership belongs to each contributor? How should royalties and income be shared? By documenting these details at the outset, creatives avoid future conflicts and ensure that everyone receives fair recognition and compensation.

The importance of split sheets is rooted in copyright law. Under the Copyright Act, Cap C8, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004, authors of creative works hold exclusive rights to control reproduction, distribution, and communication of their works. Where a work is created jointly, Section 10 of the Act recognizes joint authorship, meaning each contributor has rights in the work. Without a split sheet, however, proving the extent of each person’s contribution can be difficult, leading to disputes and even litigation.

Courts have consistently emphasized the need for clarity in ownership. In Musical Copyright Society of Nigeria Ltd/Gte v. Compact Disc Technologies Ltd (2008) 10 NWLR (Pt. 1096) 349, the Court of Appeal reinforced the principle that copyright owners must be properly identified to enforce their rights. Similarly, disputes in the entertainment industry often hinge on whether contributors can prove their share in a project. A split sheet provides that proof, serving as both a contractual and evidentiary safeguard.

Practically, a split sheet should be signed immediately after a creative session or project. It should list all contributors, describe their roles (songwriter, producer, performer, etc.), and assign percentages of ownership. These percentages determine how royalties both mechanical (from reproductions like streaming and downloads) and publishing (from performances, broadcasts, and syncs) will be divided. For example, if two songwriters agree on a 60/40 split, that ratio governs how income flows whenever the song is commercially exploited.

For creatives, the message is clear: ignorance is not an excuse. Even if your contribution seems small a lyric, a melody, or a unique performance, if it is substantial, you are entitled to recognition and royalties. Protecting your future begins with insisting on a split sheet and, where necessary, consulting an entertainment lawyer versed in contract law to ensure the agreement is enforceable.

Ultimately, a split sheet is more than paperwork; it is a shield against disputes and a guarantee of fairness. In an industry where stories of exploitation abound, this simple document ensures that every creative voice is heard, valued, and rewarded.

Written by,
Temilorun F. Komolafe ESQ
ACIARB, MIMA (CERT), LLM (UK)
Principal at Amas and Rhod law