Our process
One process, several possible deals
Most people come to us thinking about a sale. Many leave with a different structure: a licence advance that keeps their ownership, a buyout that gets them out of an unrecouped contract, or an advance that pays them while they stay in their deal. We compare the options first, then run the one that fits.
The timings below are typical ranges, not promises. They depend on your documents, your contracts and how quickly labels or co-owners respond.
The six stages
Confidential first call
Typical time: 30 minutes, then a few days to follow up
We talk about your catalog, your contracts and what you want: cash, independence, less admin or a full exit. We tell you honestly whether we can help.
What you do: Explain your goals and answer a few questions. Sign an NDA if you want one before sharing anything.
Documents: None required. A recent statement helps if you have one.
Document review
Typical time: 1 to 2 weeks
We check what you own, what is being collected and what your contracts allow, so there are no surprises later.
What you do: Send the documents on the list and answer our follow-up questions.
Documents: Two to three years of royalty statements, contracts with labels, distributors or publishers, track and song lists with ISRC or ISWC codes, split sheets.
Options and valuation range
Typical time: 1 to 2 weeks
We model the structures that fit, for example a sale against a licence advance, or a buyout against a royalty advance, with a realistic range for each.
What you do: Choose which option to take to market, or decide to do nothing.
Documents: Any extra detail we ask for, such as unrecouped balances or previous advances.
Preparation and outreach
Typical time: 2 to 4 weeks
We prepare an anonymised teaser and an organised data room and approach the right buyers or capital partners from our network of 40+ in 15 countries.
What you do: Approve the materials before they go out. Your identity stays confidential until an NDA is signed.
Documents: We prepare the materials from what you already sent.
Offers and negotiation
Typical time: 2 to 6 weeks
We collect offers, compare them on price, structure and terms, and negotiate on your behalf.
What you do: Choose the offer you prefer with our advice. Nothing is signed without your approval.
Documents: Answers to buyer or partner questions during due diligence.
Contract and closing
Typical time: 2 to 4 weeks
We work with your lawyer on the final contract and coordinate payment and the transfer of income with distributors, societies or labels.
What you do: Review and sign the contract with your lawyer. Confirm payment details.
Documents: Signed agreements, letters of direction and any registrations the deal requires.
Fees
BeatBridge is success-fee only. There are no upfront fees, no retainers and no charge for the first call or the review. We are paid only when a deal closes, from the proceeds.
If after reviewing your catalog the best option is to keep it as it is, we will tell you, and it costs you nothing.
The structures we run this process for
Each page explains the structure in detail, who it fits and what we review.
- Unrecouped deal buyouts Get out of an unrecouped label or distribution deal and keep cash.
- Distribution licence advance An advance on your back catalog for a 5 to 25 year licence.
- Royalty advances Get paid now while you stay in your deal.
- Sell your masters Full or partial sale of your recordings.
- Publishing deals Admin, co-publishing or a sale of your songs.
- Back catalog distribution Move released music to a better deal, with or without an advance.
- For buyers Deal flow for investors, funds, publishers and labels.
- Sell your music catalog: the complete guide Every step of a sale explained in depth.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the whole process take?
A well-prepared catalog often closes in two to four months from the first call. Buyouts that need a label's approval can take longer.
Do I have to pay anything upfront?
No. We work on a success fee only, paid when a deal closes. The call, the review and the options are free and without obligation.
Am I committed once I start?
No. You decide at every stage whether to continue. Nothing is signed without your approval.
Will my label or buyers know who I am?
Not until you decide. We share an anonymised summary first and disclose your identity only to parties who have signed an NDA, and only with your agreement.
Start with a confidential call
Thirty minutes, no obligation. We will tell you which structures could fit.
Related guides
This page is general information and not legal, tax or financial advice. Timelines and outcomes depend on your contracts and a review of your catalog.