How Session Musicians Get Paid, Especially for Playing on Big Hit Songs
Session musicians are highly skilled professionals who play a vital role in the recording industry. They are often responsible for providing the foundational elements of a song and can find themselves behind hit recordings. However, the question remains: how do these musicians get paid, especially when they play on a big hit song?
The Payment Structure for Session Musicians
Session musicians typically sign a work for hire contract. This means that they are paid a fixed rate for the specific session work they do. The compensation is agreed upon in advance, and musicians are compensated for the hours they spend recording. Many session players belong to a union, ensuring they receive fair compensation for their work.
There are also a select few highly sought-after session musicians who are often referred to as 'top of the heap' or 'first call' players. Names like Jon Mixon, Lee Sklar, Tim Pierce, Pino Palladino, Kenny Aronoff, Steve Gadd, and Abraham Laboriel fall into this category. These musicians often receive a premium for their work, reflecting the demand for their skills.
Royalties vs. Compensation
It's important to note that session musicians do not typically receive royalties on the recordings they create. Their compensation is based solely on the work they perform, and royalty payments, if any, accrue to the copyright holders, record labels, and the artist.
Sessions versus Permanent Roles
Unlike permanent band members, session musicians are hired for specific jobs. They attend the recording session and then leave, regardless of whether the album or single becomes a hit. There are rare instances where a session musician may accompany an artist on a tour, but this is not the norm.
Some notable session musicians, such as Thomas Dolby, Howard Jones, Greg Phillinganes, Ry Cooder, and Jill Sobule, are well-known for their skills and can make as much, or even more, money than some headlining artists. This is due to their demand in the industry and the fact that they do not have to incur the expenses that lead performers must, such as tours and performances. These musicians often have the flexibility to tour and earn additional income beyond their session work.
Conclusion
Session musicians are highly compensated for the work they do, but the payment structure differs from that of permanent band members or artists. Their compensation is negotiated upfront, and they earn by the session. Royalties, if any, are not part of their earnings, while high-demand session musicians can significantly increase their income through touring and other creative projects.