Almost every recording artist at some point will hire a session musician or singer to enhance their recordings. A session musician release form is a critical legal document that outlines the terms of this collaboration. As a music attorney, I've seen how these agreements protect both the artist and the session player by clearly defining compensation, ownership rights, and the scope of work. Typically, these contracts establish the session as a "work for hire," granting the artist or label full ownership of the recorded performance. They also cover important details like payment terms, potential royalties, and usage rights. Having a solid session musician release in place helps prevent future disputes and ensures a smooth, professional working relationship in the studio.