Rob Glass also tells us which Coachella acts he was excited for this year
This month, Media Arts Lawyers made history by being the first APAC-based firm to make Billboard’s 2024 Top Music Lawyers list.
According to TheMusic.com.au, the firm received the accolade due to its strong M&A work in the past 18 months; of note was the firm’s role in a deal wherein BMG snapped up the recorded music rights to Jet albums Get Born and Shine On.
Partner Rob Glass was among the lawyers that got a special shoutout, and he’s been celebrating the accolade in style in the US. In this interview, he talks to Australasian Lawyer about being at Coachella and helping Dom Dolla close a residency deal.
What made you choose a career in law, and what's your favourite part of the job?
I’ve been obsessed with music and its inner workings my entire life, and the law provided the perfect foundation to compliment my passion for music with the unique skills and experience you acquire as a lawyer. Procuring international deals for my clients that take their careers to the next level is exciting and rewarding.
How did you react when you learned that Media Arts Lawyers had been included in Billboard’s list?
Honoured that we had been recognised, incredibly thankful to my clients for entrusting me with their careers and grateful to have been given the opportunity to build upon the incredible music law practice that David Vodicka, Stephen King and Julian Hewitt created at Media Arts Lawyers.
Among your clients, which one would you say is the most memorable one?
That’s like trying to pick a favourite child! I’m fortunate to work with some of the best DJs, artists, producers, record labels and festivals in Australasia and beyond, every day is unique – there are too many memorable moments to mention!
Throughout your career, which has been the most interesting music law matter you’ve handled?
What interests me most is helping my clients navigate competing offers from multiple suitors to create a deal that supports and strengthens their trajectory with a long-term partner that helps them achieve their goals.
You’re currently in the US with clients – what has been the most exciting part of your trip thus far?
Watching Dom Dolla perform at his new 2024 residency at the freshly built LIV Las Vegas nightclub at Fontainebleau Hotel – we closed his Vegas residency deal earlier this year.
Which Coachella act are you most looking forward to?
There’s nothing better than watching your clients perform at a major festival – and Coachella is as big as it gets. This year we have Dom Dolla performing on both Friday and Saturday night, Flight Facilities, Coterie and The Beths.
If you weren’t in law, what do you think you’d be doing as a career?
Run a record label and moonlight as an art-dealer!
