With over 20 years in the music industry, singer/songwriter turned music lawyer Ryan Schmidt, Esq. knows this business like the back of his hand.

Blending real-world artist experience with specialized legal training, Ryan helps artists and music professionals navigate the business with confidence. His law practice focuses on negotiating artist-friendly deals, drafting and reviewing contracts, and guiding clients through complex industry agreements—from record and publishing deals to catalog sales and licensing.​

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As a touring artist, Ryan was featured on NBC’s The Voice and earned honors like “Critics’ Choice” at the Starbucks Music Makers Competition. His firsthand experience with restrictive contracts and industry red tape inspired him to become the kind of lawyer he wished he'd had—one who truly puts artists first.

A summa cum laude graduate of Nashville's Belmont University College of Law, Ryan graduated  top of his class and served as an Executive Officer of the Belmont Law Review. Before launching his Georgia-based solo practice, he trained under a leading Nashville entertainment law firm representing major artists and rights holders in music, visual arts, and digital media.

Today, Ryan represents clients nationwide—ranging from rising independents to industry legends. Whether helping artists sign their first deal or renegotiating their next one, Ryan’s mission remains the same: to help creatives protect their art and build sustainable careers—on their terms.