In their Billboard profile, Stephen Sessa offered the following advice on AI:

“Be cautious when using AI tools in your creative process,” Sessa says. “AI-generated content is likely to be considered copyright-free and in the public domain, which can make works that incorporate it unprotectable. While the legal framework is still developing, the current reality presents significant risks for artists and rights holders.”

A full list of Billboard’s 2025 Top Music Lawyers is available at billboard.com.

This recognition reflects Reed Smith’s continued leadership in high-stakes music transactions, talent representation, and emerging legal issues at the intersection of music, technology, and finance. The named attorneys represent a roster of globally renowned artists, music companies, investors, and entrepreneurs, and were recognized for their work on landmark catalog sales, major artist deals, and innovative digital rights structures. In the past year alone, the team has advised on more than $3 billion in music-related transactions, including the acquisition of iconic music catalogs, marquee recording agreements and renegotiations, and cutting-edge matters involving AI and music rights.

Reed Smith’s Entertainment & Media Industry Group is known for its integrated, cross-disciplinary approach—collaborating closely with the firm’s Corporate, Litigation, Tax and IP teams to deliver outstanding results for clients across the global music ecosystem. The group also counsels clients in the advertising, film and television, sports, technology, telecommunications, social media, and video gaming sectors.