In a special "Questions Answered" feature published in both the print and online editions, Billboard interviewed Manatt's Gary Gilbert, co-chair of the firm's Entertainment & Media Practice, about his work as one of Los Angeles' leading music lawyers.
Some of Billboard's questions for Gilbert included details about his first job, most memorable negotiation, lessons learned and advice for young music lawyers. When asked what will define his career in the coming year, Gilbert replied:
"I became co-chair not that long ago [in March], and I have to see that this department stays at the forefront, building and expanding by looking for new opportunities. From an internal standpoint, at the same time, we're involving all the related departments in what we're doing, finding new ways to synergize parts of the firm and serve clients. All of that helps me serve the client, which is the most important thing. Technology moves so fast that we're always lagging behind [in contracts]. My job is to maximize benefits for talent, and that's changing all the time.