Thomas Valentino is a distinguished New York entertainment attorney whose practice operates at the intersection of entertainment law, music, media, and intellectual property. He represents accomplished artists, entertainment executives, music publishers, songwriters, producers, managers, and media technology companies in sophisticated contractual, transactional, litigation, and intellectual property matters. His practice encompasses complex contract negotiations, litigation and settlement strategy, asset monetization, rights management, and intellectual property licensing and protection.
Valentino advises clients on the legal, business, and financial dimensions of the entertainment industry, with a particular focus on protecting and maximizing the value of creative assets and intellectual property. He currently advises BMG Rights Management (US) LLC and has represented clients in negotiations and matters involving many of the industry's leading companies, including Paramount Global, Universal Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment, Warner Music Group, Reservoir Media, and HBO. His clients have included Academy Award and Grammy Award winners, as well as inductees of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
In addition to his legal practice, Valentino is a Professor of Music Publishing at Berklee College of Music. He previously served as a legal analyst for SiriusXM's FEEDBACK, providing insight and analysis on complex and high-profile legal issues affecting the entertainment industry. His legal and industry expertise has been featured or cited by Good Morning America, CNBC, The Observer, Condé Nast publications, PEOPLE, and other prominent media outlets.
Valentino has a longstanding record of leadership and service within the arts, entertainment, legal, and philanthropic communities. He currently serves as a Judge at Pace University's Elisabeth Haub School of Law. He is a former Board Member of the Musicians Treatment Foundation in Austin, Texas, and previously served for six years on the Board of Directors of the T.J. Martell Foundation for Cancer Research, where he was a leading fundraiser. He has advised UJA-Federation of New York, where he established the Music Visionary of the Year Award, and served on the Advisory Board of New York's PBS Networks. His additional service includes the Paley Center for Media, WNET/WLIW, and Media Rights, where he served as pro bono General Counsel to an organization dedicated to advancing short-form documentary filmmaking addressing social change and inclusion.
Throughout his career, Valentino has combined legal acumen with a sophisticated understanding of the entertainment business and the evolving nature of intellectual property. His practice reflects a commitment to protecting creative rights, navigating complex commercial relationships, and advancing the interests of individuals and companies whose work influences the cultural and media landscape.