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[For my newer readers, this post is a continuation of a series relaying the story my record deal in Nashville back in 1996. You can start this story from the beginning, or catch up with any posts you may have missed by going to the Record Contract Index page. You will be able to navigate through the story from there.]

I called Matt and relayed Al Cooley’s message to him. He was just as thrilled as I was at the prospect of signing directly to Atlantic Records. After we spoke I called Doug and Jerimy in Oklahoma.

I clearly explained the situation. They were a bit concerned about keeping quiet for the next two days, but didn’t foresee any problems. They agreed that if questioned by Delious or Jeff, they would simply say they were waiting to see what our lawyer had to say.

Then I called Stephen. I knew he was going to be the hardest to convince, as he had basically been cheerleading for Delious since the first meeting. He remained quiet while I laid out the details of my discussion with Al. When I finished, he simply said, “Well, if you guys want to wait, I’ll go along with you.”

I slept soundly that night. As soundly as I had since the day I received the first draft of the contract.

The phone woke me bright and early. It was Matt on a conference call with Robin Mitchell Joyce, our attorney.

“We have a problem, Paul,” Matt said quickly. “Robin got a new contract from Delious this morning.”

“Why is that a problem?” I asked. “We just have to wait until tomorrow and everything will be fine.”

Robin interrupted me, “The problem is that the copy they faxed to me has three of your band member’s signature on it. There is a note attached that says you have until 5pm today to sign the contract and fax it back or they will rescind the offer and replace you.”

“Shit.”

“Yeah, shit.” Matt agreed.

“Well, what do you think we should do? You are our attorney,” I asked.

“I can’t tell you guys what to do, I can only tell you that the contract hasn’t changed. These production deals are common place in pop music and with LA record companies. They are unheard of here in Nashville. Record companies here like to do business in a pretty transparent and above the board way. Off the record, I hope you guys stand your ground and send a message that we don’t want these production deals mucking up our system.”

Matt and I thanked her, and promised to be in touch later in the day.

My head was swimming and I needed to think, I needed advice, and I really needed a margarita. It was only 9am, but I knew just where I could find one: Hoss’s house.