
ABOUT
Michael T. Barkoff is Senior Counsel at Eisner, LLP, where he advises artists, songwriters, producers and other music and entertainment industry clients on the legal and business issues that shape their careers.
Michael represents both established and emerging talent, as well as managers, executives, record labels, music publishers, production companies, investors and brands. His practice spans the full range of music transactions, including recording and publishing agreements, touring and performance agreements, endorsements, management and merchandise deals, licensing and distribution arrangements, and copyright acquisitions.
A particular focus of Michael’s practice is helping creators protect, control and maximize the value of their work as the ways music is created, distributed and monetized continue to evolve. He works closely with clients not only as deal counsel but as a strategic advisor, helping them evaluate opportunities, manage risk and build sustainable businesses around their creative careers.
Michael’s connection to the music industry began as an undergraduate intern at Atlantic Records. He later earned his J.D. from Fordham University School of Law, where he served as President of the Media & Entertainment Law Society and as an Associate Editor of the Fordham Intellectual Property, Media & Entertainment Law Journal. He received his B.S., with Highest Distinction, from Pennsylvania State University.
Michael has been recognized by New York Super Lawyers as a Rising Star in Entertainment & Sports.
PANELS
Artist Rights, Revenue & Risk in 2026
As the music business grows more complex, artists face new challenges around AI, catalog monetization, deal structures/economics, reputation management and long-term rights protection. This panel explores the evolving legal and business landscape shaping artist careers—and the strategies artists and their advisors are using to navigate it.
Friday, October 16, 2026, 4:35 PM

