But new artists generally sign deals that give labels the electronic rights to their works.

We who used to call ourselves writers and now defend our electronic rights as "content providers" shall prevail.

About 10 years ago publishers began specifying electronic rights in their contracts.

To acquire the electronic rights to books, Barnesandnoble.com is expected to announce today a higher royalty rate than any other major publisher currently offers.

Publishers are fighting with authors and agents over who will control the electronic rights to books, and for what price.

Now, the electronic rights to a well-known encyclopedia may cost up to $250,000.

Standard contracts give publishers electronic, foreign and movie rights.

The union is also publishing a book of guidelines for writers that will deal with electronic rights.

Under the terms of the deal, Microsoft would acquire exclusive electronic rights to the Bible.

Personally, I doubt that most writers will see big money from electronic rights any time soon.