Independant Record Labels

You are now entering my thoughts and opinions on various topics surrounding the music industry.  With a strong focus on urban music and hip-hop, there will be no limitations of genres.  While I do enjoy new and good music, my personal interest is the business aspect.  The blogs will be informational; the goal is to give insight on how to be successful in the music business.  I will first begin to explain the benefits of starting an indie record label and its process.

While attending the Revolt Music Conference, I was able to get some insight from large corporations along with indie executives.  The biggest problem that we have now is monetizing music.  We live in a time where we can access music the second it comes out at no price at all.  This sets independent labels back even further.  Indie labels are usually limited on funds, which means many sacrifices.  The artist has to understand that they play a huge role in the profits the label receives.  Usually, there is no upfront money; if there is, it is usually less than 10k. The artist must consider promotion and miscellaneous things when deciding to take advance money.  The less they take upfront, the more that is invested in their career.  At independent labels, artists are very involved with the structure of their contracts.  Some are able to get 50/50 deals if done right.  Indies usually have a personal relationship with the artists because of the size.  I feel that starting your career with someone you trust and have a relationship with is helpful for a new artist.  Not only are you able to understand the business but you also are more entitled to your work.

As an executive, to be independent can be very discouraging.  The record sales only account for 30% and you usually use your own money to start the company.  You have to distribute and promote your artists with no help from the bigger companies.  Along with money, executives usually play multiple roles in the success of the company.  One day, you may be an artist manager, the next you could be an accountant.  You have to be well rounded, if your looking to build the label, you may even be an A&R agent during the process.  If you are still reading, there are benefits.  With the easy access to the world through social media, advertising costs can be cheaper initially.  It only takes one hit song to break into the industry.  Do not expect success right away, but know that there is a possibility for instant success.

There are many benefits with being independent, but it can be a very stressful process.  In order to choose your path you have to understand what you are looking to get out of your career.  It starts with a plan, write down your goals and begin to take the route that follows your vision!