If getting a record deal is your main aim, you’ll want to read the below articles. We look at all different aspects on getting signed, from how to get that record deal, to when it’s the wrong time to sign.
Drake has risen to become one of the most influential figures in hip-hop. His first three albums played a huge role in establishing him as an international star, but his follow-ups were no slouches either. Naturally, he’s had some help along the way, and he’s probably even been passed around by a couple of labels,…
Independent artists have been sending their demos to record labels since the dawn of time. Or at least the dawn of record labels. In this guide, you will learn the steps you need to follow to submit your demo to a record label to maximize your chances of success. Prepare Your Material Before you start…
A record contract represents the Holy Grail for many musicians. But even if you know what you want, it doesn’t mean you know how to get it, or for that matter, sign it. If you are presented with a record contract, best practice is to review the terms before signing, oftentimes with the help of…
In 1967, Bernie Taupin answered an ad placed in NME by Liberty Records calling for talent. Elton John (then Reg Dwight) answered that same ad. After auditioning, Elton John was given a pack of lyrics that had been sent to the label, and so began the writing relationship between Elton John and Bernie Taupin that…
As your musical career progresses, you will work with different people in the music industry in various roles. Many artists end up working with managers, booking agents in different territories, record labels in different territories, publishing companies, and publicists. These business arrangements can be set up in different ways – agents and publicists don’t usually…
UK is home to many legendary record labels, some independent, some major and many somewhere in between. Many of these labels were born out of the DIY punk movement in the late 70s, and that DIY ethos continues to inform the attitudes of labels today. It can be hard to know where to look when…
New York City has one of the most storied music scenes in the world, and it has an industry to match. Countless labels, publishing houses, agencies, management companies and promoters are based in New York. Of course, the big three labels have offices in NYC. So do most of their subsidiaries. But we’re going to…
There are thousands of record labels around the world putting out music every day – too many to keep track of. Big or small, record labels are an important part of the music industry’s ecosystem. They fund recordings, market them, distribute them, develop artists and disseminate music. Most labels are small operations putting out local…
What exactly is it that record labels do? Today, you can go about building a music career in a variety of ways. And, you don’t even need to rely on a label for your ultimate success. There are so many paths you can pursue that don’t involve a label. And, we even hear about artists…
Record labels are not dead. Even though people are more connected than ever, labels offer a framework that many independent artists find useful. These days, labels are more than just labels. Some manage artists, promote shows or even have their own streetwear brand – you get the idea! The modern label is about connections, clout,…
Looking for a record label in Nashville to potentially sign to? Or just want to see some record labels in the state of Tennessee? Well here are seven of Nashville city’s coolest independent labels. We show who they are, what they do, and what types of acts they tend to sign. Thirty Tigers – A…
There are a lot of good reasons to start a record label, whether you’re an artist or a music entrepreneur. You can increase your credibility inside and outside of the music industry. You can tap into more revenue sources, especially as an artist. You can begin to build a recognizable and influential brand. And, the…
Many artists aspire to be signed to their dream label, independent or major. Some still view this as the pinnacle of success in the music industry. Being signed has certain advantages, though most are unwilling to do a whole lot for you unless they see you as being a viable money-making opportunity. If they don’t…
If you feel like a 360 deal is the logical next step for your career, you probably aren’t alone in thinking that. It turned out to be a great career move for some bands like Paramore. So, if you know it’s something you want to do, how do you go about getting offered a 360…
Artists are offered a variety of deals and opportunities every single day. Unfortunately, there are plenty of legitimate looking businesses that simply prey on artists and their desire to become ultra-successful. Plus, email spam is commonplace in virtually everyone’s inbox unless you have amazing filters. Watch out for those just trying to get into your…