Signing with a record label used to be the be-all and end-all of the music industry. Releasing and publicising music was very expensive, and only record labels were able to afford it. Yet, with the advent of streaming, you now don’t have to work with a record label, although it is still advantageous for some artists. This blog will help you decide whether you should pursue a record deal. 

A Label Does Not Guarantee Success

Back in the 90s, a record label was a near guarantee of success as labels had a monopoly on music promotion. They could influence what was played on the radio and what made it into the charts. Now, artists have the power of self-promotion through social media, which dilutes record labels’ marketing. Going viral now has much more power than a conventional marketing campaign, and you don’t need a label to be successful on social media.

Loss of Creative Control

As an independent artist, you are free to release anything you want. This disappears when you sign on with a record label, which must sign off on everything before you release it. Losing creative control is a big problem if you want to release music that breaks new ground or has a political message. 

However, it is also worth remembering that a label is a great chance to have a second pair of ears. They can ensure that your work reaches the right quality levels. 

Complex Contracts

If you decide to sign on with a record label, you will be under a contract packed with confusing legal jargon. It can be unclear how much creative control you will have, how much you will be paid, and what rights to your music you will waive. Meanwhile, most record labels have a specialised team of lawyers to ensure the contract benefits the label.

Sometimes, signing on with a label is the right move. However, hiring a lawyer to ensure you are represented and can fully understand what you are agreeing to is always sensible. 

Larger Audiences and Contacts

Record labels can offer some benefits that are nearly impossible for independent artists to access. A record label will always have more resources than an artist, giving them a much greater ability to promote your music. 

On a record label, you will also benefit from the range of relationships they have with leading industry professionals and organisations. They can leverage these connections to secure bigger shows, high-profile music festival appearances, radio plays, and media appearances. These all help you to promote your music and increase your earning potential in the industry. 

Cheaper Studio Time

A great advantage of a record deal used to be that it gave you access to studio time. This used to be incredibly expensive. However, self-service music studios eliminate this concern, offering studio time that any artist can afford. 

All Nighter Studios is a great example of an affordable music studio in London. It gives you access to spaces where you can record, produce, write, or brush up on your DJ skills. Our production studios are kitted out with the latest equipment and can be hired for just £6-10 per