Don't tell me you never thought about owning your own Indie record label company. I guess the real question is, what has been stopping you? Unfortunately, I know too well the answer to this question. You are stopping you from breaking into one of the most lucrative, record labeling industries...the Indie.
There are many reasons why people tell themselves why they can't have their own Indie record label company. However, I'm going to tell you why you can and more importantly, why it is imperative that you start right now. There are many benefits to owning your own record label company. I'm going to help convince you why you CAN start your own Indie record company. In the following paragraphs, I'm going to squash your lame excuses for not starting your own Indie record company, and by the end of the article I'll have you off the couch in no time.
The main excuse that I hear as to why someone will not start his or her own Indie record label company is due to the lack of the almighty dollar. Maybe you don't have a lot of George Washington's lying around, but chances are you probably know someone who does. If you are serious about your music, then create a proposal, short, sweet and to the point to present to your family, friends, etc... Wait, before you talk to them make sure that you have done your research on how much things will cost. Look in your local billboard magazine's classified section for a good idea about costs for various services. Once you know the basis for your budget, you will then be ready to speak intelligently to your future financial backers.
Explain to your investors first and foremost how music is your life, your passion. Then spell out in your proposal what monies you need in order for your Indie record Label Company to become a success. Give them a detailed description of the money needed for production costs, musicians, recording costs, advertising and distribution costs. The more you know about the future costs the more secure your investors will feel about investing in your new venture and the quicker you'll be of to start a record label.
Another reason that I hear as to why people don't start their own Indie record label is because they do not have enough material. If you have a single - 7", cassette, or 12" you then have enough material. There are companies that still even work with vinyl. Such as, Disc Makers, Europadisk,Ltd. and Rainbo. Their prices are reasonable. The next excuse I usually hear is that one does not have a steady gig. Well, good news. You do not need a steady gig in order to promote your product. As long as you have a professional looking recording, that is the only steady gig you need.
Others tell me that they can't start their own label because they do not have a distributor. Well, unless you have signed with a major label, you can use other methods to distribute your recordings. Most independent music stores are willing to take music on consignment. You can also contact several online catalog distribution organizations. There usually is a nominal fee, however, artists who distribute through this medium have an opportunity to become acquainted with the distribution side of the business. You can also try to get your music distributed through other independent labels.
Speaking of building new acquaintances; it is important to send someone out to promote your label at various clubs. This brings me to another topic as to why people believe they cannot start their own record label...they do not have a manager. Well, finding a manager is easier than you thought. First, put up some ads at local colleges. You will find that there are a lot of students willing to try their hand in the music business. Once you decide to hire a manager, make sure it is someone you can trust. Then make a contract with that person for either a flat fee or for a percentage of the business. If you can it is always a good idea to have a lawyer draw up a contract for you.
One of the more popular excuses that I hear all the time as to why one cannot start a record label is because he/she does not have any equipment. Folks, home recording is becoming more and more popular. If you can't afford to buy the latest equipment, then try to get spec time at a studio. Too can make arrangements to record during off hours.
Finally, I have heard people say that they do not understand all that copyright, licensing stuff and therefore they couldn't start their own company. Well, it is not as confusing as you may think. It only costs $20 to have your music copyrighted. Contact the U.S.Copyright office. In order to be licensed then you need to negotiate with ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC; otherwise you will have to negotiate with each and every radio station that plays your music.
I hope I have helped show you that as an artist, you can and should start your own record label company, rather than sign with a major label. Remember YOU control your own destiny. Good luck and happy listening!
Copyright: Copyright © 2006-2008 Ty Cohen
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