The music industry is constantly evolving and with the time passing, new trends and music genres and sub-genres are emerging. The traditional pattern of singing a record label to make a music released is still there but the modern time and technology also provide ample room for indie artists to grow. Indie artists stand for independent music artists who are making music of their own without taking any help from the record labels.
The rise of online streaming platforms, digital music distribution, DSPs, social media, online marketing, and technological advancement are the main driving factors for the growth of independent music. These elements not only helped the independent artists grow but also created a music scene that influenced others. When it comes to becoming a professional music artist, you have two options namely singing for a record label or establishing yourself as an independent artist.
If you want a celebrity example, Chance the Rapper is a fine example of an indie artist who embarked on the journey pretty early. He dropped a mixtape named ‘Coloring Book’ which was released back in 2016 it was dropped without the help of any record label. The music project turned out to be very successful and helped him gain three Grammy Awards. He received one of the awards for Best Rap Album. This streaming-only album also made its place to no.8 on Billboard Hot 200.
Now, the biggest question is whether you should look for a record label to sign with or embark on a journey of creating music all by yourself. Both of the ways have their own sets of pros and cons and taking a better look at them can help in better decision-making. Let’s find both sides of the coin.
Career as an Independent Music Artist
PROs
• Complete Creative Control
Independent music artists have complete creative control over their music and no one can question them about the direction or composition of music. They can have complete control of distribution, artwork, and marketing which allows them to make free decisions without following any orders or pleasing the commercial standards. It helps artists to proceed forward with their unique creative vision which is ideal for artists who cannot be labeled under a name.
• Keep All the Profits
Independent music artists get to keep 100% of profits earned from music as there are no record labels to take the bigger chunk. Starting from streaming royalties to merchandise and licensing deals, artists get to secure a huge amount of revenue which they deserve. It is one of the sole reasons why Taylor Swift started re-releasing her own albums again with her own version and profits as well.
• 100% Ownership of Music
Independent artists can embrace their music rights as they have complete ownership over the creation. They have the freedom to negotiate music licensing and publishing deals without worrying about breaking a deal that has been already signed with a record label. With the ownership, music artists are no longer required to hire expensive lawyers for their music rights.
• Music Services for Indie Artists
With the rise of music promotion services in this digital era, there are many online agencies that offer services for independent artists. You can easily find a handful of affordable services with a simple search on Google. Therefore, you can always find professional help if required.
Also Read: A Thorough Guide on How to Submit Music to a Record Label?
Cons
• Lack of Resources and Budget
The process of creating and releasing a brand new track is quite intriguing and there are a lot of stages such as mastering, distribution, marketing, as well as merchandise and touring. These activities need a lot of financial aid and an independent artist might not be able to handle it while a record label can do it with ease.
• Limited Business Experiences
Becoming a professional music artist is not just about making music but it also requires having an intelligent business mind that can navigate through the complex business landscape of the music industry. It is more helpful when a record label helps to deal with the formal stuff while you can focus on your musical craft. You need professionals to get through a complex world.
• Limited Network
Networking is one of the top needs of emerging music artists who are trying to make their way through the music industry. However indie artists usually have limited network and access to the music industry since they are not working under any major record label. The labels on the other hand can help to improve your fanbase with a humongous network which is their prime asset.
• Limited Time
The route of success for an independent artist comes with more struggles and it takes a fair share of time to reach there. This full-time job of taking care of everything alone can also make your creative process lengthy and offer you less time to spend in the studio.
Music Career with a Record Label
PROs
• High Octane Resources and Budget
The record labels that are major and established are more likely to have ample resources and budgets to support the growth of your music career. They can take care of each aspect starting from mastering, distribution, marketing, artwork creation, merchandise, touring, and creation of music videos, as well as other expenses; and everything under a common shade of expertise.
• Exquisite Network and Connection
The existing network of a record label is already powerful enough to create more prolific opportunities for you. The record label can help to reach a larger audience base since it already has a huge number of fans. The network is also helpful for your event needs as connecting with booking agents, music venues, and industry professionals.
• Influence and Reputation
The major record labels have a huge influence over the music industry and also over music lovers. Their reputation and professionalism ensure secure licensing and publishing deals with no room for scamming or fraud. The labels thrive to work with the music artists and in exchange, they offer a handful of benefits as well.
• Implementation of Marketing Strategy
Not every artist makes the same kinds of music and the same promotional strategy might not work for everyone. The record labels are well versed in the field and they can help to implement dynamic marketing strategies which would be perfect for your growth as an artist. They utilize the techniques of content marketing, social media marketing, and many others.
Cons
• Very Limited Creative Control
Singing under a record label means they will have complete creative control over your music and it can greatly reduce your room for creativity. The label can make decisions without your approval and you will have to follow them since you signed an official deal. Not just music but they also have complete control over marketing, artwork, promotion, and more.
• Small Portion of Profit
Record labels take a huge percentage of the profit which is perhaps valid since they care about every financial expense. However, it leaves very little for the artist who is the creator of the song. They can also charge based on the royalty you receive with each stream. It might feel a little unfair as artists get a very small portion.
• Copyright Ownership is Transferred
When an artist signs a deal, the record label owns the master right for each song. They can make deals with your music without requiring your consent or approval. With ownership, they can also secure the profits gained from the deals.
• Bad Contracts
While a lot of record labels offer artist-friendly contacts, many of them can try to exploit the artist by offering them the lowest percentage and they gain a big portion of the revenue generated by the music creation. It is hard to understand the legal complexities of an artist.
Concluding Thoughts
After a comparative analysis of both sides, it is safe to say that artists can find benefits in both cases and there are disadvantages too. Those who are looking forward to keeping their 100% ownership and profits of music should become an indie artist and gradually rise to success. And artists who are looking forward to focusing on their passion and making more music in less time should sign a record deal. Ask a professional music artist for more guidance.
