They own the rights to publish your music and negotiate music licensing deals to grant permission to film and television studios to feature your songs. Film & Television: When a film or television studio wants to use your music in their production, the record label negotiates a license fee. Live Performances: Similar to syncing for TV and film, public performance licenses are needed for live events or streaming. Digital and Physical Sales: Record labels negotiate revenue sharing agreements with streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Pandora, as well as physical retailers such as Amazon or Walmart. Publishing: Publishing rights cover mechanical royalties (paid out whenever your song gets reproduced) and performance royalties (paid out every time your song is played on the radio or performed live).
Marketing and Promotion:
A critical role of record labels is creating awareness and excitement around your music. Press: Pitching media outlets to cover you, getting reviews of your music, and issuing press releases. Marketing Campaigns: Developing and implementing strategic campaigns aimed at reaching target audiences. Social Media: Managing and updating artist social media accounts to maintain engagement. Tours and Live Events: Booking tours, setting up showcases, and managing logistics.
Artist Development
Record labels invest their expertise and resources in your creative growth. Production Support: Providing access to top producers, engineers, and studios for recording and mixing your music. Creative Input: Offering guidance on song selection, arrangement, and sound. Musical Education: Helping artists improve their skills through vocal coaching, instrument lessons, and performance tips.
Distribution and Sales
Getting your music into the hands and ears of fans is another core function. Digital: Distributing music to streaming platforms and online stores. Physical: Producing physical formats like CDs and vinyl and distributing them to retail stores. Merchandise: Creating and selling band-branded merchandise.