How to Start a Record Lable - Indie Label Contracts - Framework and Artist Deals

Once you know the music you want to release, you will need to set up a deal with the artists. One of the best thing about indie labels is that you can essentially have any kind of deal you want. In fact, it makes life a lot easier when you create a deal that works for you and the artist on a case by case basis. Having said that, it is a good idea to know your limitations and to have some basic principles in mind. Here are some things you'll need to think about:

  • Do you want musicians to deliver a master, or will you go in on recording costs?
  • Will you be paying advances, and if so, how much? (If you have a very small budget, your best bet is to try and convince your potential signings to keep any advance small so there is money left to promote their release.)
  • How will any earnings from releases be divided up? Will your artists get a percentage, or will you split things 50/50? Will the label recoup manufacturing costs and promotional costs before paying?
  • Will the artists get to approve promotional expenditures over a certain amount? If so, how much?
  • How many promos/free copies will the artist get? Over that limit, how much will they pay for additional copies?
  • What is the length of the deal?
  • Is the deal for just one album or several?
  • Will the musicians be entitled to audit your books? How often, and what kind of notice do they need to give?

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