Sun Records
The following is a list of notable independent record companies and the creatives/founders behind the labels: Sun Records (US, 1950– ); was the first label to record Elvis Presley and other big names in early rock ‘n roll.

When did the first record label start?

Record labels began emerging in the late 1800s when phonographs and phonorecords began to commercialize as technology allowed mass production. By the end of the century, three record companies had established themselves as the leaders of the industry: the Thomas A.

What was an independent record company during the 1960s?

60s Motown: When An Independent Detroit Record Label Ruled The World. Motown was founded in 1959 as Tamla Records, and it acquired the name Motown in April 1960 – the ideal time to launch a record company built on black music. In the early 60s, the music industry was rapidly expanding.

How much does it cost to start a small record label?

Starting a small scale but standard record label company that can only carry out basic recording services/studio works in the United States of America will cost about twenty thousand dollars to fifty thousand dollars ($20,000 to $50,000).

Are indie labels worth it?

While money is the top reason to sign with a major label, it definitely tops the list of negatives for indies. While some indie labels are sitting pretty financially, most small operations are just trying to stay afloat. With indie labels, you’ll usually have to remain financially invested in your own music career.

What major problems do independent recording labels face?

Indie labels often face an uphill battle trying to get their music heard, as they typically have far fewer financial resources to promote their music than the major labels do. Despite the struggle, many independents have survived and thrived for years.

How do I get a major label deal?

How Can I Get a Record Deal?

1. MAKE THE BEST ALBUM OR DEMO THAT YOU CAN. The music industry is more competitive than ever, which means you can’t just deliver a “good” song or a “presentable” demo.
2. BUILD A FAN BASE AND BUILD MOMENTUM.
3. CONSIDER A PUBLISHING DEAL FIRST.
4. MAKE TONS OF CONNECTIONS.

How do independent labels make money?

Record labels make money when their music is purchased or licensed for use. When an artist gets signed to a label they get money, called an ‘advance,’ to make a record.

How do I get signed to a label?

Good luck!

1. Write a Great Bio. First things first: make sure your brand is properly and professionally represented online.
2. Prepare Your Tunes. Remember about producing and delivering good quality.
3. Do Your Research. Do Your Research.
4. Be Relevant.
5. Think Like a Label.
6. Send it Out!
7. Submit a Demo to Blue Label Records.

What is the difference between a major label and an indie label?

While major labels are global and operate their own publishing and distribution companies, indie labels work with other smaller companies, either in long-term partnerships or in smaller contractual relationships for their distribution and publishing needs.

Is it better to be independent or signed?

Artists who want to retain the master rights, keep 100% of the profits, have complete creative control, and are music business savvy may consider going independent. Artists who want more freedom to work on music, don’t mind fewer profits, and want more exposure may consider signing with a record label.

Should I sign with a small record label?

Again, you should only consider signing with a label if there’s something they can do for you that can’t already do yourself. This means that in return for help releasing and promoting your music, most any label you work with is going to expect a lot from you in terms of money, exclusive rights to your music and so on.

How much do independent record labels pay?

Independent Record Label Salary

The record label business is a large industry and there is room to promote and distribute music everywhere. The average startup cost of a record label is between $200 – $50,000.

How do I start a label and sign myself?

Checklist for How to Start your Record Label

1. Create a Record Label Business Plan.
2. Choose Your Record Label’s Business Structure.
3. Determine Your Business Costs.
4. Create a Unique Name for Your Record Label.
5. Register Your Business and Open Financial Accounts.
6. Purchase Equipment for Your Record Label.
7. Market Your Record Label.

When did independent record labels start to form?

The late 1970s had seen the establishment of independent distribution companies such as Pinnacle and Spartan, providing independent labels an effective means of distribution without involving the major labels.

How much does it cost to start a record label?

Startup costs for record labels vary widely. A musician with access to home recording equipment can start their own label out of a spare room for about $1,000. A larger label representing multiple artists and being staffed by multiple employees can cost closer to $50,000 or $100,000 to start.

Why is it good to start your own record label?

You can start a record label even if you aren’t an artist yourself, helping to support and guide other artists in their careers. If you are a performing artist, then starting a record label could help you to reach new audiences and take control of your music. In time, you could expand that label to sign on other artists, too.

Who are the major record labels in the UK?

There are only 3 major record labels in the UK and they are Sony, Universal, and Warner Music. These major labels are so big that they have their own in-house distribution, press, promotion, and generally huge budgets for artists. Everyone else is considered to be an independent record label.