What Is A&R in Music?
What is A&R (Artists and Repertoire)? The bridge between raw talent and stardom, where data-driven scouting meets creative artist development.
Read More about What Is A&R in Music?
deals
The Record Label Guide: Deals, Distribution, and Going Independent
Everything you need to know about record labels in 2026. Understand deal types, distribution agreements, contract red flags, and when it makes sense to stay independent. Includes real examples and negotiation tips.
How Does a Music Publishing Deal Work?
A complete guide to music publishing deals, royalty splits, songwriter rights, and how publishing income works for artists and creators.
How Record Label Distribution Deals Work For Artists (2026 Guide)
Record label distribution deals explained for independent artists: ownership, revenue splits, contract terms, advances, and how to negotiate better terms in 2026.
Types of Record Deals Explained for Artists in the Modern Music Industry
A clear breakdown of every type of record deal in 2026, including royalty splits, advance ranges, master ownership terms, and how to spot red flags before you sign.
The Types of Record Labels Explained (2026 Guide)
Major labels, indie labels, 360 deals, distribution-only, artist-run: a plain-English breakdown of every record label type, what each one takes from you, and how to decide which structure fits your career.
Do We Still Need Record Labels in 2026?
Independent artists now generate 43% of all recorded music revenue globally according to MIDiA Research. Major labels still control 68% of global streaming market share. Both numbers are true. The question is not whether labels are relevant but whether they are the right tool for where you are in your career.
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What Is a Co-Publishing Deal and Is It Worth It?
A co-publishing deal splits the publisher's share of your songwriting income with a music publisher in exchange for an advance, administration, and creative services. This guide explains how co-pub deals work, what you keep and what you give up, and how to decide if one is right for you.
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What Is a 360 Deal and Should You Ever Sign One?
A 360 deal gives a label a percentage of nearly every dollar you earn, not just record sales. This guide explains what 360 deals cover, why labels push for them, and how to decide whether to sign one.
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What Do Record Labels Actually Do?
What do record labels actually do? Explore how they fund production, manage master rights, and drive global promotion in today's digital era.
Related Directories
Ampsuite
Ampsuite is an all-in-one music royalty accounting, label management, and promotional system based in Coventry, UK, founded in 2011. Now part of Beatport's distribution network, Ampsuite delivers to Beatport, Bandcamp, SoundCloud, Spotify, Apple Music, TikTok, YouTube, and more. Features label group management, Content ID and music recognition, contract management, royalty accounting with auto-assigned sales and auto-emailed statements, automated website generation, and management reports. Available on a no-contract monthly plan or free as part of distribution deals. Best for labels that want integrated royalty accounting and distribution from a single dashboard.
Armada Distribution
Armada Distribution is the distribution arm of Armada Music Group, based in Amsterdam, Netherlands, founded in 2003. A leading independent distributor dedicated exclusively to dance and electronic music. Part of one of the biggest dance labels in the world. Amazon Music Preferred Provider and Spotify Preferred Provider. Focuses on maximizing global reach, fan engagement, and visibility across all platforms. Custom deals with no public pricing. Selective about clients. Not a general-purpose distributor. Best for dance and electronic music artists and labels seeking premium distribution with major-label backing.
Believe
Believe is a French music distribution company founded in 2005 by Denis Ladegaillerie, headquartered in Paris. Publicly traded on Euronext Paris. One of the world's largest music distribution companies with offices in 50+ countries and distribution to 100+ streaming platforms worldwide. Holds #1 position in Apple and Spotify Preferred Partner Program. Three divisions: Believe Label and Artist Solutions (for labels), Believe Artist Services (bespoke for top artists), and TuneCore (DIY self-service). Offers audio and video distribution, audience development, music publishing, sync licensing, financial support and royalty advances, marketing strategies, and A&R. Custom deals with no public pricing for Believe services. Not open-signup for Believe services (use TuneCore for DIY). Acquired TuneCore. Best for established labels and artists who need full-service distribution and marketing support.
