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.
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indie labels
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.
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.
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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.
Record Label Business
What Software Do Independent Labels Use for Royalties?
If you are running label royalties in a spreadsheet and have more than 10 artists, you are one formula error away from a dispute. Here is every major royalty software option for indie labels in 2026, and how to choose the right one.
Distribution
TuneCore Alternatives: Top Music Distributors for Indie Artists
The best TuneCore alternatives for independent artists in 2026. Real pricing, royalty splits, payout speeds, and honest pros and cons for DistroKid, CD Baby, AWAL, UnitedMasters, and more.
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iGroove
iGroove is a Swiss music distributor based in Pfaeffikon, Switzerland, founded in 2012. Serves 1000+ labels and artists with a pay-per-release model: singles CHF 25/EUR 19/USD 20, EPs CHF 35/EUR 29/USD 30, albums CHF 55/EUR 49/USD 50, plus 8% commission. No recurring costs or yearly fees. Releases stay online permanently. Offers worldwide distribution, personalized support, monthly payouts, playlist pitching, and a Label OS with AI-driven royalty accounting and contract automation. Self-funded and profitable with no external venture capital. Application process required. Best for indie labels and artists in the DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland).
Kontor New Media
Kontor New Media is a German digital and physical music distributor founded in 2003 with over 20 years of experience. Uses a percentage distribution fee model with no upfront costs and no takedown fees. Distributes to 300+ DSPs worldwide. Offers digital and physical distribution from a single source, including manufacturing of sound carriers in cooperation with Edel and Optimal. Provides genre-specialized label and product management, personal support, tailor-made release strategies, YouTube Content ID, neighboring rights accounting, and social media promotion. Works with all genres including dance, electronic, pop, indie, rock, metal, schlager, hip hop, jazz, classical, and children's music. Best for labels and artists seeking a full-service European distributor with physical and digital capabilities.
Coachella
The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival is a two-weekend music festival held annually in April at the Empire Polo Field in Indio, California, featuring headliners across pop, hip-hop, indie, and electronic music. The 2026 edition ran April 10-12 and 17-19, headlined by Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Bieber, and Karol G.
