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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major labels
What Is an “Industry Plant” in Music?
An industry plant is an artist presented as independent who secretly had major label backing from the start. This guide explains what the term actually means, why fans use it, who it gets applied to, and what it tells us about how the music industry actually works.
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.
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How To Get Nominated for a Grammy: The Real Process Explained
Grammy nominations are not random, not exclusive to major labels, and not about streaming numbers. This guide explains the actual submission process, eligibility rules, voting mechanics, and what independent artists can realistically do to put themselves in the running.
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Related Directories
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.
e-Muzyka
e-Muzyka is the leading music distributor on the Polish market, based in Warsaw, Poland, founded in 2005. Part of Empik Group with 20 employees. Represents 650+ Polish independent labels and works with all major labels (Universal, Sony, Warner). Distributes to Spotify, YouTube, Tidal, iTunes, TikTok, Facebook, and more. Certified YouTube partner and biggest multi-channel network in Poland with 250+ million monthly views. Offers physical distribution (CDs, DVDs, books), mobile value-added services, marketing campaigns, and Empik store promotional services. Launched emuze.me self-service platform with 85% revenue share, 50+ services, no long-term contracts, and no upfront fees. Best for Polish artists and labels, and anyone targeting the Polish market.
The Orchard
The Orchard is a full-service music distribution and label services company based in New York, founded in 1997. Acquired by Sony Music Entertainment in 2015 for $200M. Also acquired AWAL (2021, $430M), IODA, Phonofile, and BalconyTV. Employs 589 people with $400M annual revenue and offices in 47 cities across 11 countries. Holds 8.9% US market share as of 2025. Offers digital and physical sales and marketing, advertising, brand partnerships, rights management, video monetization, collaborator splits, royalty accounting, publishing administration, and neighboring rights. Not open-signup: access is through labels and partners only. No public pricing. Preferred partner status at all major DSPs. Works with Bad Bunny (Rimas), Peso Pluma (Double P Records), Fat Possum, and Mass Appeal. Part of Sony Music ecosystem alongside AWAL.
