Most music deals are negotiable, but many artists sign the first offer without pushing back. This guide explains how to approach negotiations for record deals, publishing agreements, sync licenses, and performance contracts with confidence.
An artist development deal offers resources and support to help you grow before a full record deal is on the table. This guide explains how development deals work, what they typically cost you, and whether signing one is the right move.
Master recording ownership determines who controls your music, who earns from it, and who has the right to license it. This guide explains what masters are, when you own them and when you do not, and how to structure your releases to retain ownership.
A music advance is not a loan, but it is not free money either. This guide explains how advances work, what recoupment means, the difference between label and publishing advances, and how to think about whether an advance makes sense for your career.
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.
Record label distribution deals explained for independent artists: ownership, revenue splits, contract terms, advances, and how to negotiate better terms in 2026.
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.
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 Japan Record Awards are the longest-running and most prestigious music awards in Japan, presented annually by the Japan Composer's Association since 1959, combining jury evaluation with commercial performance data to recognize excellence in Japanese recorded music.
Record Union is a Sweden-based digital music distributor founded in 2008 in Stockholm. Per-release subscription model starting at $14/year for a single (Top Dog, 5 platforms) or $19/year (World Domination, 150+ platforms). 100% royalty retention with 0% commission. 14-day standard delivery, 5 days with Rapid Delivery add-on. Spotify Platinum Partner. YouTube Content ID available as add-on. No publishing admin or sync licensing. Releases removed if subscription lapses. AI music policy not publicly stated. 4.7/5 Trustpilot rating from 1,270 reviews. 53 employees, $3.6M annual revenue.
Platoon is a boutique artist services and distribution company based in London, UK, founded in 2016 by Denzyl Feigelson and Saul Klein. Acquired by Apple in 2018. Invitation-only and highly selective. Offers the Platoon for Artists app for content, streams, and revenue management. Platoon Songs division pays writers for sessions, shares master royalties, and offers 6-month song reservation with first look at publishing rights. Track record of developing stars including Billie Eilish and Jorja Smith. Part of the Apple ecosystem. No public pricing. Custom deals. Focus on artist development from the emerging stage. Best for promising emerging artists seeking curated, high-touch artist development.
