RECORD LABEL

What is a record label?

A record label is a music industry that provides money the artist or the band to make music.

What does a record label do?

•  They produce, manufacture and distribute records for the artist
• They sign artists
• They manage bands and artists
• They scout talent and develop new artists
• They market and promote music video
• Copyright protection

Two types of record label

Major

The big 3 record labels are;

• Sony BMG
• Universal Music Group
• Warner Music Group

Can at anyone time represent 75%of the music sold within a year.

Minor/Independent

A smaller record label that operates without the funding of the big four. Many artists begin their career with minor labels. Generally allows more artistic freedom and control.

Universal takeover

In September of 2012 Universal took over EMI and its subsidiaries. this included them taking over the contract of Bastille.

The album 4th single "Pompeii" gained the band 2nd place on the singles chart.

So what is the difference between the Major/Minor? Research one of the following to trace their record label history compared to their success.

Bon Iver

Arctic Monkeys

Ryan Adams

The White Stripes

Arcade Fire

Kings of Leon

A brief history of the artist

Details about the record label they have been on. Why do you think they were signed to this/these labels?

Details about how the band have been marketed over the course of their career. E.g. Did their image/representation change over the course of their career? Why do you think this is?