Do You Really Need a Record Label Today? A Beginner-Friendly Guide for Independent Artists

If you’re just starting your journey as an independent artist, you’ve probably wondered:“Do I need a label to make it?”

Short answer? No. Not anymore.

Long answer? Let’s break it down so you can make the smartest move for your career.

Why Labels Used to Matter (and Why They Don’t the Same Way Today)

Back in the day, labels controlled everything—radio, distribution, TV, marketing, music videos. If you wanted your music heard, you needed them.

But the game completely changed. Today:

• Music lives online.

• You can upload songs worldwide yourself.

• Anyone can shoot videos.

• You can build your own audience without permission.

Labels lost their monopoly. You are the gatekeeper now.

Major Labels: Why They’re Usually a Trap for New Artists

A major label will often ask for:

• 50–80% of your masters

• Full control of what, when, and how you release

• An advance (which sounds good but is basically debt)

Here’s the catch:You only earn from your small percentage after you pay back that advance… which takes forever.And you lose your freedom—no dropping songs monthly, no experimenting, no building momentum your way.

If you’re early in your career, major label deals often slow you down instead of lifting you up.

Indie Labels: Better, But Not Perfect

Indie labels usually offer single-song or project deals. They take around 50% of the masters, but in exchange you get:

• A niche platform

• Built-in fans

• Credibility

• Promotion within a community

This can be a win if the sound of your music truly fits the label and you’re okay giving up some ownership.

But be careful with changing your sound just to “fit” a label’s vibe.If fans first discover you through that label, they’ll expect that sound forever, which can make it harder to grow your own identity.

The Most Sustainable Path: True Independence

This is the slow path, but it’s the strongest one.

Staying fully independent means you:

• Keep 100% of your masters

• Keep all long-term royalties

• Control your releases

• Build a fanbase that loves you, not a label’s version of you

Does it take time? Yes.Think 3 to 5 years of consistent releases before things really start paying you back.

But if you choose the independent route and commit to releasing regularly, almost like a lifestyle, you’ll build something real, durable, and yours.

So What Should You Do as a New Artist?

Here’s the simple version:

✔ Start independent. Get your reps in. Build your sound. Build your people.

✔ Experiment with indie labels only when it feels like a true collaboration and not a compromise.

✔ Stay away from major deals until you have leverage, momentum, and the power to negotiate.

Your career is a long-term game, and independence gives you the space to grow without pressure or permission.

Final Thoughts

The music industry can feel overwhelming, but you have way more power than artists did 20 years ago. You can build your career from your bedroom. You can reach the world without waiting for someone to say yes.

Take your time. Release consistently. Stay true to your sound.

And remember: ownership matters.

Much love, keep building. ✨