All you need to know about a music record label –
Olajengbesi OS
Music is a universal language that brings people together, and for many musicians, the dream is to share their art with the world. However, creating great music is only one part of the equation. To achieve success in the music industry, artists need the support of a record label.
Music record labels are companies that produce, distribute, and promote music. They work with recording artists to create and release albums, singles, and other forms of music.
Record labels typically sign artists to contracts that outline the terms of their working relationship. These contracts often include agreements on how much the artist will be paid for their work, how long the contract will last, and how many albums or singles the artist will release during that time.
Once an artist has signed with a label, the label will typically provide them with resources to create and produce their music. This can include access to recording studios, producers, and other professionals who can help the artist create the best possible product.
Once the music is recorded and produced, the label will then distribute it to various outlets, such as streaming services, radio stations, and record stores. They will also promote the music through various channels, such as social media, advertising, and live performances.
In exchange for these services, the label takes a percentage of the revenue generated by the artist’s music. This can include revenue from sales, streaming, and other sources.
Overall, music record labels play an important role in the music industry by providing resources and support to artists and by helping to promote and distribute their music to a wider audience.
Running a record label can be demanding, but in the long song, it can be worth every done spent, especially when the artiste signed to the label works hits big
. Here are some of the key reasons why a record label is important for musicians:
1. Access to resources: Record labels have the resources to help artists create high-quality music and promote it to a wider audience. They can provide access to recording studios, producers, engineers, and other professionals who can help artists create their best work. They also have the financial resources to fund music videos, tours, and other promotional activities that can help artists build their fan base.
2. Industry expertise: Record labels have years of experience in the music industry and can provide valuable guidance to artists. They can help artists navigate the complex world of music publishing, licensing, and copyright law. They can also help artists make important business decisions, such as negotiating record deals and licensing agreements.
3. Marketing and promotion: Record labels have the expertise and resources to help artists market and promote their music. They can create marketing campaigns that target specific audiences and help artists build their fan base. Record labels also have connections with radio stations, music blogs, and other media outlets that can help artists get exposure for their music.
4. Distribution: Record labels have the infrastructure to distribute music to a wide range of platforms, including streaming services, radio stations, and physical retailers. They can help artists get their music in front of audiences around the world.
5. Financial support: Record labels can provide financial support to artists, including advances on royalties and funding for tours and other promotional activities. This can be especially important for artists who are just starting out and don’t have the financial resources to support their music careers.
But we must give credit to some major label that has done extensively well in running music label and bringing artist management into the spotlight, and enabling an environment for artists to get recognized, sponsored, and all the helps needed to get their music out and in turn, make a name and to live for themselves this being dominated around the hip-hop, rap, afrobeat, and other contemporary genres of music in Nigeria
Presently the top record labels in Nigeria include
EmPawa Music: is an African talent incubation enterprise known for nurturing and supporting up-and-coming artists. It offers mentorship to 100 African artists yearly. It was founded by *Mr. Eazi* and has produced great Artists like Mr. Eazi, Joeboy, J.Derobie, Camidoh, Majeed, Fave, Minz, NSG, Majorleaguedjz, etc…
STARBOY RECORD: Established in 2013 by singer Wizkid after parting from Empire Mates Entertainment, wizkid started this record label in his parlor with two producers Maleek Berry and Legendary Beats. This label has produced Artists like Wizkid, LAX, Mr. Eazi, Ceeza, R2Bees, Efya, Terri, etc…
YBNL: “Yahoo Boy No Laptop,” popularly known as YBNL, is an independent record label that was founded by Olamide in 2012. Recently this label signed a promotional deal with the American music promotion company “EMPIRE,” making it Global. This label has been very successful; it has produced great artists like Olamide, Lil Kesh, Adekunle Gold, Lyta, Viktoh, Chinko, Picazo, Senth, Fireboy, Asake, etc.
DMW: is a Nigerian record label owned by ”Davido” This label was founded in 2016 and has been relevant for several years; this label has produced the best of Artists. Around 2017/2018, this record label was the top label in Africa with great Artists like Davido, Mayorkun, Peruzzi, Dremo, B red, Yonda, Ichaba, etc.
Jonzing World: is a Nigerian record label and management company that was founded by recording artist D’Prince on 22 March 2019; this label is also affiliated with Mavin as their top distributor worldwide. With the introduction of Music stores, this label rose to the top because of the Quality of Artists like D’prince, Rema & Ruger.
Mavin Records: Nigerian music corporation record label founded by record producer and recording artist Don Jazzy on 8 May 2012. The label inception came to fruition following the closure of Mo’ Hits Records, owned by Don Jazzy & D’banj. Over the years, this label has been the most successful record label out of Africa, producing numerous superstars like Tiwa Savage, Wandecoal, Reekado Banks, D’prince, Dr. Sid, Dija, Johnny Drill, Ladipoe, Iyanya Korede Bello, Crayon, Boyspyce, Ayra Starr, Rema, etc.…
In conclusion, a record label is an essential partner for any musician looking to achieve success in the music industry. Record labels provide access to resources, industry expertise, marketing and promotion, distribution, and financial support that can help artists build their careers and share their music with the world
