Readers Respond: Is Start a Record Label a Losing Proposition?

Responses: 2

Starting a record label - would you do it? It used to be the dream of music fans - getting to pick the bands and share your favorite music with the public. Now, however, labels are suffering, which begs the question - would anyone really decide to start a label these days? Share you thoughts about starting a record label.

Yes, start a record label!

I think anyone who wants to should start a record label. Is it a losing proposition? Well that just depends on how you look at it. If you want to put out 7" vinyl from bands no one's ever heard of, that may be a losing proposition. But if you look intelligently at your costs, it can be done. Put music out digitally costs nothing. Sending music to bloggers in zip files costs nothing. There is a redundancy in the music business - bands with a good booker and PR company don't need a label. But labels still make sense if they are providing a service that bands need - they are just not serving the same purpose labels did in the past. Making money off music is very difficult whether you're a label or an artist. Starting a record label is not a good way to acquire wealth quickly. But if you are passionate about music, starting a label has never been easier. If you're not relying on the label to pay your rent, then you can do it affordably and help out bands that you love.

—Guest Will

Musicians Only

I think the only record labels in the future will be record labels run by musicians.

—Guest Jeff