Signing with a record label can be a defining moment in your career, but it's not a one-size-fits-all decision. For some artists, staying independent for a while is best, while others find that a contract aligns perfectly with their goals. The choice ultimately comes down to what works best for you in your unique journey.

If traditional labels aren't for you, explore alternative paths like partnerships, distribution deals, or staying independent with strategic collaborations. But if you decide signing a record deal is the right move for your career, here are some things to remember and help make the most of the opportunity.

Choose Wisely

Clarify what you hope to gain by signing with a label, like financial, marketing or network support. This will help you understand and prioritize your goals.

What’s most important to you? Creative control, revenue split, or long-term career development? Look beyond the contract and assess the label’s commitment to marketing, promotion, and distribution. Labels offer different benefits, so do your research.

Explore labels that align with your music style and career aspirations. Investigate their roster, reputation, and how they support their artists.

Understand what the label offers and how it aligns with your goals. Don’t settle until you find a label that fits your genre and shares the vision for your music.

Pitch It

Once you find a label (or some) aligned with your career goals, prepare your pitch. At this point, you know why you want to sign with them, so you need to show why they should sign with you.

Make sure your demo or recorded material is polished and professional. Also create a compelling press kit and use social media to build a strong online presence showcasing your success and potential.

Use the press kit to demonstrate your existing fan base, streaming numbers, and any accolades that show your market presence. When you’re ready to present your pitch to recording companies, reach out via phone or email to set a meeting.

Get Legal Counsel

Let’s say you’ve pitched your brand to at least one record label so far, and they’ve come back with an offer. Before you sign or shake hands to any agreement, seek legal advice. Even if you feel things are promising, you should have a music attorney review any contract before signing.

Lawyers can help you demystify legal jargon and negotiate terms that protect your interests. Pay attention to contract terms related to advances, royalties, rights, and obligations. Understand the duration of the contract and any exit clauses.

Negotiate and Observe

Once you’ve sought legal counsel and settled on your initial contract negotiations, if any, don’t be shy. Be clear with the record label about what’s important to you—royalties, music rights, creative control, contract duration. Understanding the financial aspects, like advances and royalties, is crucial. Ensure you know how and when you’ll be paid.

Negotiation is a key phase in the process of signing a record deal. It’s when artists can rightfully make contract alterations in their best interest, so handle this phase with care. Seek legal advice before negotiating or signing anything. Just as important, watch how the record label receives your negotiations. This will show you whether you really want to work with them.

Start Building

At this point in the process, you’ve basically got the pen in your hand and the contract in front of you. You’ve made your case for any negotiations and believe they are well-received. You are ready to say “yes” to this record label. Once you sign the contract, you must build an effective relationship with the company.

Develop a positive working relationship with the label’s team. Clear and open communication is key to a successful partnership. Work with the label to align your vision with their strategies and resources.

Regardless of the label you sign with (if you decide to do so), keep yourself informed about industry trends and changes. Knowledge will empower you to make informed decisions and adapt to the evolving music landscape.

Signing with a label can offer big benefits and open new doors, but it’s crucial to ensure the partnership aligns with your artistic and career goals. Start by navigating the process effectively and making informed decisions.