Last month I discussed two distinctly different types of physical music distribution – “traditional” and “one-stop.” This month I will delve a little deeper into some of the various deals potentially offered by traditional distributors. While it remains true that opportunity has never been greater for the average indie musician or label, a traditional distribution deal is still very hard to come by. A general rule of thumb indicates that an artist or label typically surrenders control and profitability in direct proportion to the amount of outside investment agreed upon and/or required to record, market and promote an album. For the purpose of this segment on distribution, the terms “distributor” and “record label” are often used interchangeably.
In a “packaging and distribution deal” (sometimes referred to as a “P&D deal”), the artist or label maintains more control over a project since the distributor is only fronting the costs for manufacturing. Due to the limited exposure, the distributor allows more freedom to the artist/label since the risk for marketing and promoting the album is assumed by the artist or label.
Under a “profit-sharing” model, more of the burden is assumed by the distributor. The artist or label will typically enter the agreement with a finished project in-hand and maintain ownership of the master recording. The distributor agrees to invest in the marketing and promotion of the project and profits are then shared between distributor and artist/label.
In a “license deal,” the artist or label licenses the rights to exploit the content to a distributor or label while retaining ownership of the master recording and songwriting revenues. Once the license term concludes, the rights then revert to the artist or label. This model can be very advantageous if the artist/label is able to properly market and promote the title independently.
The next model is what most people would be familiar with when discussing a “major label deal.” In this model, the label/distributor funds virtually every aspect of the recording and marketing process and, as such, inherits a great deal of influence over each and every aspect of the recording and marketing processes. One of the hot-button issues for many past, present and future recording artists operating under this model is the ownership of the publishing rights and copyright of the master recording. Most deals under this model require that the artist or label surrender ownership of the master recording and, often, the publishing rights as well. If and when this occurs the distributor will maintain ownership indefinitely for all aspects of the master recording.
One of the newest models in vogue is the “360 deal.” Under this model, the artist is basically “branded” by a team consisting of artist management, producers, promoters and a marketing team. The team assumes “ownership” of the brand and work together to create success on behalf of the artist. At this level, virtually any and all merchandise branded with the artist’s name or likeness becomes a profit center for the label. This model involves the most financial investment by the label/distributor and, proportionately, the least amount of creative control for the artist.
Next month I will discuss self-distribution and the truly independent artist.
Copyright 2011 - David C. Coleman
Minneapolis-based Fades Away have emerged with their own savory brand of highly energetic, intense Christian rock. Their latest album, Perceptions, shows tremendous growth in both the musicianship of the individual members and their collective ability to craft melodically radical nuggets of assailing ear candy. Produced by Noah Henson, lead guitarist and main songwriter for the seminal Christian rock band Pillar, this album is solid from start to finish.
The album cover art and song “Perceptions” illustrate the concept that Christians open the door to darkness and become like Pharisees when they piously represent themselves as “better than” others. The ominous figure in the cover photo grasps his bible as he dwells in self-righteous condemnation of others. “Right Now (We’ll Stand) is a story of perseverance and victory over fear, and “Choir of Failure” addresses the issues of temptation, grace and forgiveness. Insightful and illustrative lyrics take the listener on an odyssey of epic proportions.
An intense tour schedule keeps them on the road full-time, and opening for wildly successful bands like Thousand Foot Kruth, Project 86, Fireflight and others has afforded them the opportunity to play in front of massive crowds as they continue to develop an increasingly large and highly-dedicated fan base. The members of Fades Away have found that the ability to share life experiences and beliefs through the music provides the connection and approachability the fans have come to know and love.
7vnseal, formerly know as 80proof The Illa Instinct, has worked in the past with Beretta 9, Dom Pachino and Shyheim The Manchild.
Visit his ReverbNation page to get these limited downloads today.
The 3-track E.P., 7th Brigade, will be available on iTunes, Amazon and other major digital retail sites on December 6, 2011.
After traveling to countries like the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, the United Kingdom, Ireland, South Korea and France, S.O.C.O.M. is back in the U.S. and set to release the highly-anticipated album “Infinite Glory.”
The message is clear: “Are You Ready” to stand against the onslaught of chaotic messages being presented through mainstream entertainment? Are you ready to help save a dying world and generation caught up in today’s media hype, lies and bondage? Infinte Glory, quite possibly S.O.C.O.M.’s best album to date, contains the single “I Want More” featuring Dove & Stellar Award Nominee Canton Jones, a song which challenges listeners to seek God in every aspect of their lives. The dance-infused “Get Low” (featuring C-Micah) is certain to become a staple in rotation for DJ’s across the globe. CCM artist Kathleen Carnali infuses a contemporary hip-hop feel into the song “Amazin” which drives home the point that, no matter what situation we find ourselves in, God is still amazing in all that he has provided for us. T-Haddy, Ric Flo and Saylah Flowz let us know that we “Can’t Lose” in a song by the same name which could easily become a #1 Billboard hit. Mic-O and S.O.C.O.M. team up on “I Just Wanna Praise You,” yet another radio-friendly song. The album also features Universal Music Group Recording Artist Mr. Del, M.O.G. Showtime, Lil Prophet, JT Logan, M’Renee and many more.
Check out S.O.C.O.M.'s previous work as well:
