Record Labels

In the music industry, record labels are the companies that deal with the artist’s profile. They are vital to manage the production, manufacture and distribution of the products produced by the artist. Not only that, record labels scout out new upcoming artists and develop their sound. Also they maintain a contract between artists and their managers. Record labels also enforce copyright to protect their artist’s songs.

There are two types of record labels; major and independent. Currently the big 4 at the moment are: Sony Music Entertainment, EMI Group, Warner Music Group and Universal Music Group. These big four dominate approximately 70% of the world's music industry. Any music produced by the big four is generally classed as a major record label. Unlike the big 4, the independent record companies are small local companies such as 2flystudio.  ‘Arctic Monkeys’ originally produced their first B-sides in this local studio  and are now releasing their 4th album in June 2011 with one of the big 4 -EMI.