Independent record label

An independent record label is a record label operating without the funding of one of the major record labels. The boundaries between major and independent labels are quite blurred in practice. Some independent record labels, in particular those with successful performing artists, receive funding from major labels, and many independent labels often rely to some extent on international licensing deals, distribution agreements, and other arrangements with major record labels. Major labels may also wholly acquire independent labels.

Related Topics:
Record label - Major record labels - Artists

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Independent labels have been in existence for almost as long as there has been a market for recorded music. Even as the music industry has become more centralised, independent labels have continued to be a significant, if small, part of the overall market. In a number of cases, independent labels have assembled rosters of recording artists that rival those of the majors. The 1960s and 1980s are regarded as having been particularly fruitful periods for independent labels.

Related Topics:
1960s - 1980s

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In the UK, all of the independent record labels are jointly represented by Association of Independent Music.

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