How to Start a Record Label 101 (Part 1)

These days, the barriers to entry for starting a record label are practically nothing. Many labels have been formed by someone saying “Ok, I have a record label.” Ultimately, signing up for Soundcloud and creating a Facebook page technically makes you a record label.

It’s obvious that the music industry is going through a lot of changes. Between the Internet, streaming services, and shifting consumption patterns, record labels can’t operate the way they did two decades ago. For major labels, this presents a lot of complications. For independent labels, it creates opportunities. Being small and nimble is an advantage, and we’ve seen how indie labels can implement some really unique and forward-thinking tactics to better suit the times.

However, if you really want to give yourself the best chance of success, not to mention protecting your investment, going through a proper set-up process is important. This guide will familiarize you with the major steps behind getting your label up and running.

1) Pick a Name for the Label.

The first step is, of course, pick a name for your record label. However, before deciding on a name, you can save yourself a lot of headache by making it is available. Google should be your first stop, then some additional places to check for name availability include: