How Much Does it Cost to Start a Record Label?

10/08/24 • 18 min

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In this episode, we tackle the big question every aspiring indie label owner has asked: "How much does it cost to start a record label?"

Presented by Smart Noise - http://geni.us/smartnoise

Forget the sky-high figures you might find online – we're breaking it down in a realistic, no-nonsense way for one-person operations, DIY labels, and anyone looking to start small. From branding and legal costs to subscriptions and vinyl pressing, we’ll walk you through a practical budget of around $2,650, with tips on how to scale from there.

Whether you're reissuing your own music, releasing a friend's band, or dreaming of creating a community-driven label, this episode gives you a clear path forward. Plus, we share how you can save money without cutting corners – and what you shouldn't skimp on. Listen in and get ready to launch your label the right way!

Grab a budget template here: http://otherrecordlabels.com/budget

In this episode, we tackle the big question every aspiring indie label owner has asked: "How much does it cost to start a record label?"

Presented by Smart Noise - http://geni.us/smartnoise

Grab a budget template here: http://otherrecordlabels.com/budget

Previous Episode

Do Music Videos Matter? - (Industry Insiders with Eric Weiner)

This week, it's an INDUSTRY INSIDERS episode! I sit down with Eric Weiner of The Wild Honey Pie, a company renowned for creating video content and music videos for indie artists and labels. Together, we dive into the evolving landscape of music videos in the indie music scene in 2024.

Presented by SMART NOISE - http://smart-noise.com

We explore the apparent contradiction of music videos losing relevance in an era where video content dominates platforms like YouTube, while music videos seem to have become the "unwanted stepchild" of the video content family. Eric shares his thoughts on why streaming giants like Spotify and Apple haven't pushed music videos as aggressively as they've embraced video content for podcasts.

We also address the practical side of video creation, including the high costs and challenges indie labels face in producing them. Eric shares insights into how some genres—like alternative rock and punk—thrive visually, while others may struggle to translate their sound into a visual medium.

Check out The Wild Honey Pie: http://thewildhoneypie.com

Next Episode

Root Rot Records Interview

In this episode, I sit down with Zena, founder of Root Rot Records, an independent label championing community and creativity.

Presented by Smart Noise - http://geni.us/smartnoise

Zena shares their experience navigating vinyl production and how tapes have been a unique and growing part of their label’s offerings. We also dive into the clever marketing tactics like the “try before you buy” QR code stickers on their tapes.

We explore the meaning behind the name Root Rot Records and discuss how the label’s mission is more than just about releasing music—it’s about creating a home for marginalized communities. Zena talks about how fostering compassion, community, and inclusivity is at the heart of the label's ethos.

Rootrotrecords.bandcamp.com