It is the dream of upcoming artistes to rise to become musical superstars. That is what makes them upcoming, in other words future stars. For most, part of the dream involves getting a record deal. It is widely believed that record deals can change the fortune artistes. There are evidences to this lore on both the local and international scene. J.Cole signing to Roc Nation, Drake signing to Young Money, Wizkid signing to Empire Mates Entertainment (EME) and whether we agree or argue, the Chocolate City deal gave Brymo the stage upon which he shone.

Although it is true that good record deals are the springboard of career success, a bad one puts an unsuspecting artiste in a mouse in the trap situation. It would most likely drain the artiste of gains. Record deals work in fact like a vehicle that drives one to an intended destination. A bad vehicle almost always breaks down on the way. For artistes, this is when there is a mess. A mess that usually leads to blame game; claims of career stagnation and extortion by the artiste or claims of unprofitability by the record label.

In most cases of unprofitability of the artiste, it rarely causes a media fracas, as it usually ends with a mutual termination of contract or refusal of the record label to offer a contract renewal option to the artiste. However, it is the cases of career stagnation and extortion that whirls the media, as was the case of Jaywon with Kennis music and MayD with Square records. Another possible cause of artiste dissatisfaction with a binding recording contract is the feeling of under-appreciation and disrespect as in the case of Harrysong with 5 Star music.

Cases of recording deals gone bad is usually difficult for both parties involved but especially for the signee. Artistes that go down this road have troubles making it back to the spotlight. This is why artistes, especially those aspiring to get signed must understand that not all record deals are divine. Albeit top record labels can quickly turn an upcoming artiste to a household name, it usually comes at a cost. Sometimes too expensive a cost.

Therefore, it is only wise for musical talents to read through and understand the contract lines before putting pen to paper. For upcoming artiste that are in hot demand by many labels you can get a smart lawyer to get you a much better deal because you are hot property and can call the tune. However only few have that luxury.

Most upcoming artistes would rather queue for the major labels, not seeing the blessing in signing for independent label. With indie labels, upcoming artistes would find it easier to get a favourable advance, although it may take longer to become a household name. Many indie labels would cut a balanced split of the profits. So artistes also have some say in what is being spent. For an artiste that takes this option to become successful, you can often earn more than you would have through a major label.

Moreso, Independent labels often have fewer artistes, so their focus on the career of their asset tends to be less divided. My advice for upcoming artistes seeking a record deal is to get an indie label with good structure, good understanding of the industry, promising future, one that places a favourable offer on the table and sign.

It is also wise to consider the option of pursuing a career as an independent artiste, as it appears less bureaucratic. However, to be successful at it, one would need a bag of finance, good management team and the basic element for musical career success which is, quality songs. It is also necessary to understand the dynamics of the industry, as this is useful for resource effectiveness.

In the music industry today, it is not just enough to make good music, it is important to build a brand. A good artiste is a brand in demand, that is what makes it an industry. It is part of becoming a successful artiste to understand this modus operandi and sought the best way to supply the demand of the market.

http://tushmagazine.com.ng/understanding-recording-deals-artiste/


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