Music Business

A-Trak Discusses Indie Labels And Artist Merchandise

Al Lindstrom interviews DJ A-Trak as the DJ/producer/label owner discusses Fools Gold, the differences between indie vs major lables, and the benefits that new artists experience as a result of signing with an independent label rather than a major.

Notable Quote/Gems Dropped:

In this climate of the record industry, in order for a record label to survive, the label has to really be more than a record label. It has to be a lifestyle brand basically.

Part 2 after the break!

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Nick Catchdubs & Dust La Rock @ Fool’s Gold Offices

Fool’s Gold co-founders DJ A-Trak, Nick Catchdubs, and Dust La Rock discuss the founding and evolution of the label while offering a glimpse into the day-to-day activities and responsibilities of running a successful business. [via A-Trak]

Steve Stoute’s Thoughts On Music & Marketing

The.LIFE Files interviews record and advertising executive Steve Stoute as he explains  the similarities between the fields of music and marketing as well as general lessons learned while building businesses. You kind of go in and start, and figure out how to make it work later.   A lot of times you know that you … Read more

Oddisee On New Media & Music Business Strategies

Soul Culture drops an excellent interview with Oddisse during his recent trip to London. Here the Diamond District producer talks about his first Casio keyboard, discovering production during his senior year of high school, the influence of his multicultural heritage, and looking to other genres of music for inspiration. The real meat of the interview … Read more

M-Phazes Tells How To Get Your Beats Heard

Producer M-Phazes fields questions telling aspiring producers how to get their beats heard by decision makers.  While emphasizing that preferred tactics ultimately depend on individual goals, M-Phazes recommends distributing CD’s to labels, A&R’s, fellow producers and utilizing the the internet, web forums, etc. Notable Quote: "If you really want to try and land some placements, … Read more

Peanut Butter Wolf Interview: Starting Stones Throw + Music Business Trends

Chris Manak, more popularly known as "Peanut Butter Wolf", spoke with Bona Fide Magazine about his early recording career with Charizama, his personal response to major label difficulties, the beginning of Stones Throw records, and the importance of individual musical expression. Aspiring artists and producers may want to take note of his views about recent … Read more

Trent Reznor’s View of The New Music Economy

Digg Founder Kevin Rose sits down with Trent Reznor (NIN) to discuss his views and ideas about the new nature of the recording industry, records labels, branding, and music distribution. Some very interesting and insightful ideas are brought up regarding possible music business revenue models along with strategic advice for aspiring artists. Notable Quote: "We’re … Read more