Did you know it was possible for you to release your very own record without the aid of record labels, music contracts, recording contracts, whether they be from indie or major? Yes, the process of doing this all yourself can be a little intimidating simply because it can be easy to miss some of the legalities of the process but it is possible!



There are many issues to be considered when releasing a record without the help of good ole music business contracts. Now remember every artist and their goal is not the same so it is ok if you must deviate from some of these suggestions. As with writing about music contracts and such, some of these tips may be extremely reduced or put into layman's terms in order for the average guy or girl to understand them completely. Use this as a guide to help you on your journey to releasing your own record.

1. First, let's discuss investors. There are several types of investors but more importantly you will need to devise music business contracts for you and these parties to sign. This will ensure everything is not only legal but fully agreed upon.

2. Unless you are solo, you are going to have to have some sort of agreement within your group. You may need to devise music contracts on your own for the whole group to sign. This is because, whether you realize it or not, you are forming a partnership with the other members of the band. This should include finances, recording contracts, ownership, the group's identity or name and any other topics that the group decides needs to be agreed upon as a whole.

3. Along the way you are going to need people. You may need people for management, sound, engineering, recording or handling equipment. These people are considered "work for hire." To protect you and your group, these guys need to sign music business contracts stating their exact purpose and even include that they will not be entitled to anything such as royalties or ownership rights.

4. When releasing your own record, advertising, distribution and promotion is all up to you! This is serious stuff and needs to be considered ahead of time. People who sign music contracts usually have these sorts of things handled for them but the ball is in your court on this one. Write up a budget that thoroughly describes how much will be spent where. There are marketing, recording and manufacturing costs that need to be considered to name a few.

These are four mega important things to keep in mind when releasing your own album. The music industry is full of sharks and frankly some people don't want to deal with music contracts and recording contracts and all that jazz. Now a day, you don't have to! Releasing your own album is hard work but it can be done with the right preparation and a will to survive!