I have had some EXCELLENT response to the last post about the "Performance Tax," as well as plenty of questions. First off, the post in question was admittedly broad in some of its statements and makes some significant generalizations for the sake of brevity. Second, while I am in complete opposition to the performance tax (although it's not like commercial radio is without its flaws as well), I not only recognize, but also respect the need for artists to be able to create but then to protect and control the distribution of their work. That is why I am writing this post. To clear a few things up... It all begins with whose side you are on. If you are for the artists, then the good news is that it has never been easier to create success as an independent musician! The "gate-keepers" to distribution and "middle-men" are fading away. Opportunities that once belonged only to deep pockets are now available to anyone with the drive to do all the work themselves that until now, was done by the major labels.
Major Record labels are not all inherently EVIL. In fact, several larger labels are proactive, innovative and forward-thinking. If not for their expertise and leverage, we may not have had moments in time like Led Zepplin or AC/DC Live At Donington. If not for his patron, Tchaikovsky wouldn't have given us the Nutcracker. But, the game has changed... the power has shifted and it is hard to argue that the needs and wants of the artist and their audience at large are best served by major record labels anymore.
"The system, which used to be closed off, is now wide open for anyone who wants to participate. The traditional players in the music industry were like tollbooth operators, and the price of admission was your music. Now, you don't have to ask anyone's permission, and the cost is minimal."-The Indie Band Survival Guide pp. 1.
It is also important to recognize that most of these discussions are in reference to "major" record labels as opposed to "indie" labels or just record labels in general. But I'll tell you RIGHT NOW that most of the labels you think are "indie" may have at one point been but, due to the structure of the industry, were probably forced at some point to sell themselves to the BIG BOYS. For real, I can't tell you how many times I have been sure that a label is "indie" only to find that, on the brink of extinction, Warner Music Group scooped them up. These days, major labels have teams of experts doing whatever it takes to look as "indie" as possible. But, among the thistles, there are innumerable indie labels and bands that are innovative, honest and have creativity and art in their hearts and priorities.
I guess that it really just depends on what it is that you are looking for. Many bands and musicians will only ever feel like they've succeeded if they are opening for Brittney Spears and on the top of the "Billboard" charts. Or for others, the true mark of success is getting "signed." That is fine. There is nothing wrong with that... seriously (Most of my favorite bands are). AS LONG AS YOU UNDERSTAND THE PRICE. First, do yourself a HUGE favor and read "The Problem With Music," by Steve Albini HERE. It may be a rude awakening for you. BUT, the good news is that once you get past the fear that: you can't do it without them and their money- you will see that the forecast for indie music is not only bright, but in many ways BETTER than any contract they may try to sell you. We will definitely continue to discuss this topic as well as other related topics in future posts, but for now, consider the following examples:
How many times during your younger years would you parents enforce their policies with the phrase: "While you are under MY roof..."? Lots? Enough that you'll hear it in TV, movies and other popular media until the end of the world. Why? Because that is how it works. When you rely on someone for something you couldn't or didn't provide for yourself, they are entitled to a certain amount of control over you. And if you step out of line, there is the very real possibility that they will take it away.
What about this picture? You are recently married. Your parents are of a more humble background while your spouse's family is significantly wealthier. Rather than starting from scratch, you opt for the assistance of their family. Their parents end up providing you both with your first car and perhaps even a house. Often times they do this because their son or daughter (your spouse) is their little angel and deserves the best. You feel at times that you have "stolen" their precious angel and wonder if they will ever really find you worthy. Driving their car and living in their house, you wonder what it would have felt like to have started your own life with your spouse in your own house (while perhaps much less extravagant). Well, you better believe that come holiday time, or naming the baby time that many important decisions are frustratingly out of your hands. You find yourself longing to establish some boundaries and declare your independence. (Maybe not! Maybe everyone is always on the same page and you are living the dream.)
Well, if you think that working to be worthy of the attention of major labels to someday be chosen for their money and power (what a weird way to look at it!) is any easier... you're wrong. If you're "lucky," they may invite you to their party... but the price of admission is: your music, creative control and the rights to copy and distribution FOREVER. Ever heard of Courtney Love? She said: "The band owns none of its work... they can pay the mortgage forever but they'll never own the house."
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