Record Labels

In the music industry, a record label is a brand and trademark image associated with the marketing and promotion of music recordings and productions and music videos. The record label company are primarily responsible for promotion and copyright protection of the artists' work and can also manage the production manufacture and distribution of the work as well. 


Within the industry, most recording artists have become increasingly reliant upon record labels to broaden their audience therefore it is important for artists and bands to be signed with a good and responsible record label. This will ensure that they gain success by having their work played and promoted on both the radio and television. A good record label will also secure the artist recognition with the public and more importantly - their target audience.


Types of Record Label
Labels vary from smaller, independent institutions to 'major' labels which are bigger and control a string of smaller labels, acting as a 'super power' within the industry. This of course has changed over the years as various businesses fight for market share.

Major labels (1988-1998)
1. Warner Music Group
2. EMI
3. Sony Music
4. BMG Music
5. Universal Music Group
6. Polygram

Major labels (1998 - 2004) 
1. Warner Music Group
2. EMI
3. Sony Music
4. BMG
5. Universal Music Group 

Major labels (2004-2008) 
1. Warner Music Group
2.EMI
3.Sony BMG (Sony and BMG joint venture)
4.Universal Music group

Major labels (Since 2009) 
1.Sony Music Entertainment
2.EMI Group
3.Warner Music Group
4.Universal Music Group