Record Label Wants 50% | Music Business Newsletter

In this episode of the Music Business Newsletter with Matthew Rix, I read an email from a singer-songwriter in Milwaukee, Wisconsin who’s being offered a record deal and something about it doesn’t feel right.Here’s what the label is asking for: • 50% of all royalties • 50% of publishing • Rights to re-release his already completed album • No upfront money • A 5-album deal (all company options, no artist control) • And recoupment on future recordingsIn other words… the artist takes on most of the risk, while the label takes a large portion of the upside.In this episode, we break down: • What labels should actually provide in exchange for ownership • Why giving up publishing early can be a major mistake • How recoupment really works (and why it matters) • The danger of long-term deals with no artist options • Red flags that signal a bad or one-sided deal • And when staying independent is the smarter moveThis isn’t about being anti-label.It’s about understanding leverage and knowing when a deal helps you… versus when it holds you back.If you’ve ever been offered a deal or wondered what to look out for, this episode will give you a real-world breakdown.Have a music industry question or situation you want help with?Send it to http://MatthewRix.com include as many details as possible so your story can help other artists too.#recordlabel #musicindustry #musicbusiness Listen to Mattrix Minute for daily Music Business insight without the music industry hype.SpotifyApple MusicAmazon MusicYouTube