My entire channel is self funded. If you would like to see more content like this you can donate to my channel through this link on my website rickbeato.com/pages/donate For ongoing support consider becoming a member of the Beato Club. The Beato Club is exactly like Patreon.
I don't think it'd be selling out to have industry reps pay to come onto your show. You'd still have final say on content. And reps have a lot of honorable stuff to say (especially if a pro like Rick is there to supervise).
I love the community aspect of you, Rhett, Mary, Tim, etc etc. It's really inspiring and helps encourage the likes of me. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
I'd love you to check out The Warning. Only thing you need to know: a power trio with fresh hard rock. Thought about them because they broke out in RUclips.
Living in a time when we can promote ourselves is lovely. The double edge sword is anybody can & do talent or very little are. The one thing about the record labels from the 70's & 80's is that as far as contracts a lot of them did shady deals without the artist knowing however they expected top notch quality so I have a weird love hate relationship with record labels. I'm sure Prince had the same feeling as he listened to the radio before he passed.
I discovered your amazing channel through that incredibly talented American guitarist -John Mayer- Rhett Shull. (Not shading JM in any way, just underscoring Rick's point about how every connection matters in this space.)
Rick does a good job of staying mentally forever young. Really impressive how well he's researched modern social media distribution, platform pros/cons/rules, and cutting-edge publishing strategies--while in all likelihood simultaneously hiding the disgust anyone his age should have for all of it. ha
@@ShawnBrandon888 Do you find yourself interested in the same topics? Are the bands you listen to the same types of bands? Does your core group of friends hang at the same websites? If yes, you have found those who are like-minded.
same here. A friend's local thrash band was hit up by a big artist and demanded a CD. Tried to turn em to spotify, youtube, he declined and asked specificall for a CD. They sent it to him :)
It's sad these days kids are missing out the the whole 'album' thing. Nothing like a great album. When I find an album of substance it is literally like developing a new friendship - they stay with you forever.
Rick is that favorite uncle that not everyone has, but should have. I feel very fortunate to have Rick and people like him available to me on the internet that I didn't have in life, and that's allowed me to find a community of my own where I can share and appreciate music. This channel is always an inspiration.
Last band I was in our first 2 albums, in 2008 and 2011, were put out by a record label that fronted the cost of the layout, production and distribution of the CDs so we didn't have to worry about that which was nice, but they also kept most of the money from sales, such as it was. Our 3rd and final album in 2015 was put out independently, and we made up a record label name ourselves to make it look "professional", and we hired a publicist to send it all over the world to get reviews and exposure, but still didn't sell that many copies, but still made more than when the label was handling it.
It's a tough business and artists are disposable in the eyes of the executives at the labels. My buddy worked since graduating high school in 1988 at making it in music. It took over 20 years of non-stop recording, playing shows and producing other artists to make steady money before he finally broke through and produced a Devo record around 2009. Then they hired him to play for them inplace if a lost member. At the same time he recorded a song on his own that got a lot of airtime and popular music video. He never gave up. He also has a brother in the biz who produces recordings for Miley Cyrus. My buddy succeeded without help from his brother. Very lucky. I hope you're still in the industry. I like to see success stories in a biz that is cut throat. Peace ✌
That said, I am sure that the record label's services did have value to jump start you to the next thing. You learned from the experience and the exposure to the industry. Keep it up! GP @ Eccentric Musician Company of New England
The really sad thing to me is that as the music gets incredibly worse, the money gets incredibly better. Whether it be downloading songs or selling outrageously priced tickets. Jimi Hendrix was paid $18,000 for closing Woodstock. That comes out to $125,000 in today's money. Before the pandemic hit, Ariana Grande closed out Coachella and was paid 4 million dollars. People still remember Hendrix's performance but do they still remember Grande's performance? Hers was only a few years ago and it's forgotten already. The only time I hear music today is when somebody drives near me and I hear their crap booming out of the vehicle. It all sounds the same. Yet that "artist" is making tons of money. All I can say is that you have to search really hard to find anything worthwhile to listen to. 40 years ago that wasn't the case.
Yes, it's hard finding something good to listen if you only find music by listening to whatever is playing in your local store or the radio or the top 40 playlists because that's all dominated by corporations. But there's a vibrant community of music lovers on the web that share and give exposition to amazing artists. Like the Post Punk (and a little experimental) scene in London, with fucking stellar bands like Black Midi, Black Country New Road, Squid, shame, among others. A literal scene that was exposed to the world because of the web. If that happened back then, you wouldn't be hearing of them until 30 years after when the sieve of time gave them their chance. And sure, they'll never be as big as the stars of yesterday, but they don't need to. If you really care about great music, just go to rate your music and start digging. I guarantee you'll find some stuff you love
What's most troubling about your post is the phrase "today's money". Why should a dollar I earn today be worth 99 cents tomorrow and 90 cents next year and 50 cents within a decade? It's no coincidence that the purchasing power of the minimum wage peaked in 1968 when the wage was only $1.25/hr. Why? Because that was the last time the US had a true balanced budget (the Clinton surplus was achieved by blending the Social Security "trust fund" with general revenue). It also fell right between 1965, the last year quarters and dimes were minted from silver, and the "Nixon Shock" of 1971 that converted the dollar from an asset to a debt instrument. One side of EVERY economic transaction is currency. Ever wonder why schools don't teach monetary policy?
Jimi Hendrix will live forever... Ariana Grande is another "flavor of the week" The great thing about record labels and radio in the 60's-90's, is there was actually a "filter" somewhat, for good and bad music being played.
I think the whole point is Labels nowadays aren't interested in you until you're already big and if you're already big then you don't really need them. Just keep doing what you did to get to that point and you'll have more success without them.
The main problem without a record label is that most artists do not have this "business" attitude (and it's not a negative criticism, it's just how it is, they are musicians / singers / artists / composers / songwriters, they are not business managers and most of the time they have no interest in managing a business, for them it's the most boring thing ever on Earth) and they also lack time to promote themselves. I believe that it is not necessarily the best independent artists that get the most success. Many world-class talented artists stay undiscovered, and if they were coached properly they would be huge stars. Kindest Regards ! 😀🙏🎵🎶🌠
I agree. I know how to make music, write songs, play guitar and I think I do most of that pretty well. I can't market to save my life and I hate it so much. I feel like a fish trying to climb a tree when it comes to all the "business" side of music. I just want to create music and have someone else try and promote it. I know that sounds lazy but I've dedicated a lot of time and effort to try and do the business side of things but I get know where.
The other thing is: it costs money to make money. Yea, there's a low barrier to entry putting your music on youtube (or wherever), but that also means it's hard to stand out and get listens when you're still unknown. Record companies have the resources to buy some exposure to get the ball rolling, but the average artist doesn't, even if they're inclined to take on the business aspects.
@@matthewsands1572 that is where you can actually get someone good with marketing and management skills, independently of course, and at least learn some of the ropes while they are helping the marketing part. The problem comes from the labels being able to do it on a massive scale. That said even bands like Evanescence started off small promoting with practically burned CD, and now with the streaming crowd it's even easier to hit even more potential fans than having to perform live in front of them first. Unfortunately, the massive amount of things funneling through online pushes many back unless they attract and maintain an audience somehow.
When you put out something, you wish it to either be able to walk with its own legs 💖 or rather die into oblivion. "Beauty" should have its own legs :-) What's the point of promoting something that will soon be forgotten anyway... 💞
I run a channel in support of Haley Reinhart, who after a disasterous relationship w/ Interscope, her first label, has sworn off Labels and is determined to make it as an independent artist. So for years there've been a small part of the fandom who insist the ONLY way she can 'make it' is to get signed. Even after almost ten years, they hold onto this antiquated notion that labels are the 'endgame' for musicians I guess it comes down to your definition of what 'success' is? IMO I think Haley's measure of success is to have a living making music as a career, which she has done for ten years. She is confident in herself and her talent and is willing to learn the industry. Also, she signed w/ a publishing company as one of her first moves, and that has paid dividends because of the income streams she's created through syncing and sales of her songs for advertising and movies. There are ways to "make it" as an independent artist, the technology of the 21st century gives you infinite access to your market, your ability to reach your audience, cutting out the music business middle man. Sure, luck has a lot to do w/ it, but labels are not the be all end all. Alot of artists are discovering this. Labels might get you a hit, but it doesn't guarantee a career. Putting the work in, gaining experience, networking the industry, that is a way for longevity in music
My wife and I discovered her a few years ago on PMJ....All About The Bass....we've been following her ever since. What I appreciate most about her (other than her voice and charisma) is her repertoire. I like hearing new, younger artists creating with classic sounds and styles...no drum machines, auto-tune or hip-hop beats. Do you guys accept unsolicited material from independent songwriters? Lol! I have a few old school tunes she might be interested in.
Hey! I still rock cds! Everyone attention is on vinyl so they’re decently priced these days. Way more practical than flipping records too. With my 200 disk changer I can listen to music all day without even touching it. 💿
I own quite a library of CDs and Vinyl yet still stream if I want to, especially for the Car and my home music system. However, I must point out Rick that the tangibleness of receiving an album, either in Vinyl or CD is something to look forward to. To pour over the liner notes, the lyrics, details of the musicians etc. still outweighs streaming it.
I've never had an LP or CD hang while buffering, so I agree. I stream new stuff to decide what I really like. If I stream it several times a week, I buy. Easy peasy. 👍😎
Absolutely enjoy reading liner notes of new CD or Record while enjoying the music. My latest has been Soft Machine “Bundles” album with Allan Holdsworth on guitar. Bliss! Have it on repeat in my Sony Car Disc-man plugged into my Sony MDR-7506 studio monitor headphones. Cloud 9!
Rick, I worked in a the music retail environmental for almost 16 years right out of high school. I saw this coming many many years back. When the record industry ceased to manufacture which was at the time, cassette and CD singles, for me that was the beginning of the end. The record industry refused to embrace the internet and was forcing consumers to purchase entire CDs and cassettes. Consumers revolted and sites like Napster and Limewire were born. Consumers refused to purchase entire albums for 1 or 2 good songs.
It's the whole spectrum of modern technology to produce music and to spread it that puts record labels out of business. But I think, in the end, will put a lot of quality musicians out of business as well. A lot of them will not be able to keep the ship floating. As a musician you have to be musician, accountant, promoter and producer all wrapped in one.
As someone who works in the publishing industry, I look at this the same way I look at people who say publishing companies are obsolete, because now anyone can publish their innermost thoughts all over social media. But in the same way that a writer's work is improved by a thoughtful editor, an eagle-eyed copy editor, and a talented designer, a musician's work can be improved by a creative producer and arranger, an experienced engineer, and a visionary videographer. Record labels have all of this talent and more at their disposal to help artists. Is the average garage band really going to be able to afford to book time in a studio and also track down and pay for that kind of support network? Not without a major GoFundMe campaign.
What publishing companies should be doing today is instead of having a house that puts out books, be a house that works with authors to get their books done right and be noticed.
@@christophertaylor9100 have you ever tried to distribute your own book? Ever had to warehouse one? I have, Those services are worth paying for someone else to do.
I think the problem is the corporatization and commoditization of music, concentrated into a few mega companies, not that the idea of a record label has outgrown it's usefulness. Back in the day there was Blue Note, Island, Elektra and later Asylum, and lots of others that had a "sound" that fostered talent, and gave a band a home. Today business is just too massive and corporate.
Hey Rick, here is a “business” idea for you, a contact for people to send their songs for your analysis, compositional inputs, harmony, general recording advices etc etc for a fee. Those serious with their craft would definitely invest.
Not really. My friend just convinced me it's better to own physical media vs digital. I didn't know before that sometimes when you buy/download digital media through a streaming/subscription service, you can't take your movies/albums w you if you cancel your subscription (or something like that.) If your pc crashes, there goes your digital library too. The only thing I do appreciate about subscription services is the absence of physical items. I've been happy to let go of a ton of CD's and DVD's. Less stuff taking up space. But physical items means they're yours permanently.
What RUclipsr musicians learn fast is how much work you have to put in to post just one quality video a week. Create and edit interesting content and engage with your Patreon supporters and entice more to fund your work, in parallel to creating, recording and producing your music, work on getting gigs and scheduling tours and manage all the administration of that. It is a lesson in what hard graft that is in order to stay independent and not compromise. It requires a team. Check out Mary Spender's interview with Adam Neely from 17 March 2020.
You are correct about the work part. If I want to post something then I need to think up content, record the content, edit the content, post the content and then promote the content. I really need about 5 or so people to get it all done. Consequently, I'm unable to post as much content as I would like.
yup..not a coincidence that all hit songs are created by a team of a dozen people in the production, before it even hits the promotional part. It's possible to make a community and do the grassroots approach, but you will always need a team to go to the next level.
EXACTLY. Most Musicians don't comprehend the amount of work that is involved putting it On Line and then comes the hard part... PROMOTING IT !! 😯 It's a nightmare of work and a good majority won't put in the work.. Best advice. Hire someone to promote it for you .. Ya, Ya, Ya.. It costs money... IT'S A BUSINESS 😎🤟
I just saw a hopeful story. Iron Maiden's new album debuted at #3. Done primarily through CD sales. They commented that their icons like Eddie make them a very visual band so they're doing well selling physical media through Target and Walmart of all places.
@@PaulCooksStuff Well, #3 nowadays is different than #3 20 years ago. And Iron Maiden is probably one of the few bands that have this kind of fans that are still into physical copies.
@@przemysawdobrzynski2590 It's not an isolated case. 7 of 14 UK #1 albums last year had higher physical sales than streams. 25% of global music industry revenue is physical sales. It's declining, but not finished yet.
Rick, If you have so many people sending you music and asking for promo advice, obviously you can't deal with that yourself but it's nice that you wish you could... why don't you set-up a group of trusted people that CAN, and will take-on the potential sucesses as an agent and/or mentor etc? You can then simply maintain overall policy control and oversee it but as hand-off as you need to be.
He has already had that career and probably left it for a reason. As said, the financial part, along with the bureaucracy involved would be way more work on top of him wanting to teach.
I still love all my CD's! I own like over 600 of them! I find CD's have the best sound quality! Music off the internet is hit or miss! There is something special about having the physical copy, sometimes with lyrics, or cool artistic concepts! I miss MuchMusic or MTV for you in the USA, I'm from Canada! It bums me out that Weird Al Yankovich isn't making any more CDs. So, it's only the 14 studio albums. No more since the 2014's MANDATORY FUN! I loved looking forward for his next album on CD! I wish I could do something more to keep this wonderful medium alive! Like if you agree with me! (I still do see a lot of benefits with online music, but for a music fanatic like myself, it's always QUALITY BEFORE QUANTITY!!!)
Another thing record labels did in the past was not just promoting the record but would be making sure the artists material was recorded, mixed and mastered correctly. I've heard some songs that are actually on Spotify as well and I just thought, that isn't mixed and mastered right. This is a big problem now, artists are not only supposed to be musicians but also managers, promoters, producers and businessmen. It's ridiculous. Something needs to change.
@@richatlarge462 Even Noel Gallagher said (even though he produced his 2nd album, "Chasing Yesterday") said he hasn't got the patience for the intricacies like spending half an hour tweaking a snare for example which his last producer (David Holmes) would quite happily do (admittedly on Noels more electronic based stuff I think he meant) and this is where you need each individual professional for each role. I have songs coming out my ears which are quite capable of being very successful (don't mean to blow my own trumpet excuse the pun) and although I can produce to a degree, I can't produce like David Holmes, George Martin, John Leckie etc, so they're sitting there on my computer doing nothing as I feel you HAVE / NEED to produce to an already releasable standard before sending them off to record companies or they would HAVE to be to release them yourself. Apologies for the long reply and obviously not aimed at you lol!
While I agree with Rick about the future of record labels, I disagree regarding CDs. I still buy CDs (and box sets) of music I want to own. I have never bought a streaming only subscription to anyone's music. I, as well as many other people I know, like tangibles and see the whole package, including cover art, inserts, booklets, etc.. Since I was a kid hanging out in record stores, I've always been excited to pick up a record I was excited about and rushing home to open it up, listen to it while gazing into the cover art and exploring the cover art and anything included inside. Then proudly placing it into my collection. I encourage musicians to continue making interesting tangibles to package their music with; things that may eventually become highly desirable. The Residents have been great at doing this throughout their existence.
Totally agree! Thousands of artists who are able to do really creative work because they don't have to kiss their label's butt. I also like the idea of being able to put more cash (almost) directly into artists' hands. I always try to add a little bit to the minimum price for an album.
I have a huge collection of CDs, and a CD player, and I get regular updates from Nepalm and Scarlett Records whenever new albums come out.i check out the songs on my phone and if they are good I buy them to support the band's I like. I only want physical media. When your precious Internet is done for and all your MP3 are gone, I'll still have my library of physical media
Mate... you *do* realize a CD it's just a media storage format (container) with Wav track *digital* files in it... right..? Exactly the same as, say..., an SD card with the Wav tracks from the CD in it (or Flac files for that matter).... right...? 😉 The only thing it *doesn't* have is a nice box with a nice booklet in it... that's the only "physical" difference between the two...
@@conan5885 but your SD card can be erased by a strong magnet, and I like my cases and booklets. And my CDs, from Korea come with posters collectors cards and big books with pictures of the groups and song lyrics and other stuff. You get that with a download.
@@gerardcote8391 "SD card can be erased by a strong magnet..." ?? Well that's a first for me... i don't' think so... you are probably confusing it with hard drive disks... SD cards can however go bad, just as any digital storage medium, including CD's, DVD's, Bluray's... You can have as many backups as you want for that, i have copies of my music in at least about 10 different places (and mediums). If the case and physical booklets are important to you, than i get it. For me they are not really important, what's important to me is to have my music ready to play and listen, and i can have all album art in a digital form attached to the digital album on any player.
Here in Washington DC radio stations are still very powerful. Morning and evening 'drive time' shows in particular, when people are in their cars going to and from work, reach a large captive audience daily. This is probably the main function of a major label these days as you have a snowball's chance in hell getting played on these big commercial stations on your own. Being played in rotation for several weeks has a HUGE impact on promoting a record including driving an increase in youTube plays, Spotify steams etc. For this reason labels and radio continue to be a big part of the equation imho. Success on social media is great too especially in that it can bring an artist to the attention of a major label but I don't think you can quite rule out the labels just yet.
Honestly...one of the reasons is that the consumer is tired of paying $17.99 for TWO amazing songs, ONE decent song, and 7 or 8 fillers. And then various countries in europe get the bonus tracks on the import. $35+ for and extra track? Love your channel, Rick!
Of course when a fairly unknown artist or band wishes to go on their fist real tour, they may have a difficult time financing it without a major label to cover the costs. Touring is not cheap - travel expenses and overnight lodging can get quite expensive.
Might not be a terrible idea for the artist to get a bank loan when they're just getting going, if they have any collateral. And keep budgets as low as possible without jeopardizing health. Or, find a partner by making it a business venture. Or maybe crowdsource funding.
Labels don't give money away. When any money comes back in, the label takes their investment first and a big cut off whatever comes in after. The artist may not get anything for a while unless it does really well.
This is a Record deal in 2021 : "Hey this is Rick Beato . Before we start I would like to tell you about a cool dude named Jesse Fillmore from Greenfield , Ohio . I came across his music the other day while looking up some super weird videos on youtube . Check him out , the music is so good ! Tell'em I sent ya ! " . 3 days later you have a demand for merch , shows and vinyl pressings :) . All due to people like Rick , Tom Buk , Tim P , Rhett ect .
"Super weird" sounds exactly like my own creative vibe! No offense to Rick, but you don't need him to give me a reason to check out your stuff; you just did that yourself! My problem is finding those like-minded people who get my particular brand of weird. Not many people go out of their way looking for blues tracks that are SUPER heavy on the synthesizers! Edit: okay, I just checked your channel, and all I see is an Eagles cover? Where's the rest of your stuff?
I watched your Thomas Newman/Shawshank Redemption video on the other channel and it was great. But, only recently did I start even seeing your second channel in my feed, so give it a little time to pick up and be patient. Both channels have great content!
You really underestimate the metal community. There's a fetishization of vinyl and cassettes that's unfathomable. Bands releasing demos through full-length albums on pro-pressed cassettes, or 5 color variants of the same album on vinyl in different patterns. You might be surprised!
YES! Glad someone has said this. You can see "Lyric Videos", Animated Video's, Filmed Videos, or just streaming tracks or "Albums" from the likes of Indie Labels; Nuclear Blast, Seasons of Mist, Metal Blade, Roadrunner, Century Media, and even smaller labels. I think most people don't have a clue what is "New" out there (and is NOT represented on "Spotify's Top 20 Metal etc., as I have written to Rick about), and that its a VERY hard-core community, including International listeners are "uploading" tracks and/or albums from classics, underground and the very obscure, from the past and present. This includes Prog Metal (TONS of International bands that are _not_ part of the Djent scene, which I wish Rick would look more into), as well as newer Progressive Rock bands, all with indie-labels making special edition box-sets, books with CD's and/or DVD's included, clothing, variant colored LP's and more. People need to searchout for these type of bands that provide "tangible" product that you can hold in your hand, while putting a disc or Lp (often with a soundcard) on a turntable like us "Old Timers" use to do to enjoy the whole package deal.
Hey Mr Beato I’ve followed you almost since you began your channel and you are a wise man you give people good insight and education in the music industry thank you for all good information ✌️😊
I love Bandcamp, but it's not really mainstream. It seems to be the place for those looking to break in, or those who are old and perhaps not as marketable anymore. Still, I've found some great music of many genres there. I love that it's international - my great find was Mdou Moctar from Niger - great guitar. I've even discovered some genres that I never really knew were genres - like American Primitive. The best thing is that I can download lossless audio files - because the truth is that mp3s suck (except that it has kept vinyl records alive - because that's how much mp3s suck).
Rick says he doesn't read comments anymore, so I think I'm safe in saying that streaming may be the future, but Rick you are WRONG. There ARE people 14-67 years of age who still want LPs, 7" vinyl, cassettes, and yes EVEN CDs!!! I am not the only one. And I don't care if it's trendy or not. CDs are the best way to pay once and never have to depend on a platform or sponsor revoking license or deeming it unpopular for Goth rock, Goth metal, Darkwave, and Synthpop bands. The truly great labels: SACRED BONES, NUCLEAR BLAST, 4AD, COOKING VINYL, ROUGH TRADE, HELLCAT, METROPOLIS all continue to have fans. LONG LIVE ROCK!!!!!!!!!😘🎸❤🎸🥰😍😛🤭 MAY THE STREAM NEVER PISS ON ME OR YOU!!! 😎
I'm not making music for money. It is a hobby. But I just feel so good when someone wants to listen to what I write and make. Just an acquaintance of mine who asked to be allowed to use one of my songs for her twitch-streams really made me feel good. Actually making money on my music could be of detriment to me because I live on disability. (And it is for real. No bullcrap excuses.). Listening to others who create music as a passion is also fun. Having "just" two people sincerely expressing how they really liked a song that I created. It is a boost. Partially because of recognition and partially because I can give something positive to someone.
I'm in a similar situation. On disability, music a labour of love, though I still want to do more with my music. I'm happy with the support I get....but if I got a bunch more I would gladly accept it. Have a good one!
Rick, I would be interested to hear your thoughts on Abba's new tracks. I thought they were quite good considering they haven't done anything together in 40+ years and are in their 70's now.
Thomas Newman!!!! Haunting, Dramatic, POWERFULL… The amount of strong emotion that his composition can manifest with only a few instruments involved is incredible
It's July 2024, and I was just reading on line how vinyl sales are growing. And Majors are releasing there Superstar artist music in all format. I'm a Platinum n Gold records producer. And I'm glad to hear, fans if they really like something they can buy it! I appreciate your Chanel.
Record labels are redundant, but it is a process yet to be realised. As for CDs, I hear that some people still like to purchase them (and other physical media) as they own the product in a way they don't quite own it through streaming. I don't see ownership of a recording as a big deal personally - and enjoy watching or listening to tracks streamed. Bands I really care about, I'll see live.
... and Iron Maiden just hit #3 in the album charts with 90% physical sales. It shows what can be done if you know your audience and have a retail strategy.
@@ngkktht774 Bands you love, you love forever. And you will get old, and they will get old. And maybe they can't tour. Or maybe you "grow up" and stop seeing them tour. And thus, the death of rock. 💀
I am now in love with the idea of a rick beato tour, do a couple what makes this songs greats, some music theory lessons, and get a local act to open... please make this happen
The other problem about DIY'ing yourself to Carnegie Hall is that it is impossible to do it yourself and come out with a record that's as polished as one from a major label with talented production/sound..etc people. Artists need loads of development money
So true, not to mention, promoting. DIY promoting is a full time job and most people, even if talented at music, are not good at graphic arts, promoting, business deals, sound engineering, media publishing.
Example 1: The Beach Boys best album is Pet Sounds. Brian Wilson was able to stay in the studio and not tour with the band. He also had a co-writer for many of the songs (Tony Asher), not to mention some great studio musicians (The Wrecking Crew) who contributed to the songs as well as thousands of others during the 60s. Example 2: The band Chicago was allowed to spend a year living in a house in California to write/arrange music. If I remember correctly, they had about 6 albums of material by the time they were done. It just goes to show that there is a lot more to great music than the artists. Labels, producers and studio musicians are all integral. Where would the Beatles be without George Martin?
I’m part of an indie music community who have found incredible success with their music on streaming platforms. We have created our own ‘scene’ in a fairly specific genre. The key is finding your network and working at it everyday. Also…I might add that Spotify also pushes your music for a long time (as you mentioned with RUclips) once you can trip off the algorithm.
Rick, besides a songwriter / producer I'm a graphic designer. I always loved to design Cd-covers and especially the whole booklet with artwork, photo's and lyrics. I think it's something great that got lost. It used to help me look up the people behind the music, like the musicians, the producer, mixer etc. That info is harder to find with digital media. I'd really love if extended artwork would return to accompany the music, because good artwork can elevate the music and help create an artist's or band's identity.
Finally subscribed to Rick Beato 2. Maybe put a link in the descriptions. I always ignore it in the video, because I want to watch it. Btw, the start of the music of Shawshank in the video gave me goosebumps. The start is clearly the best part.
Publishers and Labels still control what cream gets to the top. The approach now is develop singles and choose the most popular to put on an EP. It's the 50s all over again but democratization of the creative part makes it harder for most creators to be successful from just a label or even a songwriting cut. Streaming royalties are so low you have to create your own genre. Developing alliances has always been important, thus people still move to LA or Nashville.
Rick, I understand what you're saying, but I'm just not interested in any music format that requires an internet connection. I have hundreds of vinyl albums and CD's (and still buying them)- those are what get played every day in my house. If I find something good on the net, I'll buy the actual audio file.
Hello Rick, Dennis here and I cannot agree with you more. In the past 5 years, and certainly during the pandemic I have found numerous excellent bands through RUclips. I am a boomer, 68 year old retired firefighter so i remember the days of FM radio and records stores. In the past 5 years I have discovered many excellent musicians and bands, you for one! I found a band from Ashville, NC, Amanda Ann Platt and the Honeycutters, and excellent traditional country band. Another band, Lake Street Dive a progressive jazz/funk. Leonid and Friends, a super talented Chicago tribute band from Russia. Then there are The Petersens, a very nice family bluegrass band from Branson, MO who does some funky things like Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody and Bob Seger's Old Time Rock and Roll in a blue grass genre. The final band I have discovered on RUclips is in your neck of the woods, Foxes and Fossils in Smyrna GA, a multigenerational band Fossils (old guys) and Foxes (young women). Love your channel buddy, still trying to learn to play the guitar.
I was in a death metal band in 93. They said they kicked me out because I was too stoned all the time, but I’m pretty sure it was the record labels. I could have been a contender…
In much the same way Rick doesn't have time to listen to 75 tracks people send him, the average listener doesn't have the eons required to check out the voluminous amount of material released each week on SoundCloud, Bandcamp, etc. Hate them for the corporate thieves they are, but record labels were always fairly decent at culling it out the gems from the crap, getting quality music onto regional radio stations, and providing listeners the best bang for their listening time buck. I guess one could argue recommendations from contemporary peers could fill that gap left by the decimation of labels and the recording industry, but I'm not at all convinced.
This is a great video Rick. I on occasion have been asked similar questions about achieving “Viral” status on social media. It normally comes from an older person who is not very tech literate and thinks that it’s easy. Because the tech world, in their mind is easy, and anything easy is something anyone can do. I normally refer them to take a skill share subscription
Just a thought to share with Rick's viewers, I play guitar as a way to relieve stress and to nurture the creative part of myself. Rick's videos helped a lot in shaping some of my own musical ideas and clarify certain basic music concepts I identified in my favourite artists' work. Thank you very much Rick and keep up making great content!
I worked in finance departments in two record companies back in the remote past. In flat-out "return on expense" terms, Rick's recommended approach makes SO much more sense than trying to get an old-school contract.
Hey Rick! We're u sitting on a washing machine during the spin cycle today??? You seemed to be vibrating up and down a lot😅 Prob got a foot tap going...
Thomas Newman!!! Yes, I have been a fan for about 5 years, maybe a few more. I've never heard anyone else mention his (brilliant) work. I am going to have to check out your video! I'm back- I just took a peek at your video (Part 1 on Newman) and I only understand a bit of what you're saying (I need to study some music theory). I'd never heard of "Linean" before, for example. So, now I will take some lessons, and come back to it when I can understand it. I thought it was cool that you explained then easily started hitting the keys to demonstrate. Back yet again (sorry for the long post): Got the Book 4 bundle. Now I need to study!
I still buy and download mp3s. I'll never switch to streaming. Don't wanna depend on bandwidth and their libraries are limited, and also dependant on contracts.
I watched your Shawshank Redemption video front start to end. It was fantastic. How could anyone that's watching your channel not know, or love, Shawshank Redemption. One of the greatest movies ever.
I am watching this stuff because I am trying to understand what happened to the music! 100 songs every year and now it is next to none. What happened! Rick is trying to figure this out and so am I. God bless everyone!
And the good part of the community is a bedroom guitar player on the other side of the world can share in the community and feel welcome, learn and sometimes even have a laugh. I love it when you have Dave on he is a walking guitar encyclopedia, that guy has forgotten more about guitars than most of us will ever know. I really enjoyed you going through your guitars with him, "oh by the way i changed the pick ups on your guitar" " I didnt really like the sound of them so I put better ones in" I'm roflmao and so were you guys , great moment .Also just when you have people on for informal chats about whatever, they are good too. Cheers from Down Under.
Rick, did you ever realize how much you slightly bounce up and down while you are talking - LOL, guess your enthusiasm to communicate is almost like an internal motor for you.
Back in the early 90s, I worked in college radio, when major labels bought up a lot of distribution for smaller labels, and then started charging radio stations for the privilege of receiving new albums. I love album oriented radio as a format, and I appreciate the work that labels do... I also love self-publishing, but it's still an awful business model. Hopefully the pressure from channels like youtube pressures record labels to be better and work smarter. I still get most of my new music recommendations from CBC, the Canadian public radio.
What you're saying didn't work for me. I made my own website, put my music on multiple streaming music sites and it never got big and no one came to see us play. You need the push of someone who is good at it and has connections.
I still get and play CD's... It used to be albums where you could look at the cover, maybe open the gatefold, read the lyrics and liner notes, look at the pictures and enjoy the music while doing all of that. With CD's, it's just downsized a bit... Great channel Rick, watch a lot...
It's less about record labels per se and more about the hard-to-pinpoint "gatekeepers". The idea is that you have a better chance with the latter if you can get in with the former, but that may not be the case anymore. The gatekeepers get you on the major Spotify playlists and on the radio.
i play drums and guitar regularly in detroit ,personally i think people are sick of the digital platforms and want to go back to having hard copies of great music so they are going back to cds and records and tapes . nothing new seems to have any real substance and everyone seems to be a copy it all blends together .
I dunno Rick the labels still seem to be controling the really popular artist. I think I've done pretty well as an artist with no money but the record label artist seem to build a lot faster than I can. I've gotten some shoutouts from you tubers , added to Spotify editor playlists but it's a very slow grind. I think a label could probably blow my self promotion away. However I've recorded and produced everything myself and I don't wanna give away any rights.
It's true that you can do your own marketing and get yourself pushed out on playlists and social in a big way, but it's incredibly difficult (unless you happen to just get lucky). Learning all that stuff is very complex. When I was doing that stuff for my band I spent probably more time learning and implementing it all as I did actually doing music for the band. Most musicians wouldn't have the time or patience for it TBH. And paying someone really good at it to do it for you ludicrously expensive.
Ahmet Ertegun. That was back in the days when people started record companies because they loved music and knew something about it. The music was most important. In those days the labels had nurturing relationships with their artists.. Aretha, Led Zeppelin, Yes etc...They would invest in artists that they believed in and not expect to make any money until the second or third album. A lot of records today cost nothing to make. Billie Ellish's album was supposedly made on a laptop at a kitchen table . No investment or nurturing needed. Just rake in the money.
@@richardsampras4574 I don't know if you are familiar with Atlantic's history in music. Read a bit about it. And, whatever you read about it, for better or worse, that's what I miss.
Traditional publishing for books is in a similar situation. You can self publish easily, keep 100% control of your work, print on demand instead of printing a ton of books and having to store them, meet your own deadline, and promote yourself. You don't need the traditional publishing houses for anything.
Watch iTunes hip hop charts. Most of the time independent artists hold 2-3 top ten spots. YT reactors are the new DJs. Those independent artists are sending CDs through the mail. Record labels can cancel artists, control the content and timing of recording. And what they push these days, SMH. Support independent artists- there is a TON of very talented folks out there.
Yeah, I can't imagine why a modern band would want to share profits with a record company. For the same reason authors self publish instead of going with a publisher.
In a way we are back to selfmade musicians like before records existed. A Label was necessary because they had the money to record promote produce and distribute. But on the other hand because of the restricted shelf space in record stores had to push less musicians to more listeners. Creating the superstar out of that restriction.
The Tik Tok to streaming revenue model is grossly inadequate for promotion and sales generation for the majority of artists. Total disconnect with artistry and performance. If a video doesn’t have a comedic hook, most won’t even follow your channel. This makes most acts nothing more then poodles jumping through flaming hoops for three-tenths of a penny at a time. Disgusting. Over abundance has killed the value of music. Time to get back to scarcity. Take a deep dive into NFTs and you’ll see why the major music industry is toast.
No tour.....yet. Check out the smile as he says that..it doesn't take a mental heavy weight to know its just a matter of time simply because its so obvious Rick has such a loyal following, as he should, and we can't wait to see him live playing with his pals.Its been a joy watching his channel and his popularity grow especially because its so well deserved
Pretty sure the warden in Shawshank whistles "Ein Feste Burg" at one point-"A Mighty Fortress" (is our god), a good old Lutheran chorale :-) Talk about an inside joke.
Who is worse the record company for absorbing a song writers pay check giving most of your cut to streaming services or Spotify for exploiting the need of a song writer for exposure. I don’t understand how it works but there will be exploited or lost talent until creative rights are fundamentally improved for the legit talent.
My entire channel is self funded. If you would like to see more content like this you can donate to my channel through this link on my website rickbeato.com/pages/donate
For ongoing support consider becoming a member of the Beato Club. The Beato Club is exactly like Patreon.
I don't think it'd be selling out to have industry reps pay to come onto your show. You'd still have final say on content. And reps have a lot of honorable stuff to say (especially if a pro like Rick is there to supervise).
I love the community aspect of you, Rhett, Mary, Tim, etc etc. It's really inspiring and helps encourage the likes of me. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
I'd love you to check out The Warning. Only thing you need to know: a power trio with fresh hard rock. Thought about them because they broke out in RUclips.
Living in a time when we can promote ourselves is lovely. The double edge sword is anybody can & do talent or very little are. The one thing about the record labels from the 70's & 80's is that as far as contracts a lot of them did shady deals without the artist knowing however they expected top notch quality so I have a weird love hate relationship with record labels. I'm sure Prince had the same feeling as he listened to the radio before he passed.
You ever talk to Thomas Erak of the Fall of Troy? Check out their live vids INSANE
What an honour. Thank you for everything Rick. Xx
I discovered your amazing channel through that incredibly talented American guitarist -John Mayer- Rhett Shull. (Not shading JM in any way, just underscoring Rick's point about how every connection matters in this space.)
Just now listening. I see why Rick appreciates you.
I watched your video and shared it today as well :D You, Rick and Leon are the best!!
Haha! I was just about to make a comment to say how much I love Mary Spender and here you are! I love you, Mary Spender!
I think you're brilliant... I think I may have actually discovered your channel via Rick...
Rick does a good job of staying mentally forever young. Really impressive how well he's researched modern social media distribution, platform pros/cons/rules, and cutting-edge publishing strategies--while in all likelihood simultaneously hiding the disgust anyone his age should have for all of it. ha
There are aspects of SM that *everyone* should be disgusted with - regardless of age :-/
@@RogerBarraud many opportunities for judgment in life
Sometimes we boomers are all right! 😜
"Develope alliances with like minded people." Best advice for everyone, not just musicians. Music is a collaboration.
Yeah that’s what Audius is doing. It’s replacing Spotify and record labels.
Well damn, because that's where I'm screwed. I have absolutely no clue who is a like-minded person with me, musically.
Develope alliances with like minded people. Say what? Exactly what does that mean and how do you do that?
@@ShawnBrandon888
Do you find yourself interested in the same topics?
Are the bands you listen to the same types of bands?
Does your core group of friends hang at the same websites?
If yes, you have found those who are like-minded.
Brian Eno calls it "Sceious" search Eno and Scenious....
I still both use and buy CDs. I love a physical copy and while I know I'm in the minority, I know of plenty of other people that feel the same way.
Same here.
same here. A friend's local thrash band was hit up by a big artist and demanded a CD. Tried to turn em to spotify, youtube, he declined and asked specificall for a CD. They sent it to him :)
You guys are going to be the saviour of the music industry, speaking as an artist who is 7 years into making my album
It's sad these days kids are missing out the the whole 'album' thing. Nothing like a great album. When I find an album of substance it is literally like developing a new friendship - they stay with you forever.
Same here.
Rick is that favorite uncle that not everyone has, but should have. I feel very fortunate to have Rick and people like him available to me on the internet that I didn't have in life, and that's allowed me to find a community of my own where I can share and appreciate music. This channel is always an inspiration.
I feel this
Last band I was in our first 2 albums, in 2008 and 2011, were put out by a record label that fronted the cost of the layout, production and distribution of the CDs so we didn't have to worry about that which was nice, but they also kept most of the money from sales, such as it was. Our 3rd and final album in 2015 was put out independently, and we made up a record label name ourselves to make it look "professional", and we hired a publicist to send it all over the world to get reviews and exposure, but still didn't sell that many copies, but still made more than when the label was handling it.
It's a tough business and artists are disposable in the eyes of the executives at the labels. My buddy worked since graduating high school in 1988 at making it in music. It took over 20 years of non-stop recording, playing shows and producing other artists to make steady money before he finally broke through and produced a Devo record around 2009. Then they hired him to play for them inplace if a lost member. At the same time he recorded a song on his own that got a lot of airtime and popular music video. He never gave up. He also has a brother in the biz who produces recordings for Miley Cyrus. My buddy succeeded without help from his brother. Very lucky.
I hope you're still in the industry. I like to see success stories in a biz that is cut throat.
Peace ✌
That said, I am sure that the record label's services did have value to jump start you to the next thing. You learned from the experience and the exposure to the industry. Keep it up! GP @ Eccentric Musician Company of New England
I still primarily listen to music on CDs. And I still listen to the radio - although I have a great independent station in my area.
The really sad thing to me is that as the music gets incredibly worse, the money gets incredibly better. Whether it be downloading songs or selling outrageously priced tickets. Jimi Hendrix was paid $18,000 for closing Woodstock. That comes out to $125,000 in today's money. Before the pandemic hit, Ariana Grande closed out Coachella and was paid 4 million dollars. People still remember Hendrix's performance but do they still remember Grande's performance? Hers was only a few years ago and it's forgotten already. The only time I hear music today is when somebody drives near me and I hear their crap booming out of the vehicle. It all sounds the same. Yet that "artist" is making tons of money. All I can say is that you have to search really hard to find anything worthwhile to listen to. 40 years ago that wasn't the case.
Yes, it's hard finding something good to listen if you only find music by listening to whatever is playing in your local store or the radio or the top 40 playlists because that's all dominated by corporations. But there's a vibrant community of music lovers on the web that share and give exposition to amazing artists. Like the Post Punk (and a little experimental) scene in London, with fucking stellar bands like Black Midi, Black Country New Road, Squid, shame, among others. A literal scene that was exposed to the world because of the web. If that happened back then, you wouldn't be hearing of them until 30 years after when the sieve of time gave them their chance. And sure, they'll never be as big as the stars of yesterday, but they don't need to. If you really care about great music, just go to rate your music and start digging. I guarantee you'll find some stuff you love
What's most troubling about your post is the phrase "today's money". Why should a dollar I earn today be worth 99 cents tomorrow and 90 cents next year and 50 cents within a decade? It's no coincidence that the purchasing power of the minimum wage peaked in 1968 when the wage was only $1.25/hr. Why? Because that was the last time the US had a true balanced budget (the Clinton surplus was achieved by blending the Social Security "trust fund" with general revenue). It also fell right between 1965, the last year quarters and dimes were minted from silver, and the "Nixon Shock" of 1971 that converted the dollar from an asset to a debt instrument.
One side of EVERY economic transaction is currency. Ever wonder why schools don't teach monetary policy?
Jimi Hendrix will live forever... Ariana Grande is another "flavor of the week" The great thing about record labels and radio in the 60's-90's, is there was actually a "filter" somewhat, for good and bad music being played.
Arianna Grande sounds like a taco bell value meal...
@@ESP77769 flavor of the week? She's been famous for over a decade.
I think the whole point is Labels nowadays aren't interested in you until you're already big and if you're already big then you don't really need them. Just keep doing what you did to get to that point and you'll have more success without them.
The main problem without a record label is that most artists do not have this "business" attitude (and it's not a negative criticism, it's just how it is, they are musicians / singers / artists / composers / songwriters, they are not business managers and most of the time they have no interest in managing a business, for them it's the most boring thing ever on Earth) and they also lack time to promote themselves. I believe that it is not necessarily the best independent artists that get the most success. Many world-class talented artists stay undiscovered, and if they were coached properly they would be huge stars. Kindest Regards ! 😀🙏🎵🎶🌠
I agree. I know how to make music, write songs, play guitar and I think I do most of that pretty well. I can't market to save my life and I hate it so much. I feel like a fish trying to climb a tree when it comes to all the "business" side of music. I just want to create music and have someone else try and promote it. I know that sounds lazy but I've dedicated a lot of time and effort to try and do the business side of things but I get know where.
The other thing is: it costs money to make money. Yea, there's a low barrier to entry putting your music on youtube (or wherever), but that also means it's hard to stand out and get listens when you're still unknown.
Record companies have the resources to buy some exposure to get the ball rolling, but the average artist doesn't, even if they're inclined to take on the business aspects.
@@matthewsands1572 that is where you can actually get someone good with marketing and management skills, independently of course, and at least learn some of the ropes while they are helping the marketing part. The problem comes from the labels being able to do it on a massive scale. That said even bands like Evanescence started off small promoting with practically burned CD, and now with the streaming crowd it's even easier to hit even more potential fans than having to perform live in front of them first. Unfortunately, the massive amount of things funneling through online pushes many back unless they attract and maintain an audience somehow.
When you put out something, you wish it to either be able to walk with its own legs 💖 or rather die into oblivion. "Beauty" should have its own legs :-) What's the point of promoting something that will soon be forgotten anyway... 💞
These are actually pure facts and rarely seen perspective. Nice 👏
I run a channel in support of Haley Reinhart, who after a disasterous relationship w/ Interscope, her first label, has sworn off Labels and is determined to make it as an independent artist.
So for years there've been a small part of the fandom who insist the ONLY way she can 'make it' is to get signed. Even after almost ten years, they hold onto this antiquated notion that labels are the 'endgame' for musicians
I guess it comes down to your definition of what 'success' is? IMO I think Haley's measure of success is to have a living making music as a career, which she has done for ten years. She is confident in herself and her talent and is willing to learn the industry. Also, she signed w/ a publishing company as one of her first moves, and that has paid dividends because of the income streams she's created through syncing and sales of her songs for advertising and movies. There are ways to "make it" as an independent artist, the technology of the 21st century gives you infinite access to your market, your ability to reach your audience, cutting out the music business middle man.
Sure, luck has a lot to do w/ it, but labels are not the be all end all. Alot of artists are discovering this. Labels might get you a hit, but it doesn't guarantee a career. Putting the work in, gaining experience, networking the industry, that is a way for longevity in music
She's so damn talented. Her and Casey Abrams are my favorite Duo in my mind. I wish they could make more music together
@@JeremiahNichol Every chance I get, I suggest a short 6-8 date tour as a Jazz duo, I told Casey, maybe do Jazz covers of the Beatles? lol
She’s got great pitch! What a voice! Pretty & Sexy too! I’m a Fan
My wife and I discovered her a few years ago on PMJ....All About The Bass....we've been following her ever since. What I appreciate most about her (other than her voice and charisma) is her repertoire. I like hearing new, younger artists creating with classic sounds and styles...no drum machines, auto-tune or hip-hop beats. Do you guys accept unsolicited material from independent songwriters? Lol! I have a few old school tunes she might be interested in.
Musicians today must wear a lot of hats. I hope Haley continues to write and perform and garner a larger following.
Hey! I still rock cds! Everyone attention is on vinyl so they’re decently priced these days. Way more practical than flipping records too. With my 200 disk changer I can listen to music all day without even touching it. 💿
a lot o new records are only available on vinyl or download, CD is finished
I own quite a library of CDs and Vinyl yet still stream if I want to, especially for the Car and my home music system. However, I must point out Rick that the tangibleness of receiving an album, either in Vinyl or CD is something to look forward to. To pour over the liner notes, the lyrics, details of the musicians etc. still outweighs streaming it.
The man is a genius. Most people lose their relevance because they never realize that technology and social media are changing.
Pore :-)
I've never had an LP or CD hang while buffering, so I agree.
I stream new stuff to decide what I really like. If I stream it several times a week, I buy.
Easy peasy.
👍😎
It sounds a lot better than MP3 or computer audio
Absolutely enjoy reading liner notes of new CD or Record while enjoying the music. My latest has been Soft Machine “Bundles” album with Allan Holdsworth on guitar. Bliss! Have it on repeat in my Sony Car Disc-man plugged into my Sony MDR-7506 studio monitor headphones. Cloud 9!
Rick, I worked in a the music retail environmental for almost 16 years right out of high school. I saw this coming many many years back. When the record industry ceased to manufacture which was at the time, cassette and CD singles, for me that was the beginning of the end. The record industry refused to embrace the internet and was forcing consumers to purchase entire CDs and cassettes. Consumers revolted and sites like Napster and Limewire were born. Consumers refused to purchase entire albums for 1 or 2 good songs.
@ Lars Ulrich was right.
It's the whole spectrum of modern technology to produce music and to spread it that puts record labels out of business. But I think, in the end, will put a lot of quality musicians out of business as well. A lot of them will not be able to keep the ship floating. As a musician you have to be musician, accountant, promoter and producer all wrapped in one.
Audius is replacing Spotify and record labels.
As someone who works in the publishing industry, I look at this the same way I look at people who say publishing companies are obsolete, because now anyone can publish their innermost thoughts all over social media. But in the same way that a writer's work is improved by a thoughtful editor, an eagle-eyed copy editor, and a talented designer, a musician's work can be improved by a creative producer and arranger, an experienced engineer, and a visionary videographer. Record labels have all of this talent and more at their disposal to help artists. Is the average garage band really going to be able to afford to book time in a studio and also track down and pay for that kind of support network? Not without a major GoFundMe campaign.
What publishing companies should be doing today is instead of having a house that puts out books, be a house that works with authors to get their books done right and be noticed.
@@christophertaylor9100 that's what a publisher does-help authors get their books done right and be noticed.
They also publish and distribute, and own the books until the contract is up. That's the dead part of the business that should be abandoned.
@@christophertaylor9100 have you ever tried to distribute your own book? Ever had to warehouse one? I have, Those services are worth paying for someone else to do.
Also, the up-front cost of printing (which is what I think you mean by "publishing") is cost-prohibitive for most authors.
I think the problem is the corporatization and commoditization of music, concentrated into a few mega companies, not that the idea of a record label has outgrown it's usefulness. Back in the day there was Blue Note, Island, Elektra and later Asylum, and lots of others that had a "sound" that fostered talent, and gave a band a home. Today business is just too massive and corporate.
I still enjoy listening to my CD's. But I really, really enjoy listening to vinyl, that's the best😁👍🏻
Hey Rick, here is a “business” idea for you, a contact for people to send their songs for your analysis, compositional inputs, harmony, general recording advices etc etc for a fee. Those serious with their craft would definitely invest.
@@delicious_crepes hey how so? Care to tell me???
Isn't this part of the beato club thing?
Now I know I'm a real caveman, because I still buy and listen to CDs.
Part of the same tribe. 👍
I still buy vinyl!
🙋♂️me too.
There's nothing better than VINYL❣️🎧🎶
Not really. My friend just convinced me it's better to own physical media vs digital. I didn't know before that sometimes when you buy/download digital media through a streaming/subscription service, you can't take your movies/albums w you if you cancel your subscription (or something like that.) If your pc crashes, there goes your digital library too. The only thing I do appreciate about subscription services is the absence of physical items. I've been happy to let go of a ton of CD's and DVD's. Less stuff taking up space. But physical items means they're yours permanently.
What RUclipsr musicians learn fast is how much work you have to put in to post just one quality video a week. Create and edit interesting content and engage with your Patreon supporters and entice more to fund your work, in parallel to creating, recording and producing your music, work on getting gigs and scheduling tours and manage all the administration of that. It is a lesson in what hard graft that is in order to stay independent and not compromise. It requires a team.
Check out Mary Spender's interview with Adam Neely from 17 March 2020.
Audius is replacing Spotify and record labels.
You are correct about the work part. If I want to post something then I need to think up content, record the content, edit the content, post the content and then promote the content. I really need about 5 or so people to get it all done. Consequently, I'm unable to post as much content as I would like.
yup..not a coincidence that all hit songs are created by a team of a dozen people in the production, before it even hits the promotional part. It's possible to make a community and do the grassroots approach, but you will always need a team to go to the next level.
EXACTLY.
Most Musicians don't comprehend the amount of work that is involved putting it On Line and then comes the hard part... PROMOTING IT !! 😯
It's a nightmare of work and a good majority won't put in the work.. Best advice. Hire someone to promote it for you .. Ya, Ya, Ya.. It costs money...
IT'S A BUSINESS 😎🤟
My friend who owns a record store told me that the labels don't even ship demos, and posters and flats, and other promos anymore.
Rick, you should do more What Makes This Song Great with indie artists.
^^^^^ This ^^^^^
Yes, have said this and so badly hope and wish he would!
Have to make great songs first.
Modest Mouse
Franz Ferdinand
Arctic Monkeys
Foals
Tame Impala
anything like this would be sweet
@@KeeperOfPoops I would really like to see Rick's take on Modest Mouse. Been my favorite band for over 20 years.
Rick ,I love the way you run this channel. Its so obvious first and foremost, your a true fan!
I just saw a hopeful story. Iron Maiden's new album debuted at #3. Done primarily through CD sales. They commented that their icons like Eddie make them a very visual band so they're doing well selling physical media through Target and Walmart of all places.
90% physical. Mind boggling, but maybe that's why the labels aren't all stupid or dead (yet).
@@PaulCooksStuff Well, #3 nowadays is different than #3 20 years ago. And Iron Maiden is probably one of the few bands that have this kind of fans that are still into physical copies.
@@przemysawdobrzynski2590 It's not an isolated case. 7 of 14 UK #1 albums last year had higher physical sales than streams. 25% of global music industry revenue is physical sales. It's declining, but not finished yet.
@@PaulCooksStuff Not yet. But soon. And I say it as a fan of physical media. But, the question is: are these physical sales CD's or maybe vinyl?
Rick, If you have so many people sending you music and asking for promo advice, obviously you can't deal with that yourself but it's nice that you wish you could... why don't you set-up a group of trusted people that CAN, and will take-on the potential sucesses as an agent and/or mentor etc? You can then simply maintain overall policy control and oversee it but as hand-off as you need to be.
You know it costs money lmao?
He has already had that career and probably left it for a reason. As said, the financial part, along with the bureaucracy involved would be way more work on top of him wanting to teach.
Forward thinking,sounds interesting
Because he's here just to sell his book and stuff
Ha ha, sounds like the starting of a record company....
I still love all my CD's! I own like over 600 of them! I find CD's have the best sound quality! Music off the internet is hit or miss! There is something special about having the physical copy, sometimes with lyrics, or cool artistic concepts! I miss MuchMusic or MTV for you in the USA, I'm from Canada! It bums me out that Weird Al Yankovich isn't making any more CDs. So, it's only the 14 studio albums. No more since the 2014's MANDATORY FUN! I loved looking forward for his next album on CD! I wish I could do something more to keep this wonderful medium alive! Like if you agree with me! (I still do see a lot of benefits with online music, but for a music fanatic like myself, it's always QUALITY BEFORE QUANTITY!!!)
Thank you for being so clear and honest:) I have been in the music business since the 70's and hearing you give an overview is so useful.
I've bought 4 CDs this month and about 25 CDs this year.
Audius is replacing Spotify and record labels.
I STILL rock CDs.
Yeah I love CD's. They don't track you and you're able to own them, trade them, gift them, resell them. Streaming definitely has big downsides to it.
🙋♂️
Another thing record labels did in the past was not just promoting the record but would be making sure the artists material was recorded, mixed and mastered correctly. I've heard some songs that are actually on Spotify as well and I just thought, that isn't mixed and mastered right. This is a big problem now, artists are not only supposed to be musicians but also managers, promoters, producers and businessmen. It's ridiculous. Something needs to change.
So true. Somehow they expect you to produce your songs on a par with big-studio recordings.
@@richatlarge462 Even Noel Gallagher said (even though he produced his 2nd album, "Chasing Yesterday") said he hasn't got the patience for the intricacies like spending half an hour tweaking a snare for example which his last producer (David Holmes) would quite happily do (admittedly on Noels more electronic based stuff I think he meant) and this is where you need each individual professional for each role. I have songs coming out my ears which are quite capable of being very successful (don't mean to blow my own trumpet excuse the pun) and although I can produce to a degree, I can't produce like David Holmes, George Martin, John Leckie etc, so they're sitting there on my computer doing nothing as I feel you HAVE / NEED to produce to an already releasable standard before sending them off to record companies or they would HAVE to be to release them yourself. Apologies for the long reply and obviously not aimed at you lol!
@ Exactly; why bother with all of it since the public doesn't want to or have to pay for music anymore.
@@HabAnagarek Yeah seems that way.
While I agree with Rick about the future of record labels, I disagree regarding CDs. I still buy CDs (and box sets) of music I want to own. I have never bought a streaming only subscription to anyone's music. I, as well as many other people I know, like tangibles and see the whole package, including cover art, inserts, booklets, etc.. Since I was a kid hanging out in record stores, I've always been excited to pick up a record I was excited about and rushing home to open it up, listen to it while gazing into the cover art and exploring the cover art and anything included inside. Then proudly placing it into my collection.
I encourage musicians to continue making interesting tangibles to package their music with; things that may eventually become highly desirable. The Residents have been great at doing this throughout their existence.
Only a fool doesn't have hard copies of the music they love in the modern era of cancelling
I don’t disagree at all but sadly you’re 1% of the current listening public.
Streaming music is great if you like poor quality sound
I really like all the small grassroots micro labels that now inhabit Bandcamp, they seem to be proliferating and thriving.
Totally agree! Thousands of artists who are able to do really creative work because they don't have to kiss their label's butt. I also like the idea of being able to put more cash (almost) directly into artists' hands. I always try to add a little bit to the minimum price for an album.
I watched it all the way through. Ennio Morricone does a similar thing in ""The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly" the first time you see "The Bad".
One of my all time favs!
I have a huge collection of CDs, and a CD player, and I get regular updates from Nepalm and Scarlett Records whenever new albums come out.i check out the songs on my phone and if they are good I buy them to support the band's I like. I only want physical media.
When your precious Internet is done for and all your MP3 are gone, I'll still have my library of physical media
Mate... you *do* realize a CD it's just a media storage format (container) with Wav track *digital* files in it... right..?
Exactly the same as, say..., an SD card with the Wav tracks from the CD in it (or Flac files for that matter).... right...? 😉
The only thing it *doesn't* have is a nice box with a nice booklet in it... that's the only "physical" difference between the two...
@@conan5885 but your SD card can be erased by a strong magnet, and I like my cases and booklets. And my CDs, from Korea come with posters collectors cards and big books with pictures of the groups and song lyrics and other stuff.
You get that with a download.
@@gerardcote8391 "SD card can be erased by a strong magnet..." ??
Well that's a first for me... i don't' think so... you are probably confusing it with hard drive disks...
SD cards can however go bad, just as any digital storage medium, including CD's, DVD's, Bluray's...
You can have as many backups as you want for that, i have copies of my music in at least about 10 different places (and mediums).
If the case and physical booklets are important to you, than i get it.
For me they are not really important, what's important to me is to have my music ready to play and listen, and i can have all album art in a digital form attached to the digital album on any player.
Here in Washington DC radio stations are still very powerful. Morning and evening 'drive time' shows in particular, when people are in their cars going to and from work, reach a large captive audience daily. This is probably the main function of a major label these days as you have a snowball's chance in hell getting played on these big commercial stations on your own. Being played in rotation for several weeks has a HUGE impact on promoting a record including driving an increase in youTube plays, Spotify steams etc. For this reason labels and radio continue to be a big part of the equation imho. Success on social media is great too especially in that it can bring an artist to the attention of a major label but I don't think you can quite rule out the labels just yet.
flounder had me send him some songs like 13 years ago before Elliot fired him or whatever
Honestly...one of the reasons is that the consumer is tired of paying $17.99 for TWO amazing songs, ONE decent song, and 7 or 8 fillers. And then various countries in europe get the bonus tracks on the import. $35+ for and extra track? Love your channel, Rick!
Of course when a fairly unknown artist or band wishes to go on their fist real tour, they may have a difficult time financing it without a major label to cover the costs. Touring is not cheap - travel expenses and overnight lodging can get quite expensive.
Might not be a terrible idea for the artist to get a bank loan when they're just getting going, if they have any collateral. And keep budgets as low as possible without jeopardizing health. Or, find a partner by making it a business venture. Or maybe crowdsource funding.
It's best to just not try to make a living in music.
Labels don't give money away. When any money comes back in, the label takes their investment first and a big cut off whatever comes in after. The artist may not get anything for a while unless it does really well.
@@joebo1041 better to fail than to die with regrets.
@@zacksguitarhacks6390 I usually have more regret about something dumb that I did, and have very little regrets about things I never did.
Record stores and local radio were both cornerstones of local community. It feels like we've lost something with everything being online.
This is a Record deal in 2021 : "Hey this is Rick Beato . Before we start I would like to tell you about a cool dude named Jesse Fillmore from Greenfield , Ohio . I came across his music the other day while looking up some super weird videos on youtube . Check him out , the music is so good ! Tell'em I sent ya ! " . 3 days later you have a demand for merch , shows and vinyl pressings :) . All due to people like Rick , Tom Buk , Tim P , Rhett ect .
"Super weird" sounds exactly like my own creative vibe! No offense to Rick, but you don't need him to give me a reason to check out your stuff; you just did that yourself!
My problem is finding those like-minded people who get my particular brand of weird. Not many people go out of their way looking for blues tracks that are SUPER heavy on the synthesizers!
Edit: okay, I just checked your channel, and all I see is an Eagles cover? Where's the rest of your stuff?
I watched your Thomas Newman/Shawshank Redemption video on the other channel and it was great. But, only recently did I start even seeing your second channel in my feed, so give it a little time to pick up and be patient. Both channels have great content!
You really underestimate the metal community. There's a fetishization of vinyl and cassettes that's unfathomable. Bands releasing demos through full-length albums on pro-pressed cassettes, or 5 color variants of the same album on vinyl in different patterns. You might be surprised!
YES! Glad someone has said this. You can see "Lyric Videos", Animated Video's, Filmed Videos, or just streaming tracks or "Albums" from the likes of Indie Labels; Nuclear Blast, Seasons of Mist, Metal Blade, Roadrunner, Century Media, and even smaller labels. I think most people don't have a clue what is "New" out there (and is NOT represented on "Spotify's Top 20 Metal etc., as I have written to Rick about), and that its a VERY hard-core community, including International listeners are "uploading" tracks and/or albums from classics, underground and the very obscure, from the past and present.
This includes Prog Metal (TONS of International bands that are _not_ part of the Djent scene, which I wish Rick would look more into), as well as newer Progressive Rock bands, all with indie-labels making special edition box-sets, books with CD's and/or DVD's included, clothing, variant colored LP's and more.
People need to searchout for these type of bands that provide "tangible" product that you can hold in your hand, while putting a disc or Lp (often with a soundcard) on a turntable like us "Old Timers" use to do to enjoy the whole package deal.
Hey Mr Beato I’ve followed you almost since you began your channel and you are a wise man you give people good insight and education in the music industry thank you for all good information ✌️😊
I still buy physical formats - CDs and Vinyl - New and 2nd hand
I love Bandcamp, but it's not really mainstream. It seems to be the place for those looking to break in, or those who are old and perhaps not as marketable anymore. Still, I've found some great music of many genres there. I love that it's international - my great find was Mdou Moctar from Niger - great guitar. I've even discovered some genres that I never really knew were genres - like American Primitive. The best thing is that I can download lossless audio files - because the truth is that mp3s suck (except that it has kept vinyl records alive - because that's how much mp3s suck).
Rick says he doesn't read comments anymore, so I think I'm safe in saying that streaming may be the future, but Rick you are WRONG. There ARE people 14-67 years of age who still want LPs, 7" vinyl, cassettes, and yes EVEN CDs!!! I am not the only one. And I don't care if it's trendy or not. CDs are the best way to pay once and never have to depend on a platform or sponsor revoking license or deeming it unpopular for Goth rock, Goth metal, Darkwave, and Synthpop bands. The truly great labels: SACRED BONES, NUCLEAR BLAST, 4AD, COOKING VINYL, ROUGH TRADE, HELLCAT, METROPOLIS all continue to have fans. LONG LIVE ROCK!!!!!!!!!😘🎸❤🎸🥰😍😛🤭 MAY THE STREAM NEVER PISS ON ME OR YOU!!! 😎
Nice video. Just an FYI, I got a survey from Google about one of your videos. Rated you 5 stars. You deserve it. I love your stuff.
I'm not making music for money.
It is a hobby.
But I just feel so good when someone wants to listen to what I write and make.
Just an acquaintance of mine who asked to be allowed to use one of my songs for her twitch-streams really made me feel good.
Actually making money on my music could be of detriment to me because I live on disability. (And it is for real. No bullcrap excuses.).
Listening to others who create music as a passion is also fun.
Having "just" two people sincerely expressing how they really liked a song that I created.
It is a boost. Partially because of recognition and partially because I can give something positive to someone.
I'm in a similar situation. On disability, music a labour of love, though I still want to do more with my music. I'm happy with the support I get....but if I got a bunch more I would gladly accept it. Have a good one!
I watched the Shawshank video, I can’t imagine why no one would turn away .. that’s such a great film. People got watch it.
Rick, I would be interested to hear your thoughts on Abba's new tracks. I thought they were quite good considering they haven't done anything together in 40+ years and are in their 70's now.
I immediately thought "I want the new ABBA CD. Then looked around "Hmm, where would I play it?"
Thomas Newman!!!! Haunting, Dramatic, POWERFULL… The amount of strong emotion that his composition can manifest with only a few instruments involved is incredible
I still buy CDs if the song or songs I want are not available in FLAC or WAV. Streaming or some form of lossless audio doesn't do it for me.
It's July 2024, and I was just reading on line how vinyl sales are growing. And Majors are releasing there Superstar artist music in all format. I'm a Platinum n Gold records producer. And I'm glad to hear, fans if they really like something they can buy it! I appreciate your Chanel.
Record labels are redundant, but it is a process yet to be realised. As for CDs, I hear that some people still like to purchase them (and other physical media) as they own the product in a way they don't quite own it through streaming. I don't see ownership of a recording as a big deal personally - and enjoy watching or listening to tracks streamed. Bands I really care about, I'll see live.
Audius is replacing Spotify and record labels.
... and Iron Maiden just hit #3 in the album charts with 90% physical sales. It shows what can be done if you know your audience and have a retail strategy.
@@ngkktht774 Bands you love, you love forever. And you will get old, and they will get old. And maybe they can't tour. Or maybe you "grow up" and stop seeing them tour. And thus, the death of rock. 💀
I am now in love with the idea of a rick beato tour, do a couple what makes this songs greats, some music theory lessons, and get a local act to open... please make this happen
The other problem about DIY'ing yourself to Carnegie Hall is that it is impossible to do it yourself and come out with a record that's as polished as one from a major label with talented production/sound..etc people. Artists need loads of development money
So true, not to mention, promoting. DIY promoting is a full time job and most people, even if talented at music, are not good at graphic arts, promoting, business deals, sound engineering, media publishing.
Anyone can rent Carnegie Hall though. You can check the rates on their website.
So true I need money I didn't let it stop me but it's not polished at all it's basicly live recording quality
Example 1: The Beach Boys best album is Pet Sounds. Brian Wilson was able to stay in the studio and not tour with the band. He also had a co-writer for many of the songs (Tony Asher), not to mention some great studio musicians (The Wrecking Crew) who contributed to the songs as well as thousands of others during the 60s.
Example 2: The band Chicago was allowed to spend a year living in a house in California to write/arrange music. If I remember correctly, they had about 6 albums of material by the time they were done.
It just goes to show that there is a lot more to great music than the artists. Labels, producers and studio musicians are all integral. Where would the Beatles be without George Martin?
I’m part of an indie music community who have found incredible success with their music on streaming platforms. We have created our own ‘scene’ in a fairly specific genre. The key is finding your network and working at it everyday. Also…I might add that Spotify also pushes your music for a long time (as you mentioned with RUclips) once you can trip off the algorithm.
Thomas Newman is my favorite film composer. Finding Nemo and American Beauty....two totally different movies, but you know it's Thomas Newman.
Rick, besides a songwriter / producer I'm a graphic designer. I always loved to design Cd-covers and especially the whole booklet with artwork, photo's and lyrics. I think it's something great that got lost. It used to help me look up the people behind the music, like the musicians, the producer, mixer etc. That info is harder to find with digital media. I'd really love if extended artwork would return to accompany the music, because good artwork can elevate the music and help create an artist's or band's identity.
i bought the last Iron Maiden CD i’ll have you know
i dug the art & (weirdly perhaps) i like to support artists
Finally subscribed to Rick Beato 2. Maybe put a link in the descriptions. I always ignore it in the video, because I want to watch it. Btw, the start of the music of Shawshank in the video gave me goosebumps. The start is clearly the best part.
Either Rick has a massage chair or he had too much coffee before the live stream!!!
I thought it was my coffee levels..
He’s just keeping time while he talks
het took his jab
@@camwinston5248 Restless leg syndrome (not really) but jokingly lol!
Man, I had to stop watching and just listen, the bounce was making me sick.
Publishers and Labels still control what cream gets to the top. The approach now is develop singles and choose the most popular to put on an EP. It's the 50s all over again but democratization of the creative part makes it harder for most creators to be successful from just a label or even a songwriting cut. Streaming royalties are so low you have to create your own genre. Developing alliances has always been important, thus people still move to LA or Nashville.
Rick, I understand what you're saying, but I'm just not interested in any music format that requires an internet connection. I have hundreds of vinyl albums and CD's (and still buying them)- those are what get played every day in my house. If I find something good on the net, I'll buy the actual audio file.
Hello Rick, Dennis here and I cannot agree with you more. In the past 5 years, and certainly during the pandemic I have found numerous excellent bands through RUclips. I am a boomer, 68 year old retired firefighter so i remember the days of FM radio and records stores. In the past 5 years I have discovered many excellent musicians and bands, you for one! I found a band from Ashville, NC, Amanda Ann Platt and the Honeycutters, and excellent traditional country band. Another band, Lake Street Dive a progressive jazz/funk. Leonid and Friends, a super talented Chicago tribute band from Russia. Then there are The Petersens, a very nice family bluegrass band from Branson, MO who does some funky things like Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody and Bob Seger's Old Time Rock and Roll in a blue grass genre. The final band I have discovered on RUclips is in your neck of the woods, Foxes and Fossils in Smyrna GA, a multigenerational band Fossils (old guys) and Foxes (young women). Love your channel buddy, still trying to learn to play the guitar.
18:37 "if you get a chance check out my shorts"
Well that got weird quickly.
I was in a death metal band in 93. They said they kicked me out because I was too stoned all the time, but I’m pretty sure it was the record labels. I could have been a contender…
I still listen to cd's and vinyl. The music is much better than what I can stream through my computer or tv.
Excellent observations once again usefully exploding some of the myths pushed out by music colleges and other such concerns!
In much the same way Rick doesn't have time to listen to 75 tracks people send him, the average listener doesn't have the eons required to check out the voluminous amount of material released each week on SoundCloud, Bandcamp, etc. Hate them for the corporate thieves they are, but record labels were always fairly decent at culling it out the gems from the crap, getting quality music onto regional radio stations, and providing listeners the best bang for their listening time buck. I guess one could argue recommendations from contemporary peers could fill that gap left by the decimation of labels and the recording industry, but I'm not at all convinced.
@@maplesyrup4881 Audius is replacing Spotify and record labels. All power back to the musicians!
@@bits_for_bytes Power is nothing without an audience. The OP's point is true, too much content makes it hard for the good acts to surface.
I trust my friends and my own dinkin around in record stores, books, etc. MORE THAN I DO THE ALGORITHM.
This is a great video Rick. I on occasion have been asked similar questions about achieving “Viral” status on social media. It normally comes from an older person who is not very tech literate and thinks that it’s easy. Because the tech world, in their mind is easy, and anything easy is something anyone can do. I normally refer them to take a skill share subscription
Just a thought to share with Rick's viewers, I play guitar as a way to relieve stress and to nurture the creative part of myself. Rick's videos helped a lot in shaping some of my own musical ideas and clarify certain basic music concepts I identified in my favourite artists' work. Thank you very much Rick and keep up making great content!
I worked in finance departments in two record companies back in the remote past. In flat-out "return on expense" terms, Rick's recommended approach makes SO much more sense than trying to get an old-school contract.
Hey Rick! We're u sitting on a washing machine during the spin cycle today??? You seemed to be vibrating up and down a lot😅
Prob got a foot tap going...
Thomas Newman!!! Yes, I have been a fan for about 5 years, maybe a few more. I've never heard anyone else mention his (brilliant) work. I am going to have to check out your video!
I'm back- I just took a peek at your video (Part 1 on Newman) and I only understand a bit of what you're saying (I need to study some music theory). I'd never heard of "Linean" before, for example. So, now I will take some lessons, and come back to it when I can understand it. I thought it was cool that you explained then easily started hitting the keys to demonstrate.
Back yet again (sorry for the long post): Got the Book 4 bundle. Now I need to study!
I loved the Shawshank film score video.
I still buy and download mp3s. I'll never switch to streaming. Don't wanna depend on bandwidth and their libraries are limited, and also dependant on contracts.
I watched your Shawshank Redemption video front start to end. It was fantastic. How could anyone that's watching your channel not know, or love, Shawshank Redemption. One of the greatest movies ever.
I still have all my vinyls from 70's and 80's and I still play them
I am watching this stuff because I am trying to understand what happened to the music! 100 songs every year and now it is next to none. What happened! Rick is trying to figure this out and so am I. God bless everyone!
live steam with foot tapping at 100bpm... ;)
And the good part of the community is a bedroom guitar player on the other side of the world can share in the community and feel welcome, learn and sometimes even have a laugh. I love it when you have Dave on he is a walking guitar encyclopedia, that guy has forgotten more about guitars than most of us will ever know. I really enjoyed you going through your guitars with him, "oh by the way i changed the pick ups on your guitar" " I didnt really like the sound of them so I put better ones in" I'm roflmao and so were you guys , great moment .Also just when you have people on for informal chats about whatever, they are good too. Cheers from Down Under.
Rick, did you ever realize how much you slightly bounce up and down while you are talking - LOL, guess your enthusiasm to communicate is almost like an internal motor for you.
He is probably moving his legs up and down while sitting in his chair. I do the same thing and it drives the wife crazy.
He likes the c-c-c-cocaine jk
Yep - thought i was the only one that noticed
@@fredflintstone1428 Yeah! Lol!
@@vinylsurfer2155 As well it should drive her crazy! It is so obnoxious!
Back in the early 90s, I worked in college radio, when major labels bought up a lot of distribution for smaller labels, and then started charging radio stations for the privilege of receiving new albums. I love album oriented radio as a format, and I appreciate the work that labels do... I also love self-publishing, but it's still an awful business model. Hopefully the pressure from channels like youtube pressures record labels to be better and work smarter. I still get most of my new music recommendations from CBC, the Canadian public radio.
What you're saying didn't work for me. I made my own website, put my music on multiple streaming music sites and it never got big and no one came to see us play. You need the push of someone who is good at it and has connections.
I still get and play CD's... It used to be albums where you could look at the cover, maybe open the gatefold, read the lyrics and liner notes, look at the pictures and enjoy the music while doing all of that. With CD's, it's just downsized a bit...
Great channel Rick, watch a lot...
It's less about record labels per se and more about the hard-to-pinpoint "gatekeepers". The idea is that you have a better chance with the latter if you can get in with the former, but that may not be the case anymore. The gatekeepers get you on the major Spotify playlists and on the radio.
i play drums and guitar regularly in detroit ,personally i think people are sick of the digital platforms and want to go back to having hard copies of great music so they are going back to cds and records and tapes . nothing new seems to have any real substance and everyone seems to be a copy it all blends together .
I dunno Rick the labels still seem to be controling the really popular artist. I think I've done pretty well as an artist with no money but the record label artist seem to build a lot faster than I can. I've gotten some shoutouts from you tubers , added to Spotify editor playlists but it's a very slow grind. I think a label could probably blow my self promotion away. However I've recorded and produced everything myself and I don't wanna give away any rights.
Same here. It grows but is a slow grind.
It's true that you can do your own marketing and get yourself pushed out on playlists and social in a big way, but it's incredibly difficult (unless you happen to just get lucky). Learning all that stuff is very complex. When I was doing that stuff for my band I spent probably more time learning and implementing it all as I did actually doing music for the band. Most musicians wouldn't have the time or patience for it TBH. And paying someone really good at it to do it for you ludicrously expensive.
I miss Atlantic records! What a label that was.
The old island records too
Prestige, blue note, Motown, staxx, ... Labels have part of the process. I love em.
What do you miss it for?
Ahmet Ertegun. That was back in the days when people started record companies because they loved music and knew something about it. The music was most important. In those days the labels had nurturing relationships with their artists.. Aretha, Led Zeppelin, Yes etc...They would invest in artists that they believed in and not expect to make any money until the second or third album. A lot of records today cost nothing to make. Billie Ellish's album was supposedly made on a laptop at a kitchen table . No investment or nurturing needed. Just rake in the money.
@@richardsampras4574 I don't know if you are familiar with Atlantic's history in music. Read a bit about it. And, whatever you read about it, for better or worse, that's what I miss.
Traditional publishing for books is in a similar situation. You can self publish easily, keep 100% control of your work, print on demand instead of printing a ton of books and having to store them, meet your own deadline, and promote yourself. You don't need the traditional publishing houses for anything.
Watch iTunes hip hop charts. Most of the time independent artists hold 2-3 top ten spots.
YT reactors are the new DJs.
Those independent artists are sending CDs through the mail.
Record labels can cancel artists, control the content and timing of recording.
And what they push these days, SMH.
Support independent artists- there is a TON of very talented folks out there.
@@BongoBaggins
Let the good times role.
ha! john lennon over there in the background staring at us while Rick make his video
Yeah, I can't imagine why a modern band would want to share profits with a record company. For the same reason authors self publish instead of going with a publisher.
In a way we are back to selfmade musicians like before records existed. A Label was necessary because they had the money to record promote produce and distribute. But on the other hand because of the restricted shelf space in record stores had to push less musicians to more listeners. Creating the superstar out of that restriction.
Basically back to when you would get out in the street and play for a little bit and get a crowd going, except now its all online.
The Tik Tok to streaming revenue model is grossly inadequate for promotion and sales generation for the majority of artists.
Total disconnect with artistry and performance. If a video doesn’t have a comedic hook, most won’t even follow your channel. This makes most acts nothing more then poodles jumping through flaming hoops for three-tenths of a penny at a time.
Disgusting. Over abundance has killed the value of music.
Time to get back to scarcity.
Take a deep dive into NFTs and you’ll see why the major music industry is toast.
AMEN!!
No tour.....yet. Check out the smile as he says that..it doesn't take a mental heavy weight to know its just a matter of time simply because its so obvious Rick has such a loyal following, as he should, and we can't wait to see him live playing with his pals.Its been a joy watching his channel and his popularity grow especially because its so well deserved
Pretty sure the warden in Shawshank whistles "Ein Feste Burg" at one point-"A Mighty Fortress" (is our god), a good old Lutheran chorale :-) Talk about an inside joke.
Who is worse the record company for absorbing a song writers pay check giving most of your cut to streaming services or Spotify for exploiting the need of a song writer for exposure. I don’t understand how it works but there will be exploited or lost talent until creative rights are fundamentally improved for the legit talent.