A Record Label Owner's Daily Life: Behind-The-Scenes Look at Running a Music Label
As a record label owner, my day typically starts at 7 AM, reviewing emails and messages from artists, distributors, and industry contacts while having my morning coffee. This early start is crucial as the music industry operates across multiple time zones.
By 9 AM, I'm in the office for our daily team meeting. We discuss ongoing projects, release schedules, and marketing campaigns. Our A&R team updates me on potential new signings, while the marketing department presents social media metrics and promotional strategies for upcoming releases.
The late morning usually involves financial management - reviewing royalty statements, approving budgets for music videos, and analyzing streaming performance across platforms. I also check in with our legal team about contract negotiations and copyright issues.
Lunch meetings are common in this industry. Today, I'm meeting with a promising artist and their manager to discuss a potential record deal. These meetings are crucial for building relationships and understanding an artist's vision and career goals.
The afternoon often involves production oversight. I visit our studio where one of our artists is recording their debut album. Quality control is essential - I listen to final mixes, provide feedback, and ensure everything meets our label's standards.
Around 3 PM, I handle partnership discussions with streaming platforms, radio stations, and brand collaborators. These relationships are vital for our artists' exposure and the label's growth.
Late afternoon is dedicated to problem-solving. Whether it's resolving scheduling conflicts, addressing promotional challenges, or managing artist concerns, quick decision-making is essential.
By 6 PM, I'm reviewing tomorrow's schedule and responding to time-sensitive emails. The music industry doesn't sleep - I often take calls from international partners well into the evening.
Key daily responsibilities include:
Talent scouting and artist development Financial management and budget allocation Marketing strategy oversight Legal and contract management Production quality control Relationship building with industry partners Crisis management and problem-solving Team leadership and motivation
The most challenging aspect is balancing creative integrity with commercial success. Every decision must serve both our artists' artistic vision and the label's business objectives.
Success in this role requires strong business acumen, deep industry knowledge, and excellent people management skills. Most importantly, it demands genuine passion for music and artist development.
My day typically ends around 8 PM, though I remain available for emergencies. In this industry, adaptability is key - no two days are exactly alike, but that's what makes running a record label so exciting.
Remember, while the business aspects are crucial, the core mission remains discovering and nurturing talented artists who can create impactful music that resonates with audiences worldwide.