Owning your masters is crucial for maintaining control over your music and maximizing your revenue. As an independent artist, this control allows you to retain the rights to your recordings and make the most of your hard work. Here’s a straightforward guide on how to own your masters.
1. Understand What Masters Are
Masters are the original recordings of your music. They are the source from which all copies are made. Owning your masters means you have control over how your music is used, distributed, and monetized.
Why owning masters matters:
- Control: You decide how and where your music is used.
- Revenue: You keep more of the profits from sales and streams.
- Longevity: You maintain rights to your work indefinitely.
2. Record Music Independently
To own your masters, you need to record your music independently. This means avoiding contracts with labels that claim ownership of your recordings. Use your own studio or partner with studios that don’t require you to sign away your rights.
Recording tips:
- Home studios: Set up a home studio for cost-effective recording.
- Freelance studios: Work with studios that offer flexible agreements.
- Collaborate: Partner with producers who understand your ownership goals.
3. Sign a Fair Recording Contract
If you work with a producer or label, ensure the contract does not transfer ownership of your masters. Look for agreements that allow you to retain rights to your recordings. Review contracts carefully and seek legal advice if needed.
Contract considerations:
- Ownership clauses: Check for terms related to master recordings.
- Rights retention: Ensure you keep control over your music.
- Legal advice: Consult a lawyer to review any agreements.
4. Distribute Music Yourself
Distribute your music through platforms that allow you to maintain ownership of your masters. Digital distribution services such as DistroKid, TuneCore, or CD Baby can help you get your music on streaming platforms while keeping control of your recordings.
Distribution platforms:
- DistroKid: Offers fast distribution and keeps you in control.
- TuneCore: Provides a comprehensive distribution service.
- CD Baby: Helps with digital and physical distribution.
5. Register Your Music Properly
Ensure your music is properly registered with performance rights organizations (PROs) and copyright offices. This registration helps protect your work and ensures you receive royalties and payments for its use.
Registration steps:
- PROs: Join organizations like ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC.
- Copyright: File for copyright with your national copyright office.
- Royalties: Monitor and collect your royalties from various sources.
6. Monitor and Manage Your Music Rights
Regularly monitor how your music is used and manage your rights to avoid unauthorized use. Tools and services are available to track your music’s performance and ensure you are compensated appropriately.
Management tools:
- Digital dashboards: Use platforms to track streams and sales.
- Royalty collection services: Employ services that help manage and collect royalties.
- Music monitoring: Keep an eye on how your music is being used online.
7. Promote Your Music Independently
Promote your music on your own terms. Use social media, email marketing, and live performances to build your audience and generate revenue. Independent promotion helps you retain control over your music and brand.
Promotion strategies:
- Social media: Engage with fans and share updates.
- Email newsletters: Keep your audience informed about new releases.
- Live shows: Perform live to connect with fans and sell merchandise.
Conclusion
Owning your masters as an independent artist is essential for controlling your music and maximizing your profits. By recording independently, signing fair contracts, distributing your music yourself, registering your work, and managing your rights effectively, you can maintain ownership of your recordings. With these steps, you’ll have full control over your music career and its success.
