How to get signed to a record label in 2025?

Thinking like a label to get signed

The business model of a Record Label

To be clear, a record label is a business no matter the deal structure they use. We have to make ends meet. This doesn’t mean there is something unethical going on. Companies need money to reach their vision long term. For an artist this means a couple of things:

• There are limited resources which a lot of artists compete about
• The label has to earn back what’s being invested meaning if you are an artist in your early career you can’t expect to get everything served for you
• It’s like a service you pay for by a combination of royalties, your own time, your own budget and your already-built fanbase.

Some deal structures means that the business is making money On the artist. There is a stigma in the industry that if a business earns money from the artist before the artist earns money from fans, something unethical is happening. Is it though? Read this article to find out.

TLDR; There’s nothing inherently unethical about earning money by providing value to someone pursuing a goal. The key is which intentions they have, if adding real value, transparent and aligned incentives. 

Step into the shoes of a record label

Labels get tonnes of demos submitted to them each day. We at Rexius Records receive around 30 demos per day, every single day, all year round. Sometimes up to 50 demos, and we are not even a major label. This means that it’s hard to keep up with the demo inbox and we have a system in place to take care of all the demos.

We’ve seen some advice to track down email addresses through Hunter, LinkedIn, etc. It might work on some A&Rs that prefer email but for us when an artist sends an email outside our system will just result in a deleted email. Everyone is different, so always follow the guidelines of the specific record label!

Hits vs long tail

Some record labels are looking for “hits” but some use a “long tail” strategy. We are currently using both; however, the strategies differ.’

When looking for “hits”, you invest a lot into a more or less established artist trying to make a hit and then recoup everything. The artist’s already built-in value (fan base) sets the budget.

The “long tail” strategy is more about signing a lot of upcoming artists with less already built-up value and having systems in place to reach out in a cost-efficient way. Here we look at niche artists in obscure genres to find gems.

The groundwork of setting yourself apart, before getting signed to a record label

Goal: Be the kind of artist a record label wants to sign

As an independent label, we are looking for independent artists. The best signings are often those artists who could make it on their own. We are looking for hard-working artists who would continue their careers on their own path, even though they didn’t end up with a deal with us. You will come a long way just by doing hard work every day, taking small steps.

Record music the best you can

You don’t need a record label to produce great music. To send a demo, you don’t need the perfect recording, we are listening for potential. However, the skill of writing an awesome song is really important.

We talk about the importance of getting the right feedback in order to create as great music as possible in this article.

If you are about to mix and master your songs, make sure you go to the best you can afford, but first, make sure to record them professionally. Even the greatest mixer can’t do anything with a half-done production. It’s better to skip the mix/master part if you don’t know any great mixers. If the record company is interested, they can connect you with a proper one, and you haven’t spent money unnecessarily.

1. The most important thing to focus on

The most important thing to focus on, which will make everything else much simpler, is to CREATE AWESOME MUSIC. If you have that, the rest will come naturally. In fact, if your music is just “good” that means it is not good enough. There are endless of “good” songs out there but in order to reach out and recommended to new listeners, your music needs to be great, or even really great + unique.

Then people will actually listen to your music more than once and there are algorithms on Spotify that will work for you, fans that will listen to your music again and again generating revenue, and labels that can see the potential to polish the rest of the stuff.

2. Get your Brand together

Oftentimes the record label can help you with branding and visuals but in order to attract a label, you have to understand why you are unique, who is interested in your brand and how to reach out to the right audience.

3. Build a fan base

There are so many different ways in order to build a fanbase and get listeners. This would be a whole chapter on its own so we will just drop some keywords and refer you to some resources in order to get you going

• Link to the Ultimate Social Media Guide for Artists
• Get listeners: Submit Music to Spotify Playlist

4. Do the work DIY until the label comes to you

We mentioned earlier the two strategies of a record label, “hits” and “long tail” and since most labels are working with the “hit” strategy, it becomes more and more important to get to a certain level and fan base on your own. That means distributing and releasing music on your own, getting listeners and fans until you attract record labels that will come to you and show their interest. In that case, you are in a much better position when negotiating a record deal.

5. Avoid these things at all costs:

Don’t fall into the trap of buying fans on any social media or music platform. A record label can easily see through this and it will also hurt your career. You don’t need to worry about having too few followers if your music is great, and if your music isn’t great, no one will be interested anyway.

Don’t use payola in order to get into playlists or bots in order to generate streams. If you have used any of these methods, please be honest with the label. Similar to buying followers and artificial streams these tactics will only harm you. We will go into more detail in another article.

How to submit Music to Record Labels

Most labels use a mix of scouting externally and internally (the demo inbox).

Where do labels look for music?

Depending on the genre, label, and size the label will look in different places. The larger the label the larger the outlet. Focus on what you can control and release your music following the strategies advised in “Building a fanbase”.

A great tool to submit your music both to blogs and record labels is SubmitHub. Here you can pay a small fee for each blog/label in order to get an A&R to listen to your music and give feedback. This may be the conversation opener you need.

There are less obvious ways that some labels find music. Major Labels sometimes own a distributor, Universal / Spinnup, they sometimes team up with distributors that more or less work as A&Rs for them. Not sure they still do but Record Union used to be a springboard to Sony Music labels. Then there’s Amuse, which is a distributor platform and label at the same time. These are just examples of the variety of how a record label finds music.

Some record labels are using Viberate or Chartmetric to track artists’ progress and see breakthroughs in streaming and social media engagement.

Many Record Labels have a Demo Inbox to get music straight to their own systems, this might be your best shot to actively work to get the attention of record labels.

How to submit to the demo inbox:

Since all labels are different, the only great advice we can give you is to follow the guidelines. One label might prefer you to send them an MP3 to their email inbox and another (we for example) would delete it immediately.

How do Rexius Records find new artists?

We are using a mix of algorithmically scouting via Spotify API, collaboration through music producers, artists referring other artists, reading blogs, and listening to Spotify Playlists. And of course our Demo Submission.

There are tools such as Chartmetric that will discover trends of artists increasing followers rapidly

Some things to avoid:

• Avoid sampling copyrighted material that you don’t have a license to use
• Make sure the links to your music work (no broken links!), make sure the links will also be available in 6 months, not just now since you don’t know when the label will listen.
• Don’t send more than one song. The label won’t listen to more. Send the one you are most proud of.
• Don’t break the label’s submission guidelines.
• Don’t send mass emails

FAQ on getting signed by a label

Why have a label?

A Record Label might not be the ultimate goal to achieve in an artist’s career that many seem to believe. It might be useful to see its purpose for what it is rather than putting a halo around the term.

With that in mind, being under a label, independent or not, can help you boost your music career. Finding structure and working in a team – Producers, A&Rs, Art Directors, Promoters, and Managers – is crucial. It’s hard to do everything on your own. The music industry is, more than ever, a unique artistic enterprise. A Record Label is a hub of different skills and brings together many types of virtuosos whether it’s legal, economic, or promotion.

How hard is it to get signed to a label?

Very hard to answer. You also don’t just want to be signed you would also like to have a good deal. It really depends on two factors:

1. How far you have come in the music industry
2. What kind of deal are you going to get?

If you are an artist making unique and great music, streaming 1 million streams per month. It won’t be hard and won’t take long until you get a decent record deal. However, if you just started out, you might lower your expectations on what kind of deal you will be offered, if any.

How long does it take to get signed?

It depends. But generally, when you have reached the stage where you are in talks with a label, things can move quite quickly. Usually, for us, from the moment we show an interest in an artist until a signing takes place, it takes around 1 – 2 months. There’s a process to go through, and it has to feel good for both parties. Sometimes new demos need to be reviewed and so on.

With that said, just because we show interest doesn’t mean an artist will always sign our offer. We work in a way we believe in, and that is just not for everybody.

So again, if you just started out, don’t expect to get signed immediately. Go out and start releasing music and build yourself up.

What happens when you get signed?

This of course, varies from label to label. Based on what we are doing and the labels we have worked with during the years, this is a rough blueprint. Have in mind this also depends of the kind of deal you are doing:

• Start-up and planning phase
• An artist development / Branding Phase
• A production phase where music, and visuals will be set and finished according to your brand
• A promotion phase – where artist and label actively promote the release.
• Evaluation phase – how should we improve in the next release, and should we continue working together?
• A catalog phase – where your songs are in the catalog of the label, but not actively worked with anymore, but are open to general opportunities.

Then everything is reiterated depending on the deal, how many releases you are supposed to be doing, and how well everything is going. After a while, when the contract term is near its end, there may be negotiations about a new deal based on where you are in your career at that moment.

What can you expect from a record label?

• Hopefully, a record label will help you speed up your career and reach your goals faster. Maybe not in terms of – less days to the release date – but rather to avoid the traps that exists in the music business and working in the right direction.
• Counterintuitively it will probably slow down the production process. Suddenly, it’s not just you or your band members anymore to decide everything. There’s a team to have in the loop and you’ll get feedback. This slow things down, but trust the process. The end result will probably be better and you are moving in the right direction.
• Miscommunications. Since not all artists are used to working in a team there will always be miscommunications. Stuff like, why does the art director have to say anything about the old photos on my Spotify profile? Why can’t we set the release date for tomorrow? Why does the A&R give feedback on the mix when I am happy with the result already?
• No instant path to success. Since there is some kind of glorious halo effect surrounding a record label, it can be really hard to manage expectations towards artists. Not even the major labels can promise a wide success. Actually, the “hit-making” strategy of labels is almost built-in with a 9/10 failure rate (monetary). The idea is that one success will cover all the failures. So get your expectations handled. Work for the goal you want to achieve but don’t expect the label can do much more than provide you with:
• Get a community, expertise, resources, and strategies that you might not be able to utilize on your own. The real advantage a Record Label has over the DIY artist is that it is an aggregator of other artists and releases. This means that they can promote a whole catalog at the same time, they can build playlists that will benefit all artists within the label, and so on.
• Work harder when signed than before. Some artists think that once they get signed the label will take care of everything. This is a bad strategy. The label needs and expects you to work harder than before.

How to find record labels?

It is really important to not just find a label but find the right label. For some artists, the perfect label is the major label with everything that comes with that. For others, an indie label is a better option with more freedom, and for someone else, a PR Company would be the best way forward.

There are many ways to find record labels:

• We’ve made a big list of over 500 Record Labels around the world.
• Google record label database
• Google Submit Demo to record labels
• Look at the copyright line of your favorite artists (on Spotify for example) and see where they are signed.
• SubmitHub

Region specifics:

Then you might want to do some filtering based on the region. Do you want a label working internationally or locally in the USA, UK, or Nigeria? Or maybe a record label near you.

Artist Type specifics:

Some labels are focused on artists, singers, and rappers, while others only work with producers. If you are a songwriter, you might want to look at publishers instead of record labels to help you forward in your career.

Then you want to do your research:

• What kind of artists are signed to the label
• What values do they seem to have?
• What people are working at the label?
• What resources do they seem to have?
• Which business model do they utilize?
• Submission preference (email/submission form)
• What submission guidelines do they have? (and what things do you need to prepare to fulfill the guidelines?)

Make a list of the labels you are most interested in.

Exactly how you should present yourself to a Record Label – The Pitch

As always by now you should have a list of your favorite labels and their guidelines. Write down all the things you need to prepare in order to send your pitch. It’s better to prepare everything in advance so you can focus on pitching when pitching. This could be:

• Music files in certain formats and/or uploaded to specific streaming platforms
• Visuals such as press photos, artwork, etc
• Artist Bio
• Short pitch
• Social media links

When you have gathered all the things you need, it’s not hard to do the actual work of pitching.

It’s very likely this approach of sending demos either will take a lot of time before you get an answer or that nothing will happen at all.

Therefore, you are lucky we are in the digital era of the music industry:

A new way to promote your music

Back in the days (before Napster, The Pirate Bay, and Spotify) the labels had a similar role as of today but did very different things. You had expensive studios, production teams, physical production, lead times, storage, physical distribution, etc. This was costly, and as an artist, this was nearly impossible to do yourself. You had to send a demo and play live to get the attention from a record label in order to reach out at all.

Since it will take time, or nothing will happen after you have submitted your music, you should go on directly and release music on your own and utilize the new digital era.

Don’t waste your time waiting on labels!

Self-releasing and label pitching go hand in hand. Even though it should take 6 months and perhaps the label would like to meet, then it doesn’t matter if you have released the music or not. At least not for us. If we want to do an extra push for the already released music there are ways to handle that. Or we will just focus on the music you are creating right now because you probably won’t stop doing music right?

Want to start distributing music? Here is a discount to one of the distributors we use and is suitable for most unsigned artists: DistroKid

Building Real Relationships with Labels (Without Feeling Gross About It)

Let’s be honest: No one likes the idea of begging to be signed. And honestly, most labels don’t enjoy being approached like vending machines either. But building real relationships? That’s how most artists actually break through.

We’re just people — tired, caffeinated, sometimes distracted people — but we genuinely care about music and artists. So here are a few unexpected or underused ways you might end up on our radar:

You’ll notice a pattern: Most of these approaches are about being visible, useful, or connected — not just asking for a deal.

1. 📞 Call the label

Yes, an old-school cold call can still work — especially if it’s respectful, brief, and you’re calling with a purpose (e.g., asking about internships or studio sessions, not pitching your mixtape).

2. 🧑‍💼 Get an internship at the label

You’d be surprised how many artists or managers started as interns. You’ll learn the ropes, meet people organically, and possibly end up collaborating later.

3. 🎚 Work with producers tied to the label

A lot of labels have unofficial “circles” of trusted collaborators. If you work with producers who are already working with the label, you’ll often end up in our conversations without even trying.

4. 🎙 Book studio time with our people

Some labels run studios or partner with producers. Book a session, show up prepared, and impress with your work ethic, not your pitch. You’re already halfway in just by being in the room.

5. 🎤 Play live — and in the right places

Touring or performing in the area of the label is underrated. Especially if you share a bill with one of the label’s artists. That shows overlap in your network and genre fit.

6. 👯‍♀️ Get to know other signed artists

Genuine friendships or collaborations with our current roster often carry more weight than a cold submission. Artists talk. If one of our own says “you should check them out,” we will.

7. 📲 Curate a killer playlist on Spotify

Make a playlist from your artist profile featuring tracks from the label’s roster. Optimize it with a great title, keywords, and cover art. If it starts streaming well, we might notice it in Spotify for Artists — yes, we see that too.

8. 🤝 Release something with a label artist

Offer to do a topline for a signed producer. Reach out for a feature, or do a cover of one of their songs (if you’re doing it legally). Cross-pollinating fanbases is a smart way to earn attention and respect.

9. 🎙 Interview or feature someone from the label

Start a podcast, YouTube channel, or blog about the industry. Invite an A&R, marketing manager, or label artist for a short interview. Most of us say yes if the vibe’s right — and we remember people who shine a spotlight.

10. 🧠 Offer something valuable — without asking for anything

If you’re a designer, video editor, playlist nerd, or even a great writer — offer help. No strings. Being part of the ecosystem builds trust, which beats pitches every time.

You’re Not Just Pitching, You’re Connecting

The truth is, labels don’t just sign talent. We sign relationships.
We’re looking for people who are already building momentum, showing up consistently, and treating their career like something real — not something they’re waiting for permission to start.

So no, don’t ask us how to send a demo.

Ask yourself instead:
“What can I create, contribute, or connect — that gets me into the room without knocking on the front door?”

Does the genre matter when getting signed?

The approaches we have written about here should work generally and there might be some nuances and characteristics for certain types of genres. For example, some labels within the metal genre still require you to send a physical demo. Labels focusing on Christmas songs might have certain deadlines to keep in mind.

Also, generally speaking, mainstream genres such as pop, EDM, hip hop/rap, R&B, and country might be more focused on the “hit” strategy. Niche genres such as indie-folk, metalcore, and so on, might focus on “the long tail”.  The more popular a genre is, usually the harder the competition, but there might be higher budgets involved for the few that get the chance. So this might shift your expectations in different ways

However, following the submission guidelines will help you manage this.

What kind of record deals exists? Artist and Licensing Contracts

There are of course different ways to be signed. Here’s some information on what kind of record deals there is.

• Traditional Major Label Deals
• Independent Label Deal
• 360-deal
• Distribution Deal
• Licensing Deal
• Profit-sharing / Joint-Venture Deal
• Label Services Deal
• NFT-Based / Web3 Contracts

When you are about to go into negotiations with a record label, we have made an article about how to negotiate a record deal and what you should think about before signing a record contract.

Case Studies: Real Artists, Real Deals: How Musicians Actually Got Signed

While industry advice is valuable, firsthand accounts from artists who’ve navigated the signing process offer unique insights. Here’s a compilation of real stories shared by musicians, detailing how they secured record deals and the lessons they learned. 

1. The Major Label Experience: A Double-Edged Sword

One artist shared their journey of signing a significant deal with Warner Brothers at 17. Initially, the experience was exhilarating, but over time, they realized the constraints of such agreements. They eventually chose to pursue an independent path, highlighting the importance of understanding contract terms and maintaining creative control. ​

2. The Indie Label Route: Building from the Ground Up

Another musician recounted their time with an indie label that had a major distribution deal. They emphasized the benefits of grassroots promotion and the value of building a dedicated fanbase before seeking label support. Their experience underscores the significance of aligning with a label that shares your vision and supports your growth. ​

3. Navigating the EDM Scene: Strategic Collaborations

In the EDM community, one producer discussed how strategic collaborations and consistent releases led to label interest. They highlighted the importance of networking, attending industry events, and leveraging online platforms to showcase their work. Their story illustrates that persistence and visibility can attract the right opportunities. ​Reddit

4. The Reality of Being Shelved: A Cautionary Tale

A cautionary account came from an artist who, after signing with a major label, found their album shelved indefinitely. Despite completing the recording process, the label chose not to release the project. This experience serves as a reminder of the uncertainties within the industry and the importance of having contingency plans. ​Reddit

5. From College Project to Label Deal

Lucy Dacus recorded her debut album as a college project, which unexpectedly garnered attention from multiple labels. After careful consideration, she signed with Matador Records, emphasizing the importance of aligning with a label that supports her artistic vision. ​Pitchfork

6. Viral Moment Leading to Major Label Signing

Maggie Rogers experienced a breakthrough when a video of Pharrell Williams reacting to her song went viral. This exposure led to a major label deal, highlighting how unexpected moments can propel an artist’s career. ​GQ

7. Building Online Buzz Before Signing

The Arctic Monkeys built a substantial online following before signing with Domino Records. Their story demonstrates the power of the internet in creating opportunities and attracting label interest. ​WIRED

8. Choosing the Right Label for Artistic Freedom

Artists like Adele and Radiohead chose to work with XL Recordings due to the label’s reputation for supporting artistic freedom and integrity. This underscores the importance of finding a label that aligns with an artist’s values and creative goals. ​The New Yorker

For more in-depth discussions and personal stories, explore the following Reddit threads:​

• Who here has been signed to a label before?

• Any musicians signed to a record label in here? What has your experience been?

• I signed a record deal 3 months ago, here’s how it’s going

• Those who are signed to a label, how did it happen?

  
  

If you’ve read so far

If you read the whole article so far, you are very much the kind of artist we want to sign. Driven, curious and ambitious.

If you are interested, we would like to give you access to our Priority Submission via https://artists.rexiusrecords.com/unsigned

Use the password “nextlevel”, go through how we work, what we can do for you, and then fill out the Priority Submission form so we can understand your needs.

Good luck!