BBC - Radio 2 Sold on Song - Songwriting Guides

Who's who?

The record company comprises the people who will pay for you to make a record for them - they will then market the album and/or single and will help you to develop your career. You will probably be with a company for at least three years or three albums depending on which comes first, and maybe a lot longer if you all get on well and make tonnes of money.

Your first introduction to a record company is usually in the form of an A&R scout. A&R stands for Artist & Representation and is an expression from the early days of the music business. However, there is less representation these days as musicians usually have managers to represent them.

If the idea of talking to lawyers bores you, learn to find it interesting.

The A&R scout will be going to gigs, finding out about new talent and taking back latest news about the new kid on the block to the record company and A&R executives. The A&R execs get involved when someone really interesting comes along and they are thinking about signing them.

If the A&R scout thinks you are worth signing then they will have to consult higher management, including the MD or regional boss who will okay the deal they are prepared to offer.

This is when you will hear from a record company's lawyers and accountants. There is probably not one area of business that does not involve a lawyer and an accountant so, if the idea of talking to lawyers and accountants bores you, learn to find it interesting. They are very important and you need to know when you are being given a good deal - or not.


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