Independent Label Music Production in the US

Ahoy, me hearties!

It's not just sailors that need fear pirates. Commercial CD piracy is an ongoing problem in this industry. Anti-piracy campaigns launched by the RIAA may help reduce the impact over the longer term, but the problem may never be entirely eradicated. Meanwhile, another prickly issue is presented by the popularity of online music providers based in countries like Russia, India and China.

This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in record production (e.g., tapes, CDs). These establishments contract with artists and arrange and finance the production of original master recordings. Establishments in this industry hold the copyright to the master recording and derive most of their revenue from the sales, leasing, and licensing of the master recordings. They do not have their own duplication or distribution capabilities. This report covers the scope, size, disposition and growth of the industry including the key sensitivities and success factors. Also included are five year industry forecasts, growth rates and an analysis of the industry key players and their market shares.