The Factors in the Artist-Label Relationship That Influence Creative and Commercial Success: An Initial Exploration

Abstract

Since the dawn of the recorded music industry, the nature and quality of the relationship between record labels and the artists they sign has been of huge significance. These relationships set the foundation for the successful discovery and development of new artists, and directly influence the conditions for these artists to successfully build global careers and bring enduring music to the world. However, these relationships have also been a frequent point of contention and controversy, and many a career has been derailed, compromised (creatively or commercially) or cut short by a problematic relationship between label and artist. Some of the catalysts for relationship-breakdown, such as tensions around financial and contractual arrangements, are well-documented. But the specific nuances, dynamics, and patterns of interaction between label and artist that have a bearing on these outcomes are rarely discussed or explored in detail. This paper begins to explore the behaviors and dynamics that actively provide the basis for an enduring and successful relationship between artist and label. It reviews the literature that discusses the artist-label relationship, as well as pertinent literature from other fields that deals with the relationship between organization and creative practitioner. In doing so, it suggests a need for further research to bring greater clarity to this picture. By investigating the artist-label relationship in greater depth, and by examining the dynamics of the parties’ ongoing interaction, it may be possible to draw further conclusions on the specific processes, patterns, and behaviors, that may have a positive or negative influence on the duration, quality, and outcomes—both creative and commercial—of the relationship.