Where do you see Independent Record Labels heading in the future?

Do you see more Independent labels looking to involve themselves in an artist’s merchandise, branding or sponsorship deals to cover the declining costs of CD and digital music sales?

I have no idea where other Independent record labels are headed in future. Perhaps I can give you an idea of where I may take Iron Man Records if anything goes to plan. Which often, it doesn’t. But the quote “When all music is digital, all independence ceases” continues to permeate my thoughts.

I want to keep the record label focused on releasing records, digitally and also on Vinyl. I want to leave the artists to work on writing, rehearsing, touring and recording. I’m not interested in getting more involved with the artists beyond releasing their music. I don’t like the idea of taking more control or involvement in what they do, that’s down to them. I think most artists have enough to deal with already, they should seek out their own solutions to their own situations, away from the record label. I want Iron Man Records to be able to do the same.

Despite declining physical and digital revenue, I like the idea of the record label finding additional sources of income, away from the…