SERVICESAlthough we are just starting out, we have over 40 years experience of the music business (not only as musicians in bands ourselves but also as self promoters and organisers) We have identified the need for someone to help new bands in this area get a leg-up and a decent start.
This includes some very professional visual input, webdesign, marketing and importantly studio production. The whole package for getting a product out there (as bar-coded, shrink wrapped cds, available through local stores as well as through mail order from major websites, as well as digital delivery through iTunes, Napster, and a host of others)
From (often bitterly learned) experience we are aware of what it takes to get your music into high street shops and on radio.
As for contacts, at this stage we are building up industry leads and make no promises about leverage with national exposure. Our remit, initially is to get a legitimate product available. Major labels are looking for bands that present themselves as a business viability. Our aim is to provide "accessibility" and "legitimacy" for a bands music.
We do not operate on an "investment capital" level. Rather than offer an 'advance on earnings' payment (as is the norm with the multiples) we charge for services as a pay as you go basis, as many new bands have little budget. When you get an advance on royalties from a major, it is based on predicted sales and if it doesn't work out, bands have often been left in debt to the tune of thousands and a contract for three further albums!.
Success rarely happens overnight, but a foot in the right direction is a good start.
So, you want to sign for a 'major label'?
Well before you rush to sell your entire songbook to the first big label that gets their cheque book out, take a moment to hear Motorhead frontman, Lemmy's opinion.
Motorhead were dropped by one of the global major labels, following months of indifference, lack of funding and deliberate attempts to sabotage the release of a new album. The label appeared to be using the band as tax write off. Lemmy finally asked them "Why didn't you tell us the truth?" The response was literally "That's not the way this business works"
Lemmy continues: "Can you imagine somebody saying that! How could you be so dishonourable? But after almost thirty years in the music business, I should have figured it out. These people treat music purely as a commodity, like selling cans of beans. Most of the people that promote bands have not even heard of the bands they promote. The industry's building all the time, but they're killing the music."
We're different. We're musicians. Our passion for the music (both ours and yours!) is our primary concern. Getting it done right and out there is what we care about most.
In the past, signing with a major record label was one of the only options available for a new artist. The introduction of new technology has changed the way in which the music industry operates, and has played an integral role in the tremendous success of the Indie industry.
But with all retail chains and online stores, such as CDNow or Amazon.com, using bar codes, unless you want to sell your CD’s from the boot of your car or from the back of your own studio garage, you really have no choice – you need a unique bar code. This bar code is a 12 or 13 digit number called a Universal Product Code Number. We can sort that for you.
We are PPL and CATCO registered, which means that all the royalties from broadcasting your music is recovered, and all sales are logged by the UK charts network.
Koosh Records has a dedicated private recording studio facility with the ability to record solo acoustic artists, or provide overdubs of instrumentals etc. However, we also have access to many full service studios if you need a full band environment (please contact us for prices)
For single or solo recordings, the rate is £10 per hour, with a minimum of 2 hours allowed per track. This will include multiple takes and mastering with a CD to take away. If you need additional input we would charge an additional £6 per hour for creative input and creation of simple midi drums or synth etc. Sometimes even a basic song can be enhanced with the addition of extra instrumentation. Our production values are very high and you will get so much more than just a "snapshot" of how you sound. We pride ourselves on our "sound". Often described as "widescreen" our trademark is an "expansive" and textured or layered experience.
We will ensure you get affordable mastering services for your music. The way our mastering service works is that you send in your existing CDR or CD along with another CD that you like the sound of or think is compatible with your music (and/or any comments you might have), along with £35.00 (processing & shipping) and we will master it and return you a proof CD. If you like it, pay the bill and we will send you two copies of the master. If you don't like it then don 't pay the bill. The most you will lose is £35.00.
The basic mastering includes processes like EQ, compression, limiting, loudness, enhancing, etc. The KOOSH promotional mastering rates are only £25.00 per song. And £20 per song for a full album (10 or more songs).
Koosh, can transform your image beyond simple expression and into a world of interactivity with expert services that include:
- Web Design
- Video filming and production
- Graphic Design, CD sleeves
- Multi-Media Presentations
- CD Production
- Printing, backdrops, stage design
- Distribution, retail and digital promotion
- Logo Design
There is no project too big or too small. Sell your CD's online, have new t-shirts printed, show off your music with a new website, include an interactive presentation on your next CD, and MUCH more! Regardless of what you need, Koosh can offer you professional work with a personal touch for an affordable price.
Get Heard. Get Seen. Get Found. Koosh Records can help you.
Here are some very useful info packs from the nice people at Tunecore. Essential reading.
Volume 1.0, How To Market, Promote and Make Money from Your Music While Keeping Your Rights.Volume 1.1, Music Publishing and Copyright: Cover Songs.
Volume 1.2, Mastering.
Volume 1.3, Vinyl 101.
Volume 1.4, Mixing.
Volume 1.5, Copyright.
Volume 1.6, Tips to Sell More Music Online.
To take your first steps towards finding distribution the first thing you must determine is what stage you are at as an artist. Based on where you're at right now determines realistically what kind of distribution you can achieve for your music. Let us help you plan a strategy based on your goals. Maybe you just need a demo to send out for gigs, maybe you want your music available for your fans to buy, perhaps you'd like to see your CDs available in high street stores. Anything is achievable, and we can help you sort it.
Contact us today to see how we can help you realise your dreams.
