Label services for planning and delivering a release
A release involves more than supplying an audio file. Timetables, metadata, formats, distribution, manufacturing and promotion all need to connect before the music reaches the listener.
Rupert can discuss label services with independent artists and labels that need direct help organising a release. The scope is agreed around the project rather than presented as an automated distribution package.
Direct support rather than a self-service upload
You deal directly with Rupert. There is no generic upload button that sends the release into a system without a conversation about what it needs.
The first step is to understand the music, rights position, release date, territories, formats, existing label or distributor relationships and the work you want Vigilante Studio to handle.
Some projects need a defined piece of support. Others need a broader plan and ongoing coordination.
Release planning
- Audio
- Artwork
- Metadata
- Credits
- Identifiers
- Manufacturing
- Distribution
- Promotional activity
- Release date
A useful release plan works backwards from the intended date. Audio, artwork, metadata, credits, identifiers, manufacturing, distribution and promotional activity each have their own deadlines.
Rupert can help identify the sequence of work and the points at which another supplier, distributor or specialist needs to be involved.
Digital and physical delivery
Label services can include coordination around digital distribution, physical formats and the files or information required for delivery.
Where a CD release is planned, the project may also require a DDP, manufacturing coordination and final track information. Confirm those requirements before mastering is completed.
Availability depends on the release and the delivery arrangements in place at the time. Rupert will confirm what can be supported before the work is accepted.
Metadata and release information
- Artist names
- Track titles
- Versions
- Contributors
- Credits
- Ownership
- Release dates
Artist names, track titles, versions, contributors, credits, ownership and release dates need to be consistent across the parties handling the release.
Incorrect or incomplete metadata can create delays that have nothing to do with the sound of the master. Preparing it early reduces last-minute decisions and makes the delivery route easier to check.
Music industry experience
Rupert is a BPI member and has wider experience in label management and PR and marketing as well as production, mixing and mastering.
The gold and silver discs displayed on the site relate to label management work. They support the wider music-industry background but are not described as engineering awards.
Label services do not replace independent legal or accounting advice. Contracts, licensing and tax questions should be taken to the appropriate professional where required.
Questions about label services
Do you offer an automatic distribution upload service?
No. Label services begin with a direct discussion about the release and the work required.
Can you help with both digital and physical releases?
Potentially. The scope can include digital delivery coordination, physical manufacturing requirements and release preparation, subject to the project and current arrangements.
Can label services be combined with mastering?
Yes. It is useful to discuss the release route before mastering is complete when Apple Digital Master delivery, DDP preparation or other specific deliverables are required.
Build the release plan around the music
Tell Rupert what is being released, who is responsible for each part and where the project currently stands.