Here's the story...
80/20 Records started out as a simple idea; ‘What if we give 80% royalties to all of our artists?’ Some labeled this as absurd, but in a world where music is produced, promoted, and distributed in the digital realm we feel this is a natural progression to the music business.
Before starting the label, co-founders Mike Zimmerlich and Zach Nation created a music social networking site to support independent musicians. Witnessing the dramatic changes occurring in the music industry they decided to take a different approach, to create their own label.
Throwing out the record label textbook, they developed ways to promote and distribute music for artists that use the latest trends in technology. In the meantime establishing philosophies and morals that they believe in to make sure that the label's best interest is with the artists.
Re-inventing the label
So what sets us apart from other labels? Well for starters, no other label gives 80% royalties to artists. In fact, most don't even come close to that. While other labels are still trying to figure out how to use MySpace to their advantage, we are looking ahead to the next big music site. As new websites and distribution methods come out, we'll be figuring out how this will help artists gain more exposure.
Our mission is to be a record company that offers the best of both worlds; the ability to give artists the advice and experience they need as well as lifting the burden of business off their shoulders, while giving them the royalties and independence they deserve.
FAQ
What does 80/20 do exactly?
80/20 Records helps artists with the business related-aspects of their endeavors. Primarily we assist with promotion and distribution for artists, such as submitting to iTunes and negotiating with independent record stores. We also develop and implement marketing campaigns (both via Internet and traditional means), determine what physical items to sell and at what prices, and contact publishers, radio stations, venues, promoters, and anything else to help with an artist’s promotion.
What services can you offer our band that will exceed what we’ve already been doing for ourselves?
As a label, we utilize our knowledge of the music industry and social media for promotion (such as developing campaigns for advertising and promotion) and obtain resources such as access to recording studios, radio stations, photographers, videographers, etc. for artists. We also offer additional assistance with the tasks that the artist is already doing in regards to promotion, we've been called the "extra member that works on the business side of the band". With our expertise in business and social media, we hope to generate the most profit for the band as we possibly can.
Do you prefer specific genre(s) or groups?
We are open to any genre of music and support both solo artists and groups.
Can you help us with shows or going on tour?
Generally that is the responsibility of a manager or booking agent. However if we find opportunities for our artists to perform at shows, festivals, or touring we do our best to assist them. We also host our own events throughout the year that showcases artists from 80/20 Records as well as local acts.
Once we sign with you, what are our band’s roles and responsibilities?
We don’t dictate any specific roles and responsibilities to any artist. However, we do regularly offer many suggestions to bands in many facets, such as promotion, marketing, distribution, touring and recording. The more that a band implements what we suggest, the more 80/20 Records can do to progress the artist. All of our suggestions are based upon what the label feels the artist needs to work on to become more successful.
How to join
We are currently accepting demo submissions, so if you're interested in joining please contact us. Preferably we would like you to provide recordings of your work as well as a link to your music such as facebook or Reverbnation.
