How to get a Record deal in 2025: a guide for independent artists

Landing a record deal is still a major milestone for many emerging musicians. While the industry has evolved—thanks to streaming, social media, and DIY platforms—record labels continue to play a key role in launching careers, funding production, and opening doors to large-scale exposure. But in 2025, getting signed isn’t just about talent—it’s about strategy, consistency, and building your brand.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to get a record deal in today’s music industry, and how you can stand out from the crowd.

1. Build a strong musical identity

Before a label invests in you, they want to understand who you are as an artist. Your unique sound, story, and image are crucial to capturing attention.

• Define your genre and style: Labels often look for artists who are clear about their musical direction. Are you a dark pop storyteller, a techno producer, or a Latin trap artist? Make it easy to understand your sound.
• Develop your brand: From your visuals to your lyrics, branding helps create consistency. Think about your logo, press photos, album covers, and how you appear on social media.
• Have a compelling narrative: Labels are attracted to artists with a story. Whether it’s where you’re from, your struggles, or a movement you’re part of—make it memorable.

2. Create and release high-quality music

No matter how great your image is, music is still the product. Invest in making your songs sound professional.

• Produce polished tracks: If you can’t afford a top-tier producer, there are AI-powered tools like LANDR or affordable freelance producers on platforms like SoundBetter or Fiverr.
• Work with session musicians if needed: Even simple instrumentation should sound clean and intentional.
• Release consistently: The more quality music you put out, the easier it is to build momentum and grow your catalog.

We know that creating high-quality music isn't as easy as it seems. That’s why we’ve put together a detailed guide for emerging artists to help them achieve the best possible results.
Read the full article on our blog to dive deeper into the process.

3. Build an engaged audience

Record labels want to see that your music resonates with people. Building an audience proves you’re marketable.

• Grow your fanbase organically: Use platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts to showcase your personality and music.
• Play live shows: Whether in your local scene or via livestream, performing helps you build a fanbase and develop stage experience.
• Use platforms like Matchfy: These tools connect artists with playlist curators, radio stations, and industry professionals, helping you boost your visibility.

Matchfy’s VIP Plan offers a tailored solution for artists and music creators aiming to boost the visibility of their new tracks on major digital platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, and Spotify.

4. Get your music distributed

To get noticed, your music needs to be available on major streaming services.

• Use a digital distributor: Platforms like DistroKid, TuneCore, or Matchfy (which also promotes your music automatically) help you upload tracks to Spotify, Apple Music, and more.
• Track your analytics: Labels will want to see data, streaming numbers, monthly listeners, growth trends, and which cities or countries you're reaching.

With Matchfy, you have the freedom to release your music on over 150 streaming and download platforms worldwide, including Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Deezer, YouTube Music, and many more. We're here to help you reach a global audience while keeping full control over your work.

5. Generate buzz with media coverage and playlists

Being featured on popular blogs, radio, and playlists can signal to labels that you're building traction.

• Submit your music to curators: Use platforms like Matchfy to reach playlists and reviewers.
• Pitch to local press: Even regional blogs or magazines can boost your credibility.
• Build social proof: Screenshots of playlist adds or press mentions are powerful assets when you approach labels.

6. Collaborate and network

Relationships matter in the music industry. Collaborating with others can introduce you to new audiences and open doors.

• Work with other artists and producers: Featuring or being featured on tracks is a smart way to expand your reach.
• Attend industry events: Music conferences, virtual meetups, and local showcases can help you connect with insiders.
• Join music communities: Whether it’s Reddit, Discord, or Facebook groups networking digitally is also valuable.

Building meaningful connections in the music industry can be incredibly challenging. Discover how to establish a strong and effective network by reading the full article.

7. Prepare a professional Press Kit

When you’re ready to reach out to labels, make sure you look the part.

Your EPK (Electronic Press Kit) should include:

• A short, compelling bio
• High-resolution press photos
• Links to your best tracks
• Notable achievements (streaming numbers, media coverage, live shows)
• Contact information
• Include social proof: If you've been added to official playlists or gained viral traction, highlight it.

8. Reach out to the right labels

Not all labels are created equal. Find the ones that align with your genre, style, and career goals.

• Research first: Check which labels are signing artists like you. Use Spotify’s credits or look up recent signings in industry news.
• Start with indie labels: They often provide more attention and resources to developing artists.
• Use warm introductions: If possible, get someone to refer you. Cold emails work too—but make them short, personalized, and to the point.

9. Be smart about contracts

If a label offers you a deal, read it carefully—or hire an entertainment lawyer.

• Watch for red flags: Ownership clauses, royalty splits, and term lengths are key areas to evaluate.
• Negotiate terms: Most deals are flexible if you bring value to the table.
• Don’t rush: A bad deal can hurt your career more than no deal at all.

Conclusion

In today’s ever-changing music industry, securing a record deal is no longer just about having raw talent, it’s about positioning yourself as a complete artist with a strong identity, loyal fanbase, and a clear vision. By honing your sound, crafting a recognizable brand, releasing high-quality music consistently, and actively building connections, you significantly improve your chances of getting noticed by the right label.

The path to a record deal might be long and competitive, but with the right mix of strategy, persistence, and professionalism, it’s absolutely within reach. Stay true to your artistic voice, keep creating, and remember: every step you take toward growth brings you closer to the deal you deserve.