Label Launch: A Guide to Independent Record Recording, Promotion, and Distribution » (REV)

Veronika Kalmar has been at the forefront of the Seattle music scene as a journalist for the past ten years. She has written for The Seattle Times, Seattle Weekly, The Rocket, and recently the Experience Music Project Museum. She lives in Seattle, Washington.

Whether you're in a band, a business entrepreneur or just interested in the music business, Label Launch will let you take your fantasies of holding the reigns at your own record label into reality. In fun, easy-to-understand language Veronika Kalmar takes you step-by-step through the intricate process of running a label from the moment you think about entering the biz until your first CD, vinyl single, or demo tape rolls off the press. Topics covered include:

Funding your label Maneuvering through the legal maze Selling your product online and off Picking and signing bands Promotion and touring Avoiding the most common pitfalls of a new label

And even tells you when it's time to sell out to "the man."

Kalmer has culled information from the best in the independent record business interviewing heads of labels who have made a great success and those that almost didn't make it.

Library Journal

Although it reads like the textbook from a high school sociology class, this work from Seattle-based music journalist Kalmar is essential reading for any aspiring indie-rocker or fan-boy who isn't musically inclined but longs to be a vital part of "the scene." Centered on the vaunted Pacific Northwest indie-rock ethic, the book is designed as a primer for those interested in starting an independent record label and, just as important, getting the music noticed. With insight from a cast of respected indie music heads e.g., former Sub Pop Records producer Jack Endino and CMJ editor Scott Frampton Kalmar discusses every apparent aspect of starting an independent label, from acquiring tax I.D. numbers to distributing product. The business suggestions and ample appendixes of industry contacts will prove valuable for bands looking to book their own tour or get signed to a record label. Unfortunately, the scarcity of anecdotes from the experts leaves the text rather dry, and one has to wonder whether Label Launch defeats the do-it-yourself ethic championed by the indie-rock scene. Still, there are eager musicians everywhere, which recommends this book for all libraries. Robert Morast, "Argus Leader," Sioux Falls, SD Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information.