Independent Record Labels

Case Study: Domino Records



Key Facts:

• One of Britain's most succesful independent labels
• Founded in 1993 by Laurence Bell - who still runs the label
• Based in London with a US branch
• Rosta included Franz Ferdinland and Artic Monkeys but mostly made up of unusual, less well known artists
• Began by licensing US brands to release in the UK - now releases both UK and US artists

Domino's Vision:

"A passion for music, a back to basics approach... something home-made that's put together with love"

- Laurence Bell

Domino imprints:

• Geographic
• Double Six

Domino cannot afford to sign an artist if they cannot sell fewer than 5000 albums. Their 2 imprints were set up to cater for minority interest artists who are likely to sell to a smaller, niche audience.

Mitigate -> minimise

RECORD LABELS EXIST ESSENTIALLY TO MAKE MONEY!