Music Industry Rule #32, Part 1: understanding the Culture Industry

From a major label perspective, music in the culture industry tends to be driven by commercial considerations and profit maximization.

Major labels have substantial resources and infrastructure to promote and distribute music on a large scale. They often focus on signing and promoting artists who have mass appeal and can generate significant sales and revenue.
Major labels typically invest heavily in marketing and promotion to ensure the broadest possible exposure for their artists.

They may use various strategies, such as radio airplay, music videos, and endorsements, to reach a wide audience. The aim is to create popular hits that resonate with mainstream listeners and generate substantial commercial success.
On the other hand, indie labels operate with a different ethos.

They often prioritize artistic integrity, innovation, and niche markets over mass appeal and commercial success. Indie labels are known for supporting non-mainstream genres and artists who may have unique and unconventional styles. They provide a platform for musicians who may not conform to the standards set by the mainstream music industry.

Indie labels tend to have more flexibility and creative freedom compared to major labels. They can take risks by promoting experimental or alternative music that may not have broad commercial appeal but caters to specific audiences seeking artistic depth and authenticity. While indie labels may not have the same financial resources as major labels, they often foster closer artist-label relationships and allow for greater artistic control.

In summary, major labels within the culture industry prioritize commercial success and mass appeal, employing extensive marketing strategies to promote their artists. Indie labels, on the other hand, focus on artistic integrity, innovation, and niche markets, supporting non-mainstream genres and artists.

These different perspectives contribute to the diversity and dynamics within the music industry as a whole.