In this episode of Prepping for the Studio, hosts Roy Silverstein and Brian Scheuble are joined by entertainment lawyer, label owner (Pacific Records), and musician, Brian Witkin, to discuss the business side of releasing music.

Just as you have to prep for a studio session, you also have to make sure all your ducks are in a row before releasing a song, EP, or album! Brian gives a great overview of various things one should be thinking about and doing ahead of your release.

NOTE: While Brian Witkin may be an attorney, please consult your own lawyer or consultant in the field before making any decisions on the business side of your music career. This podcast episode is simply a conversation with some helpful insights.

00:00 Welcome to the Podcast

00:42 Meet the Guest, Brian Witkin

01:09 Music Is a Business

02:46 PROs Explained

05:05 Split Sheets and Songwriting

09:44 Two Copyright Basics

10:56 Copyright Registration Steps

12:19 Masters, Labels, and Publishing

19:28 Streaming Royalties Breakdown

21:47 Distributors and Publishing Opt Ins

25:27 Aggregator Picks and Bandcamp

27:52 Physical First Strategy

28:54 Exclusives And Merch

30:10 Label Role And Contracts

31:04 Work For Hire Basics

32:34 Producer Points Explained

34:57 Label Services Breakdown

36:31 Release Lead Time Planning

38:12 Radio Publicity Touring

42:59 Do You Need A Label?

43:47 Managers And Building Team

45:33 Social Media Content Machine

47:14 Music Videos And Sync

51:06 Long Game Mindset

54:36 Wrap Up And Where To Find Brian

55:05 Final Credits And Outro

Check out Brian at:

https://brianwitkin.com/

Pacific Records:

https://pacificrecords.com/

Please visit http://www.preppingforthestudio.com for more info and to download the free ebook, "A Musician's Guide To The Recording Studio".

Hosts:

Roy Silverstein of Rarefied Recording (www.rarefiedrecording.com)

and

Brian Scheuble (www.brianscheuble.com)

If you have questions, comments, or suggestions please email Roy: [email protected]

If you love this podcast, please leave a review on whatever platform you listen to your podcasts on.