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Thanks to LANDR for sponsoring this episode. landr.com/otherrecordlabels

In Episode 5 of How to Start a Record Label This Year, Scott walks through what actually happens when you’re ready to release music—and how to do it in a way that gives your record the best possible chance to succeed.

From choosing the right release date to working backward months in advance, this episode breaks down the practical realities of releasing music today, especially if you’re dealing with physical formats, digital distribution, and limited time and resources.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How to choose a release date that serves the music (not just the calendar)

• Why working backward from release day is essential—especially for vinyl and physical formats

• What assets you need before release day (artwork, photos, videos, press materials, instrumentals)

• How pre-release singles, preorders, and promotion fit into a release timeline

• Why release day is not the finish line—and how to think about the long tail of your music

One of the most intimidating questions new label owners face is: How do I actually find artists for my record label? And right behind it: How do I even approach an artist without feeling awkward or unqualified?

PRESENTED BY LANDR - landr.com/otherrecordlabels

In Episode 4, Scott breaks this down in the most practical—and human—way possible. Instead of chasing hype or cold-pitching strangers, he explains why the healthiest labels grow slowly, organically, and through genuine relationships.

This episode explores:

• Why most labels start with the founder’s own music or close community

• How to “expand your radius” from friends to friends-of-friends to wider scenes

• Matching your label’s stage with artists at the same point in their career

• Using Bandcamp as a powerful (and underused) artist discovery tool

• Why community matters more than connections

• The right mindset for approaching artists: being a fan first, always

Scott shares real stories from his own label’s early days and explains why starting from authenticity—not opportunity—is the foundation of long-term trust, sustainable growth, and meaningful releases.

One of the biggest questions new label owners ask is: When can I officially launch my record label? Is it when you announce the name? Post a logo? Release your first record?

PRESENTED BY LANDR - http://landr.com/otherrecordlabels

In Episode 3, Scott explains why the real answer has less to do with a launch date—and everything to do with what he calls the pipeline.

This episode breaks down why a record label isn’t legitimate because of one release, but because of what comes next. Scott walks through how professional labels think months (and years) ahead, and why momentum, consistency, and planning are what separate sustainable labels from one-off projects.

You’ll learn:

• What a “pipeline” actually is and why every label needs one before launching

• How far ahead your releases should realistically be planned

• A manageable release cadence for one-person and small labels

• How to stagger projects across 3, 6, and 12-month timelines

• Why pipelines build confidence with artists, press, and fans

A strong pipeline keeps your label from stalling after the excitement of release day and helps you build a healthy, sustainable catalog over time—even when some releases perform better than others.