Many independent artists agree to allow independent distributors to distribute their music according to a distribution agreement between both parties. Major distribution deals also exist in which the label agrees to manufacture and distribute a release.

Music Business Past vs. Present
There is a new trend in the music business that has record labels sweating in the boardroom. This new trend is called ìDo It Yourselfî (D.I.Y.) . With Digital Technology anyone can start a record label and have a personal studio on their computer. There are a number of free or (very inexpensive) studio recording software applications that allow an artist to record and distribute their own material without the help or control of any other record label.