For independent artists, the music industry can feel like a maze of terms and deals. One of the most common questions we hear at Horus Music is: what’s the difference between a music publisher and a record label? Both are major players in the industry, but they play very different roles in an artist’s career.
In this guide, we’ll break down what each does, how they differ, and what independent musicians should consider when deciding whether they need one, both, or neither.
Understanding Music Publishing
What does a music publisher do?
A music publisher manages the rights to a songwriter’s compositions. Their job is to make sure songwriters get paid whenever their songs are used – whether streamed online, played on radio, performed live, or placed in film and TV.
How music publishing helps songwriters
- Collecting royalties across the globe.
- Registering works with rights organisations.
- Pitching songs for sync opportunities (TV, adverts, film, games).
- Protecting your intellectual property and ensuring you’re credited.
For songwriters, publishing is about maximising the value of their original songs, lyrics and compositions. As well as opening doors to opportunities beyond the recorded version of their song and traditional record sales and streams.
Rights and royalties in music publishing
Publishing covers the composition rights, i.e. the lyrics, structure and melody of a song. Every time your song is used, you’re entitled to publishing royalties. These include:
- Performance royalties (radio, TV, live shows).
- Mechanical royalties (streams, downloads, CDs, vinyl).
- Sync royalties (film, TV, adverts, video games).
Understanding Record Labels
What does a record label do?
Where a music publisher works with songwriters and the original music they write, record labels work with the mastered recordings of songs. A record label’s role is to develop, fund, and promote recordings. They typically sign artists, invest in recording, marketing, and distribution, and then share in the revenue generated by those recordings.
Types of record labels (major vs independent)
- Major labels: Big budgets, global reach, but often less flexibility for the artist.
- Independent labels: More personal, often artist-focused, with varied deals.
How record labels support artists
- Financing studio recording and production.
- Marketing and PR campaigns.
- Physical and digital distribution.
- Artist development and branding.
Music Publishing vs Record Label: Key Differences
Roles and responsibilities compared
- Publishers look after songs (the composition).
- Record labels look after recordings (the sound recording).
Royalties and revenue streams
- Publishers collect royalties for songwriters.
- Record labels earn from recorded music sales and streams.
Who benefits — songwriters vs performing artists
- Songwriters benefit most from publishing.
- Performing artists benefit from label support.
- Artists who write and perform their own music can benefit from both.
Do You Need Both a Publisher and a Record Label?
When publishing alone is enough
If you’re a songwriter who doesn’t perform, a publisher may be all you need. They’ll ensure your songs are registered, protected, and pitched for opportunities, i.e. to be recorded by another artist, or featured in a film.
When a record label adds value
If you’re an artist who performs and records, a label can offer the resources to record, promote, and distribute your music more widely.
Options for independent artists
Many independent artists now work without traditional labels. By combining digital distribution services, self-promotion, and publishing support, it’s possible to maintain control and earn fairly from your work.
Alternatives for Independent Artists
Self-publishing and distribution platforms
Digital tools mean you don’t always need a label to release music. Independent artists can register their own publishing rights and distribute music globally.
Using Horus Music for distribution and publishing
At Horus Music, we provide:
- Global music distribution to 200+ platforms (Spotify, Apple Music, TikTok, Amazon, and more).
- Publishing services to collect royalties in over 100 countries.
- Sync licensing opportunities for TV, film, adverts, and games.
- Marketing and promotional support to help your releases reach a wider audience.
This combination allows independent artists to take control of their careers without being tied to traditional label structures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sign with a publisher without a record deal?
Yes. Many songwriters have publishing deals but no record label. It’s common if you write for other artists.
Can I release music without a record label?
Absolutely. With digital distribution platforms like Horus Music, independent artists can release music worldwide without a label.
How do publishing royalties work compared to record royalties?
Publishing royalties come from the composition (lyrics and melody). Record royalties come from the recording. Both can exist for the same song.
Do independent artists need a publisher?
Not always. If you write your own songs and manage your rights, you can collect directly. But a publisher can save time and ensure you’re not missing out on revenue streams.
Is sync licensing part of publishing or a record label?
Sync licensing usually falls under publishing, but in practice both the publisher (composition rights) and label (recording rights) are involved.