Video by MUBUTV – Music Business Television via YouTube

The Truth About Record Deals: Are They Still Worth It In 2026?
Step inside the new era of music entrepreneurship with music attorney Ryan Kairalla! We explore why the value of a record label isn’t the same for every artist, how technology empowers musicians to run their own empires, and why today’s artists need to be proactive, educated, and creative. Perfect for anyone looking to break through as a DIY musician, manage music industry career paths, or negotiate smart record deals! 💡🎤 #MusicEntrepreneur #ArtistDevelopment #MusicIndustryTips
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Books mentioned & suggested:
📒 Break the Business – https://amzn.to/4ebmk6c
📒 All You Need To Know About the Music Business 11th Edition – https://amzn.to/3sdgrja
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⏰ TIMECODES ⏰
0:00 Intro
6:45 For an emerging artist today, what’s the single most common misconception you see that they have about record deals, and how can they protect themselves from making that mistake?
7:41 What does a blueprint for a successful independent music career look like today and how has it evolved in the last five years?
9:31 Can you discuss why you feel artists need to be more educated about the business aspects of their career today, more so than in previous eras?
12:24 Is the value of a record label in today’s world the same for all artists?
14:09 Do you think that we’re redefining what success means for artists today?
15:50 Do new artists and songwriters need to create more opportunities for themselves before getting signed?
18:38 What do you feel holds artists back from success in their careers?
28:04 Are there any books or films or documentaries that have been inspirational to you professionally that you could recommend to our listeners?
30:07 What advice do you have for artists who are committed to building a career in music today?
31:44 What is the best way for people to reach you?
🎵 Music provided by Disciples of Babylon. Check them out here ➡️ https://spoti.fi/3kSY0wR
To learn more about this episode visit:
https://www.mubutv.com/ryan-kairalla-music-attorney
Podcast Credits
Produced by: Ritch Esra & Eric Knight
Editor: Eric Knight
Shownotes & Transcriptions: Andy Bleu Heeler
Get expert music business insider advice to help build your career. Learn how to navigate the industry and improve your path forward. This video features segments from the MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast, hosted by Ritch Esra and Eric Knight. If you are looking for practical music career advice , these discussions provide the clarity needed to handle current industry challenges. Whether you are an independent artist or just starting out, this music industry podcast offers insights relevant to your professional growth. Beyond these segments, we offer a free 15-minute discovery call for those seeking personalized music business coaching . This session is designed to help you clarify your goals and refine your music career strategy effectively. New episodes are released every Tuesday on Apple, Spotify, and iHeart Radio for ongoing support. Subscribe for weekly music career strategy breakdowns, and comment below with your biggest question about the industry right now.
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