An indispensable step-by-step guide to releasing your own records and beginning a working independent label. Since the boom of homemade records and independently-minded musicians in the 1980s, the alternative music industry has grown from strength to strength, driven by a policy that privileges the music itself over the aggressive marketing and branding strategies of the majors. You can retain all control and rights to the music you release, allowing you to showcase and sell the music that you believe should be heard.

There has never been a better time to begin a label for yourself,...