Levyyhtiö

Levy-yhtiö, or record label, is a company in the music industry that signs artists, finances and oversees the production of sound recordings, and handles distribution and promotion. A levy-yhtiö focuses on master recordings and related rights, working closely with artists, producers and distributors. It differs from music publishers, which primarily manage musical compositions.

Core activities include A&R scouting, signing acts, arranging recording sessions, financing production, and overseeing mixing and mastering. The label handles artwork, packaging, and release campaigns, negotiates distribution with retailers and streaming services, and licenses material for film, TV, and ads. It also manages royalty accounting and rights administration.

Business terms vary, but commonly an artist receives royalties after the label recoups advances and recording costs. Masters are often owned by the label for the contract duration, while publishing rights may be handled separately. Royalty splits, recoupment schedules, and renewal options are negotiated case by case.

Labels range from major multinational corporations to independent and boutique outfits. They adapt to digital distribution, streaming revenue, and licensing opportunities. In addition to commercial aims, many levy-yhtiöt support artistic development and maintain a catalog usable across formats and territories. Compliance with copyright law and participation in collective management is customary.

Historically, labels emerged to finance and distribute records within the wider music industry. In Finland and other markets, levy-yhtiöt contribute to developing local artists and genres while participating in global distribution networks. The term levy-yhtiö is commonly used in Finnish to denote such companies.