record label

Meanings

1. 1nouncountable

   A company that produces and releases music for artists.

   Grammar: Countable, so use a/an or a plural: a record label, several record labels. Often shortened to label in music talk.

   Patterns

   • sign with a record label
   • an independent record label
   • a major record label

   The band signed with a small record label in Nashville.

   She sent her demo to every record label she could find.

   That record label is known for supporting new jazz artists.

2. 2nouncountabletechnical

   The brand or logo printed on a music release, identifying the company behind it.

   Grammar: Also countable; in this sense it can refer to the printed mark on a disc or sleeve.

   Patterns

   • on the record label
   • the record label's logo

   You can read the record label in the center of the vinyl disc.

   Collectors pay high prices for early pressings with that record label.

Word forms

Common combinations

independent record label

They released the album on an independent record label.

major record label

A major record label offered him a three-album deal.

sign with a record label

The singer signed with a record label after the talent show.

record label executive

A record label executive heard the song and loved it.

Synonyms and how they differ

label

Label is the short, informal form used in everyday music talk; record label is fuller and clearer for learners.

music company

A general term for the business side of music, while record label specifically means the company that releases recordings.

Word family

record noun

A music release, or a written account of something.

label noun

A company brand, or a small piece of paper giving information.

Commonly confused: record label or recording studio?

Practice

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