Netaudio Research

Netlabels: an alternative approach in music production?

by Andi Studer

written as part of the Post-Graduate Scheme in Arts and Media, London South Bank University. Supervisor Dr. Hillegond C. Rietveld

Abstract
This text aims to provide further insight as to what netlabels are in a social, economic and creative context. It will show netlabels as a cultural project that relates to both the recording industry and to the emerging Internet culture. Hence I will argue that a in addition to providing an alternative format of music distribution, netlabels also demonstrate an alternative approach in music production. With reference to theories such as the network society, post-Fordism and commons-based peer production the following will investigate how netlabels are product of a society with access to network technologies, show their position in the broader recording industry and how the netlabel format influences the creative content of the music it releases.

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References

Many thanks to Gonnie and the London South Bank University