For the most part, yes. While they may be rooted in a creative industry, record labels are still businesses, and they must make money, so they often try to steer their signed musicians toward the popular styles and sounds of the day. This is why when something becomes big, many top-tier stars rush to find hits of their own in the same vein, and why something completely original may not receive the same attention as other releases.
There have been countless stories throughout the years of artists–even superstars–describing the incredible power record labels held over them. Some acts were forced to record songs they didn’t care about, change lyrics, or promote one tune as a single over another. In some instances, record labels also decide the names of songs, albums, and even pick the art that covers a CD.
The power record labels exert over artists can move beyond simply creative fields as well. According to The Balance, “Depending on the contract structure, record labels also have the ability to set the amount of money their artists earn.” There are also examples of acts who were taken advantage of when it came to revenues, royalties, and more.
Being signed to a major record label may provide the opportunity to become a star, but it is not without some serious possible drawbacks.