Music Artist Fights Back Against Predatory Label Contracts

Independent Music Artist Faces Industry Hurdles: 'Labels Wanted 100% of Revenue' Los Angeles, CA – May 29, 2025 – Music artist Max, known for his work under the moniker PlaqueboyMax, recently shared his experience navigating the complexities of sample clearance in the music industry. In a short video posted on social media, Max details how record labels demanded complete control over both revenue and the masters of his album, leaving him with little to no profit despite his creative contributions. "These guys basically wanted to make all the money from the song," Max explains in the video, his frustration evident. "They wanted to own the masters of the song." His struggle highlights a common issue faced by many independent artists, where the financial burden of sample clearance and the lack of creative control often stifle their careers. Max's video has already gained significant traction online, sparking conversations about fair practices in the music industry and the need for greater transparency and equitable contracts for artists. The incident underscores the ongoing debate about the power dynamics in the music industry and the challenges faced by independent artists seeking to retain creative freedom and financial stability. Max's story serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the importance of artists understanding their rights and negotiating fair contracts to protect their work and livelihood.