The Virtual Label
CEG's Virtual Label is the blueprint and proven model for releasing independent music. CEG helps the artist hire an outsourced team of specialists and manages that team to orchestrate the complete release of an album. This service is recommended to branded clients that have a strong fan base intact. CEG has helped sell over 4 million units (domestically and internationally) including Billboard charting albums by Collective Soul, Jackson Browne, The Doobie Brothers, Elliott Yamin, and many others.
The Virtual Label operates like a wheel with CEG at the hub. CEG performs a label's central functions, acting as the General Manager. We create the budget, develop the marketing plan, hire a team and execute. CEG also fulfills the sales functions in the model and liaises directly with the distributor (we deal with all distributors as well as DSPs). The other companies outsourced by CEG perform specialized tasks (radio promotion, internet marketing, publicity, video promotion, etc.)
Why The Virtual Label Succeeds Where Other Labels Cannot: Flexibility: With CEG, artists can market whatever kind of product they choose, distribute it with whoever they choose, and promote however they want Profitability: - By outsourcing partners and using them only as needed, the Virtual Label eliminates the unnecessary costs of traditional labels. Each budget is tailored to artist needs, shared with the artist, and managed to ensure the project turns a profit. Ownership and control: Artists do not have to surrender ownership of their art to the Virtual Label. They own everything and their creative vision dictates how their music, artwork, photography, and videos look and sound. Fast execution: No record label red tape means no wasted time. Fewer moving parts allow us to spend our days executing for our clients.
Artist Development
In the increasingly competitive environment of the entertainment industry, artists need to cultivate an active fan base before entering into the marketplace. For artists that don't have a touring base and have yet to establish themselves, CEG can help develop a competitive brand by utilizing a variety of partnerships unique to an artist's vision.
- Create the proper imaging/assets (photo shoot, video, marketing materials, website, social media pages, etc.).
- Set up showcases and get the artist in front of the right people who could make a difference.
- Distribute music to a variety of strategic partners to help secure opportunities.
- Online and social media development (grow and activate an online fan base).
- Assist in securing live performance opportunities.
Set up digital and physical releases when it has been determined there is an active fan base of consumers.
Marketing Services For Brands
For brands that are looking to enter into the music industry, CEG can help them do so in a meaningful way. Whether a brand is looking to start its own record label (e.g. Red Bull, Mountain Dew, Converse, etc.), license music, or create a music-centric campaign, CEG can help brands navigate the pitfalls and caveats of the music business. Our experience in artist management and releasing music in this unique industry sets us apart from the myriad of marketing firms that claim they can execute music initiatives. CEG has direct access with artists, managers, agents, and label/publishing executives that allow us to organize and execute for brands better than other 3rd party marketers.
Consulting Sessions
For artists that are not ready to take advantage of our developing artist services, but want to get an idea of what they should be doing to advance their careers, CEG offers consulting sessions that result with a written gameplan for a flat fee.