After sixteen years with Geffen Records, Weezer has decided to leave the label. They are determined to write songs and promote CD’s on their own.
The band is planning to release B-side tracks for their fans as their first project.
What does this mean for the indie movement?
Indie bands can follow a solid business model if Weezer can be successful with their move. They are planning to do things on their own, according to an interview by bassist Scott Shriner by Billboard Magazine.
We have covered stories about bands like Third Eye Blind and Counting Crows taking the independent route. These bands could have signed with major labels, but took a new approach to the music industry.
Young bands such as OK Go have also moved away from a major label. Basically, the indie band is also making their own path by creating their own label called Paracadute.
OK Go’s move gave a swift kick to the current industry model, but a move like this by a band with a bigger following, Weezer, gives the industry a punch to the temple.
Tour dates have been set up for OK Go, which will help bring in funds for the band. Their label, Paracadute, and OK Go will manage the band’s distribution and promotion.
A band such as Weezer leaving Geffen Records proves once again that there are other resources that can build a solid business model for bands without the backing of a major label. A move like this by Weezer show bands who want to make the same move how it can be done.
Consider independent bands who been surviving on their own and wondering if it’s the right move. They now have a leader to follow in this evolving industry. Indie bands can emulate a business model that can help them prosper.
OK Go just left EMI and caused a big stir, but they also saw a new way to evolve without being held under a major label contract.
Weezer has done the same and maybe will open eyes with their concrete following.
Will other bands soon follow and leave their major labels if Weezer and OK Go are successful, and lay out a solid plan for them to utilize? We shall see…
What do you think? Good moves by Weezer and OK Go?,