My wealth comes from owning my masters.

Owning your masters is often discussed among musicians and industry professionals as the key to building sustainable wealth. From personal experience and observing various artists' journeys, having control over your master recordings allows you to earn from multiple revenue streams like streaming, licensing, and sales without the middleman taking a large cut. In recent years, artists like Larry June have highlighted that the secret to financial independence lies not just in producing music but in owning the original recordings—the masters. This ownership means they can decide how their music is distributed and monetized, ensuring a direct link to their earnings. It also provides negotiation power when licensing opportunities arise, such as for commercials, movies, or sampling. Moreover, owning your masters reduces reliance on record labels, who historically controlled artists' rights and royalties. It empowers artists to build their brand and wealth on their own terms. For emerging and established musicians alike, prioritizing contracts that safeguard master ownership is a wise investment. Finally, controlling your masters aligns with a bigger understanding of the music business's mathematical side—knowing how royalties flow and where your revenue comes from. This financial literacy, combined with owning your masters, forms a solid foundation for a thriving music career. Embracing these principles can transform how artists engage with their craft and their economics.