Going Solo: The Real Pros and Cons of Being an Independent Musician 

So, you’re thinking of going the indie route? Maybe you’ve just written your first EP, or perhaps you’ve been part of a buzzing independent music band that’s tired of waiting on the big guys to notice. Either way, the question is the same: Do I really need a record label anymore? In 2025, more artists than ever are calling the shots—writing, recording, and releasing music on their own terms. But while the journey of an independent musician is full of freedom, it’s not without its growing pains. Let’s take a closer, more personal look at the real pros and cons of walking the indie path.

We’ll be taking a look at the following:

1. The Pros of being an Independent Musician
   
   
2. The Cons of being an Independent Musician
   
   
3. Is it worth it being an Independent Musician?
   
   

The Pros of being an Independent Musician

1. You’re in Charge

There’s something about waking up, opening your laptop, and saying, “This song’s dropping Friday.” No A&R meetings, no “This doesn’t sound commercial enough.” As an independent musician, you control the sound, the vibe, the visuals—everything.

Indie rockers, experimental beatmakers, lo-fi lovers—everyone from bedroom producers to full-on independent rock music bands are now finding audiences without ever stepping into a major label office.

And that freedom? It’s liberating and addictive.

2. Ownership equals Power

This one hits different. When you’re not signed to a traditional record label, every stream, sync deal, or merch sale is yours. No slicing the pie a dozen ways. You don’t have to give up your masters or fight years later to get them back.

Sure, record label BMG might offer a nice advance, but ask anyone who’s been stuck in a restrictive contract—owning your work from the start is fulfilling and priceless.

3. You Build Real Connections

Ever DMed with a fan who found your song during a rough time? Or had a tiny crowd sing your lyrics back to you?

As an indie artist, you're not just creating music—you’re building a community. You’re showing the hustle behind the art, sharing the messy, behind-the-scenes moments, and letting your fans grow with you.

Whether you’re solo or in one of many rising independent music bands, your people stick around because they believe in you—not just your numbers.

4. You Learn the Industry (Even the Ugly Bits)

The truth? You wear all the hats: producer, marketer, booking agent, social media manager—and yes, sometimes therapist. Understanding record label positions like PR, sync licensing, or A&R becomes part of your daily grind.

It’s a crash course in the music business that no classroom could ever teach. And down the road? That knowledge will be gold.

The Cons of being an Independent Musician

1. Everything Costs—And It’s On You

Recording that EP? It’s coming out of your savings. Music video? Better call in favours. Touring? Get ready for couch-surfing and gas station dinners.

Without a record label fronting the budget, you have to be strategic—sometimes painfully so. It can slow things down or even put projects on hold. And that hurts.

2. Burnout Is Real

Let’s be honest: doing everything yourself sounds cool until you’re juggling three platforms, booking your own gigs, and fighting algorithm changes. Not to mention working a side job just to fund the next release.

Even if you understand all the record label positions, from promo to distribution—you only have so many hours in a day.

3. Getting Noticed is an Uphill Battle

You can make the best song of your life and still struggle to reach the right ears. Without the muscle of big labels, marketing and distribution become serious challenges.

You might spend more time pitching playlists than making music—and that imbalance can weigh heavily.

4. The Constant Data Dance

Numbers, numbers, numbers. Followers, engagement, monthly listeners... At some point, you start creating based on stats instead of your heart. And that’s when the joy starts to fade.

Being independent means being tuned in—but it also means protecting your creative soul.

Is it worth it being an Independent Musician?

If you’re someone who values freedom, connection, and owning your journey, being an independent musician might just be the most rewarding (and exhausting) thing you’ll ever do.

But it’s not for everyone.

There’s no shame in dreaming of that big record label deal or aligning with a powerhouse, especially if they believe in your vision and offer fair terms. Just remember: no matter which path you choose, your music is yours.

We at GreaseRelease, have a bunch of curators on our network who are looking for new & exciting music to push on their massive playlists. If you make music and want to reach a wider audience, check out our submission platform and get a chance to reach millions of listeners! Submit your tracks now!