The word independent record label is referred to a label that operates without the funding or distribution of major record labels.
However, they can vary is size and even operate small - to medium-sized enterprises or businesses.
The Artists are represented by the international body or trade association known as the worldwide independent network (W.I.N).

 
                         History Of Worldwide Independent Network (W.I.N)

Worldwide Independent Network, was founded and discovered in the year 2006. The United Kingdom scholar Alison Wenham spent 17 years leading the UK's Association of Independent Music (A.I.M), which she launched in 1999. During this time she also helped to found WIN in 2006, remaining at WIN for twelve years, with the last two spent as CEO. As a driving force in helping indie labels be able to compete worldwide with bigger companies, Wenham featured in Billboard's "Top Women in Music" every year since publication. She stepped down from her role at WIN in December 2018, and the following year took on a non-executive director's role at Funnel Music.
On 4 July 2008, WIN had its Independence Day, leading the first annual coordinated celebration of independent music across the world, for which the Australian Independent Record Labels Association created a list of the greatest independent records of all time.

After Wenham's departure or the departure of Wenham, WIN's former Director of Legal and Business Affairs, Charlie Phillips, was promoted to the leadership role, named Chief Operating Officer. He would report directly to the recently elected chair, Justin West, of the Canadian company Secret City Records.

Over the years tons of indie labels have established themselves to compete with the biggerguys. Although the smaller ones do not have the same financial resources as the well known ones, they are able to use social media to propel their music and gain exposure. The growth of social media has meant that many people who might not havebeen able to establish themselves can now do so and actually make soe kind of impact. They are able to build a loyal following and build a close relationship with fans, something thatwasnot really possible in the past, when there was just TV and radio as the only real form of communication channels. 

There is now plenty of choice for artists like myself when it comes to looking to joining a label. There are many options out there but it can be difficult to select the best one that is why it is good to get help when reading contracts and making sure you understand any terms fully before signing anything. I hope this helps! 

Leslie Njoku