The Recording Industry: From Vinyl to Virtual

Major Labels

France maintains significant recording industry despite global consolidation:

Universal Music France: Largest share, representing international and domestic artists Sony Music France: Strong in variété and urban music Warner Music France: Balancing international roster with French talent

These majors increasingly partner with independents for A&R while providing distribution muscle.

Independent Excellence

French independents punch above their weight globally:

Harmonia Mundi: Founded 1958, classical and world music excellence Naïve Records: Jazz, classical, and world music with artistic focus ECM France: Keith Jarrett's label's French office Alpha Classics: Baroque and classical specialists

Pop/Rock independents include: - Because Music: Daft Punk's former label, now major independent - PIAS France: Alternative rock and electronic - Kitsuné: Fashion-forward electronic label - Ed Banger Records: Justice, Mr. Oizo's electronic home

The Streaming Revolution

France adapted quickly to streaming, with unique characteristics: - Deezer: French competitor to Spotify, strong domestically - Qobuz: High-resolution streaming for audiophiles - Government negotiations ensuring artist compensation - Quotas requiring French content on radio extending to playlists

Streaming represents 75% of recorded music revenue, fundamentally changing industry dynamics.