A&R
Artists and Repertoire, the label division responsible for discovering talent and overseeing releases.
Definition
A&R (Artists and Repertoire) is the record label division responsible for discovering and developing talent, matching artists with songs and producers, and overseeing the creative direction of recordings. A&R executives are talent scouts, creative advisors, and project managers combined.
The role has evolved from finding artists for labels to nurturing creator development, coordinating collaborations, and ensuring commercial viability of releases.
Why It Matters
A&R decisions shape which artists get label support and resources. Understanding A&R helps artists know what labels look for and how signing decisions are made.
For marketers, A&R relationships can provide early access to developing artists before they break.
Examples in Practice
An A&R executive discovering an artist on social media and signing them to a development deal.
A&R coordinating sessions between an artist and hit songwriters to create single-worthy material.
Label A&R passing on an artist who later becomes a star, a cautionary industry tale.