We believe that just because a career has ended, the music shouldn't disappear. No Dead Records exists to ensure that legacy catalogs find a permanent home. To streamline the process, we have launched Limbo. Think of this portal as an intake desk for the archive: it is where you apply to join the roster, provide your catalog details, and access exclusive resources to help manage your rights.
Before You Enter: Key Considerations
We want to make sure your archiving process is smooth. Before you create your account, here are a few things to check off your list to ensure your catalog is ready for preservation.
- Confirm Your Rights - The most important step is ownership. Please ensure you are the legal rights holder for the music or the authorized representative of the estate. If there are multiple band members, we recommend having a conversation to ensure everyone is on the same page about preserving the work.
- Locate Your Source Material - Where does the music live right now? Is it on a hard drive, a stack of CDs, or a cassette in the attic? Already online? Knowing the format of your "masters" helps us determine the best path for digitization and distribution.
- Gather Your History - Context is king. While the audio is the priority, we also love to see photos, bio information, and liner notes. Start gathering those scanned images or old text files—they help us tell the story of the release.
Common Questions
Who qualifies as a "Legacy Artist"?
We define a Legacy Artist as a musician or group that is no longer actively recording or touring. This includes retired musicians, bands that have disbanded, or artists who have passed away. If the project is "inactive," it belongs here.
What if I only have physical copies (tapes, vinyl, CDs)?
Don't worry. This is exactly why we exist. While we prefer digital files if you have them, we are experienced in handling physical media. During the application process, tell us what formats you have, and we can provide guidance on the best way to get them digitized and preserved.
Do I lose the rights to my music?
Absolutely not. No Dead Records is a distribution and archival partner for releases, not an owner. You (or the estate) retain full ownership of the recordings and the compositions. We are simply here to build the bridge between your archive and the streaming platforms.
How does the application process work?
It starts in Limbo. You will create an account. We review every application to ensure it fits our mission, and will reach out to you via email for additional information. Once approved, you’ll receive access to the full portal where you can upload music, manage royalty info, and view exclusive resources.
We listen to every submission
Please keep in mind that No Dead Records is human operated. We take the time to review every application to ensure the music aligns with our mission and meets eligibility criteria. While we aim to move quickly, we prioritize care over speed. Your patience is appreciated as we give your application the attention it deserves.
Ready to secure your legacy?
Stuck in Limbo?
If you run into technical trouble with the portal or just have a question that isn’t answered here, don’t hesitate to reach out. We are here to guide you through the process.
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