Young musicians seeking a record deal need to be more than great players; they need to have an astute head on their shoulders to steer their way through the choppy waters that are sometimes occupied by sharks.
It can be rather daunting for the creative tunesmith who doesn't normally concern himself with big business.
But now a new label has launched which is run by those who understand musicians best.
After all, Marshall Amplification has been working in tandem with music makers for more than 50 years.
Now the global brand, which has its headquarters in Bletchley, Milton Keynes, is pitting its industry know-how with its 'sound' ability on the hunt for new talent.
Company founder Jim Marshall's passion for music saw his company become the world-leader it remains today, but it began with the J & T Marshall instrument store, opened in London in 1962.
The guitar amplifiers of the time simply weren't hard and good enough to match the talents making the scene their own.
Hendrix, Clapton, Townsend, Blackmore...they needed an amp that was as good as they were.
Jim Marshall listened, and responded, providing louder, meaner guitar amps that swiftly became the brand to play, and made Marshall the quintessential sound of rock.
Much has changed since those early days, of course, but Marshall's passion is steadfast, and the company remains a music brand, full-stop.
The launch of a record label is an obvious move. A 'sound' business move, if you will.
"....if we make the amplifiers that enable guitarists to make music, and we produce products for their fans and music lovers to listen to their music, then it makes sense that we join those two things together and help bands and musicians record, promote and perform their music. And that is exactly why we have created Marshall Records," says Marshall managing director Jon Ellery.
And a sterling brand has a sterling team steering the label.
Rob Cass has been the in-house producer at Abbey Road studios for six years, and is resident at Tileyard Studios in Kings Cross.
He has worked with numerous artists including Brian May, Slash and Jack Bruce.
Steve Tannett has been a music industry figure for fast approaching 40 years, and has associations with multi-platinum selling artists including REM, The Police, Black Sabbath, Jools Holland, Peter Frampton and many others.
Marshall brand licensing director Grace Pantony joins Rob and Steve to manage the label.
Jon says it is the next logical step in Marshall's evolution. But it could be the next big step in yours too...
> Keep up to date with all things Marshall: www.marshallamps.com
