Sony Music Egypt was talking to a few artists who fully accepted the royalty system, during the summer. Marei is now hoping to set up a record label that operates on a royalty - and not a flat-fee - basis.
India and Russia have already ventured down the path of royalties. But there are barriers. "The problem here is that there is a serious element of mistrust between artists and local record companies," says Marei. Artists could make more money on the royalty system, but they do not want the risk of getting nothing if the album flops.
Sony worked with its artists on a royalty basis. Artists were contracted for a certain number of albums, and then a number of options after that. The royalty system ensured artist support in promotional activities.
Enthusiastic artist support is essential to successfully hitting the many markets potentially interested in Arab pop music. "France aside - because Arab music there has crossed over into the mainstream - in many other markets - the United States, Britain, Germany, Latin America and Australia - there is a lot of work to do," says Marei.
Meanwhile, the cause of international Arab music has advanced through artists like Shakira, the Colombian singer whose Arab roots are reflected in her Arab-style dancing. "Before 9/11," says Marei, "an article in Billboard predicted Arab music could be the next big explosion."
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Arabies TrendsSunday, December 08 - 2002 at 09:32 UAE local time (GMT+4)
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