Sub Pop Records is an independent record label founded in Seattle, Washington, in 1986. It is known for its association with the grunge music scene and has released albums by influential bands such as Nirvana, Soundgarden, and Mudhoney.

An indie label, short for independent label, is a record label that operates independently of major record companies. Indie labels are typically smaller in size and have more creative freedom compared to major labels.

Dischord Records is an independent record label founded in Washington, D.C., in 1980. It played a crucial role in the development of the hardcore punk scene in the 1980s, releasing albums by bands such as Minor Threat, Fugazi, and Rites of Spring.

Motown Records was founded by Berry Gordy Jr. in 1959 in Detroit, Michigan. It became a major force in the soul and R&B music genres, releasing hit songs by artists such as Diana Ross & The Supremes, Stevie Wonder, and Marvin Gaye.

Creation Records was an independent record label founded in London, England, in 1983. It played a significant role in the success of the British indie pop movement in the 1980s, releasing albums by bands such as My Bloody Valentine, The Jesus and Mary Chain, and Primal Scream.

Crossover is the term used to describe the process by which an indie record label achieves mainstream success. This can involve signing artists with broader appeal, releasing more commercially viable music, and gaining recognition from mainstream media outlets.

Dischord Records was founded by Ian MacKaye and Jeff Nelson in 1980 in Washington, D.C. It became a prominent force in the hardcore punk scene, releasing albums by bands such as Minor Threat, Fugazi, and Rites of Spring.

Island Records was founded by Chris Blackwell in 1959 in Jamaica. It became a major player in the reggae and ska music genres, releasing albums by artists such as Bob Marley and the Wailers, Jimmy Cliff, and Toots and the Maytals.

Sire Records was founded by Seymour Stein and Richard Gottehrer in 1974 in New York City. It became known for its eclectic roster of artists, including Madonna, The Ramones, Talking Heads, and Depeche Mode.

A major label is a record label that is owned by a major record company. Major labels typically have larger budgets, more resources, and a wider distribution network compared to indie labels.

Spotify was founded by Daniel Ek and Martin Lorentzon in 2006 in Stockholm, Sweden. It revolutionized the music industry with its streaming service, which allows users to listen to music online without downloading it.

Warner Bros. Records was founded by Mo Ostin in 1958 in Burbank, California. It became a major force in the rock and pop music genres, releasing albums by artists such as The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, and Madonna.

Geffen Records was founded by David Geffen in 1970 in Los Angeles, California. It became known for its roster of successful rock and pop artists, including Guns N' Roses, Nirvana, and Aerosmith.

Acquisition is the term used to describe the process by which a major record label acquires an indie record label. This can involve purchasing the indie label outright or acquiring a majority stake in the company.

Def Jam Recordings was founded by Rick Rubin in 1988 in New York City. It became known for its releases in the hip hop and rock genres, releasing albums by artists such as LL Cool J, Public Enemy, and Beastie Boys.