In reply to Brent Christopher.

EXACTLY - Look at Cheryl Cole, Rita Ora, Nicole Scherzy, those girls never sold out arenas, had blockbuster no.1 global albums or back to back global hits - but the LABEL and management got them endorsed (radio/TV dealed) and PAID to the hilt so that they can become a profitable commodity for the LABEL to get their coins and make return on their investment (advance, investment in album campaigns).

Sure you can do it independent - but not many make it out of the box successfully that way - you still need a label to back you with their influence and coins to reach and keep your audience.