Guidelines

Preamble

These guidelines define the terms and conditions for submitting works to metama records (“the Label”). By submitting, you agree to all terms stated herein.

1. Eligibility

● No Restrictions

Open to individuals and groups regardless of nationality, age, or production environment.

● Rights to the Work

• The work must be an original creation fully owned by the applicant.
• All necessary permissions for samples must be properly cleared.
• No contractual restrictions may limit the work's release.

● Cover Songs

Cover songs are only accepted if permission has been obtained from the original copyright holder. Covers without proper authorization will not be accepted.

● Production Methods

metama is not a specialist label for prompt music (music created solely through AI prompts).

Any production method is acceptable, including the use of AI tools. However, based on Bandcamp's policy, works where the majority of creation is composed of generated AI are, in principle, not included in our catalog.

● Specific Criteria for AI-Generated Works

By "majority," we refer not to the claimed production method, but rather to the auditory and compositional state where AI-generated elements constitute the main parts of the work.

Not Recommended (Outside Catalog):

• Vocals or primary instrument sounds created through AI spectrum synthesis or voice generation
• Tracks that are composed entirely of generated AI output

Permitted Uses (Outside This Policy):

• Effect processing
• Mixing and mastering
• Editing assistance
• Composition assistance

● Prohibited Content

• Expressions promoting violence, terrorism, human trafficking, or criminal acts
• Discriminatory expressions targeting races, religions, or cultures
• Attacks on specific individuals or organizations
• Unauthorized use of copyrighted works or trademarks
• Explicit sexual content
• Anti-scientific conspiracy theories
• Works serving primarily as product advertisements
• Political expressions outside socially accepted norms

● Prohibition of Fraudulent Submissions

metama prohibits automated bulk submissions using bots, scripts, macros, or similar means (spam). Submissions suspected of such activity may be invalidated and blocked without notice.

2. Submission Data

● File Format

• Private link (SoundCloud, Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.)
• Files must be available for download
• 24-bit or higher, 48kHz or higher WAV format
• Work should be close to the final mix

● Previously Released Works

Previously released tracks are accepted. If already published, include the distribution URL. Adjustments may be requested to avoid conflicts.

3. Rights and Usage Permissions

● Copyright

All rights remain with the applicant.

● Free Usage Permission (Selected Works Only)

• Distribution on Bandcamp or Label-operated platforms
• Promotional use on SNS / Web / visual materials

Unselected works will never be used.

● Secondary Use

Secondary use requires prior approval for each instance.

4. Revenue Sharing

● Bandcamp

• Net revenue* will be returned to creators as much as possible.
• Compilations are evenly divided by default.

*Revenue after deducting fees and operating expenses

● DSPs

Currently under consideration; not implemented for now.

● Physical Releases

Net revenue after expenses is paid to the creator.

5. Notes on Revenue Scheme

Revenue terms may change in the future depending on operational costs. Any changes will require prior notice and artist consent. Changes apply only to future releases.

● Operational Policy

metama is a newly launched independent project. Our operational methods and revenue distribution are designed to balance the sustainability of our activities with fair returns to participants, and may be adjusted as circumstances evolve.

● Revenue Distribution Policy for Compilations

• As a general principle, revenue distribution will be conducted within the first year from each compilation's release.
• Distribution applies to net revenue after deducting platform fees and necessary expenses.
• Distribution methods and timing will be determined by the Label for each release and shared with participants.
• A PayPal account may be required to receive payments.

● Exceptional Distribution

If revenue significantly exceeds expectations, or if returning proceeds to participants is deemed appropriate, we may consider revenue distribution even beyond the first year from release. In such cases, we will share the circumstances in advance and discuss the distribution method with participants.

● Voluntary Contribution (Operational Support)

Participants may voluntarily waive their share and contribute it to metama's operating costs. This is entirely optional, and whether or not a participant chooses to contribute will have no bearing on work selection or future involvement.

● Supplementary Note

metama is not a project aimed at maximizing profits.

6. Selection Process and Timeline

● Review Process

• All submissions will be reviewed for alignment with the Label's vision and guidelines, followed by content moderation.

● Notification of Selection

Only selected applicants will be contacted via the email provided at submission.

● Unselected Works

• We do not send individual notifications for unselected works.
• We cannot provide reasons for selection decisions.
• We are unable to respond to individual inquiries regarding rejection.

● Operational Note

metama is a newly launched independent label. To manage operational capacity, responses and review decisions may take time. We appreciate your patience.

7. Release

• Reasonable adjustments may be requested when necessary.
• Data deletion requests will be handled promptly.
• Withdrawal after release is generally not allowed (serious circumstances may be discussed).

8. Data Handling and Disclaimer

● Data Handling

• Submission data is handled solely for review purposes.
• Data from unselected submissions will be deleted after a reasonable period.

● Closure of Submissions

Submissions may be suspended or closed without advance notice based on submission volume.

● Other Disclaimers

• The Label is not responsible for submission failures caused by technical issues.
• These guidelines may change or be discontinued without notice.