Kali Uchis is urging the next generation of artists to think twice before signing with a major record label.
During a Q&A session at Billboard's Latin Music Week 2025, the Colombian American singer offered frank advice about navigating today's rapidly changing music industry. According to Uchis, signing with a major label isn't the end-all, be-all in the industry, as the landscape has changed dramatically.
"Well, advice that I would give to somebody now, and that I give to a lot of artists now, [is that] the industry is very different from how it was when I started," Uchis said. "I would say that signing to a major label isn't necessary and I would tell people not to do that. And most importantly not to compromise."
The Telepatía singer also emphasized the importance of artistic integrity, adding, "That's the main thing that I've always kept in mind when it came to my artistry, to never compromise and to be very intentional about what I'm trying to put into the world."
Uchis' comments come at a time when many artists have found success through independent distribution, social media, and direct-to-fan models. Known for seamlessly blending genres and maintaining tight control over her creative vision, Uchis has long been an advocate for artistic autonomy. She recently signed a new deal with Capitol Records and reflected on her journey in a statement.
"Thank you all for the well-intentioned wishes on this journey, and thank you to my team! I have boundless gratitude for my silent ascent throughout the years and am very much looking forward to what's next," Uchis said about the move to Capitol.
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