Cease & Desist is a UK-based, artist-first independent record label built around transparency, collaboration and long-term growth.

We were founded by artists and operators who understand both sides of the industry. The creative and the commercial, and who believe modern labels should exist to support, develop and fairly reward artists, not extract value from them.

We’re intentionally independent, deliberately selective, and focused on building something sustainable rather than chasing short-term hype.

Our Labels & Sound

Cease & Desist operates as a small label group, with each imprint serving a clear purpose and sound.

How We Work With Artists

We don’t operate a “factory” model. We work with artists, not around them.

What you can expect:

  • Transparent communication at every stage
  • Collaborative release planning
  • Realistic timelines (no rushed releases)
  • No compilation releases
  • Proper DJ and promo campaigns
  • Honest feedback and long-term thinking

We’re interested in artists who want to grow, evolve and build something meaningful, not just drop a track and disappear. We’re looking for music that tells a story, paints a picture and generates emotion.

San Francisco-based DJ & EDM Music Producer, Major Trouble
The Breakdown Podcast from Cease & Desist

Royalties & Agreements

We operate a fair 50/50 royalty split, with distribution costs absorbed by the label.

That means:

  • No recoupable distribution fees
  • No hidden deductions
  • No confusing maths

All agreements are straightforward, release-specific and designed to protect both parties – plus the Master Recordings are only licensed to us for five (5) years.

What We Offer

Depending on the release and label, support may include:

  • Digital distribution to all major DSPs
  • DJ promo and feedback campaigns
  • Playlist pitching (where appropriate)
  • Editorial pitching via distributors
  • Artwork guidance and release assets
  • Release scheduling and project management
  • Brand-aligned marketing and social strategies
  • Long-term development opportunities
  • Airtime on The Desistance Radio

We don’t promise the world – we promise competence, honesty and effort.

Cease & Desist Mask Logo printed on pink hoodie
It's Jude Specter. Eating grapes. Again.

What We Expect From Artists

We’re selective for a reason. And no, it’s not about social numbers! We look for artists who:

  • Care about their craft
  • Communicate clearly and professionally
  • Are open to feedback
  • Understand that growth takes time
  • Want a partnership, not just a logo on Spotify

If you’re looking for instant fame, guaranteed streams or zero involvement, we’re probably not the right fit.

And that’s OK.

What We Don't Do

We don’t:

  • Charge upfront fees
  • Run vanity releases
  • Lock artists into long-term deals
  • Overpromise results
  • Use streaming or playlist bots
  • Inflate numbers of expectations

We’d rather be honest and smaller than loud and unreliable.

CND2405 - Major Trouble - Put Your Set Up - Plain Cover Artwork
Major Trouble warming up the San Francisco crowd before James Hype 2024

Interested In Working With Us?

If you’ve submitted music via LabelRadar and we’ve reached out – great.
If not and you feel aligned with what we’re building, you’re welcome to start a conversation.

Every message is read and listened to, even if we can’t reply immediately!

Cease & Desist is still growing – and we’re proud of that.

We’re building carefully, intentionally and with the long game in mind.
If that resonates with you, we’d love to talk.

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