Could an artist sell 1m records without a label?(The big question)

Given the DIY opportunities that now exist for artists, is it possible for a new act to sell a 1m records without signing to a record label?

Jon Webster, director of independent member services, BPI

"Yes, of course it's going to happen. As long as they have the structure and the right people in place it'll happen within the next five years."

Dave Cooper, Melodic

"Of course it is, with the power of the web. Major labels have always traded off the idea that 'you can't sell many records with an indie, you need big budgets to make a good album'. Then most of the best bands come along, record an album on the cheap, sell loads and the myth is dispelled. Trouble is most artists haven't the bullocks to do it themselves or sign with a smaller indie."

Mark Bjornsgaard, director, Artists First

"It is entirely possible for individual bands, although the way the band structures their early career, as well as the way those funding them push money into unsigned talent as a whole, needs to be changed completely. A&R needs to be dragged into the 21st Century. Labels need to start to use risk management techniques by analysing the data generated by bands online to inform their A&R choices."