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Other Record Labels
Taking the Mystery out of Running a Record Label A podcast for independent record labels with interviews from Sub Pop, Ghostly International, Mute Records, Jagjaguwar, and more. Tips and advice for people starting and running a record label. www.otherrecordlabels.com
Total 326 episodes
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Heart Dance Records - (Eddy Ruyter, Sherry Finzer, Julia Hanney)

Heart Dance Records - (Eddy Ruyter, Sherry Finzer, Julia Hanney)

This week’s interview is with Heart Dance Records, a women-owned and run instrumental label with a mission to create peaceful music to relax, reduce stress, focus, inspire, grieve, heal, meditate and calm. In this episode, we tackle the question of whether it’s okay or not for music fans to treat music as a utility.  For a lot music, it’s an emotional, intimate connection we have with the songs and the albums we love… and we link that directly back to the artist who wrote or sang the song. But in some cases, music simply augments our mood or the environment we’re in.  The music becomes similar to a cup of coffee, or a glass of wine, a house plant, or comfy chair.  Is there a problem with that? Is that disrespectful to the artist when we passively utilize music?  Or is that something that was intended by the artist?   VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR RECORD LABEL RESOURCES: http://otherrecordlabels.com Heart Dance Records: http://heartdancerecords
43:0107/02/2023
How Fans Can Support Artists (and Record Labels)

How Fans Can Support Artists (and Record Labels)

In this episode, we talk about 10 simple ways that music fans can support the artists and record labels they love. Then we look at 5 ways us as record labels can make it easier for fans to support us! Read the article from today’s show at http://otherrecordlabels.com
28:2531/01/2023
Artists on Labels: The Beths

Artists on Labels: The Beths

Artists on Labels is a new series that features indie artists discussing their relationships with record labels. This series is meant to teach label owners how to better serve, inspire, and empower the artists on their roster!   This week: exclusive interview with The Beths!   ►► Download our free Record Label Toolkit - http://OtherRecordLabels.com/toolkit
43:4524/01/2023
Artists on Labels: Bartees Strange

Artists on Labels: Bartees Strange

Exclusive interview with Bartees Strange, talking about how to be an indie artist in the short-form video culture, the labels he grew up with, and how indie record labels can better serve indie artists!   ►► Download our free Record Label Toolkit - http://OtherRecordLabels.com/toolkit
25:5517/01/2023
Artists on Labels: Wheatus

Artists on Labels: Wheatus

Artists on Labels is a new series that features indie artists discussing their relationships with record labels. This series is meant to teach label owners how to better serve, inspire, and empower the artists on their roster!   This week: exclusive interview with Wheatus!   ►► Download our free Record Label Toolkit - http://OtherRecordLabels.com/toolkit
57:2410/01/2023
Artist on Labels: Pictoria Vark

Artist on Labels: Pictoria Vark

Artists on Labels is a new series that features indie artists discussing their relationships with record labels. This series is meant to teach label owners how to better serve, inspire, and empower the artists on their roster!   ►► Download our free Record Label Toolkit - http://OtherRecordLabels.com/toolkit
28:4403/01/2023
Great Books for Record Labels - (2022 Edition)

Great Books for Record Labels - (2022 Edition)

Check out all of my book recommendations here: http://otherrecordlabels.com/books
15:5727/12/2022
What Record Labels Are Doing Differently in 2023

What Record Labels Are Doing Differently in 2023

Read/Watch today's episode at http://otherrecordlabels.com/record-label-trends   Sign up for our Record Label Insights mailing list here: http://otherrecordlabels.com/insights
22:5220/12/2022
Quick Win: Stop Promoting Yourself!

Quick Win: Stop Promoting Yourself!

Get more #RecordLabel Quick Wins here: http://otherrecordlabels.com/quickwins   Download my FREE record label Toolkit here: http://otherrecordlabels.com/toolkit
02:5815/12/2022
Weird Sister Records - (Heather Cook, Sug Daniels, Adi Guerrerx)

Weird Sister Records - (Heather Cook, Sug Daniels, Adi Guerrerx)

Download out FREE #RecordLabel Toolkit: http://otherrecordlabels.com/toolkit This week's episode is with Madison and Deanna, co-founders of the record label collective, Weird Sister Records! Learn more about this label here: https://www.weirdsisterrecords.com/
59:3113/12/2022
The Power of a Record Label Back Catalog

The Power of a Record Label Back Catalog

Get the notes from today's episode at http://otherrecordlabels.com/backcatalog
19:5006/12/2022
Quick Win: Record Label Superfans

Quick Win: Record Label Superfans

Get more #RecordLabel Quick Wins here: http://otherrecordlabels.com/quickwins Ps. You can check out the book here: http://geni.us/superfans-book Download my FREE record label Toolkit here: http://otherrecordlabels.com/toolkit
04:2701/12/2022
Wicked Opossum Records - (Wheatus, The Operation MD, Riverboat Gamblers)

Wicked Opossum Records - (Wheatus, The Operation MD, Riverboat Gamblers)

In this episode, I speak with a brand new record label that have yet to release their first album, Wicked Opossum Records. This label decided to undertake the daunting task of putting together a Kinks compilation that features artists like Wheatus, The Operation MD, Riverboat Gamblers, and many more. And they seemed to have pulled it off! Some of the takeaways from today's interview include the fact that no one’s going to give you permission, "rush into research" and how everything costs more and takes longer than you planned! Learn more about this label http://wickedopossum.bandcamp.com   ►► Download our free Record Label Toolkit - http://OtherRecordLabels.com/toolkit
45:0829/11/2022
How to Find an Investor for Your Record Label

How to Find an Investor for Your Record Label

Let's talk about how to find an investor for your record label. And more importantly, why someone might want to invest in your label...  This is actually a question that I’ve been asked a lot in our community. I understand that for a lot of you, this isn’t something that may interest you. Perhaps you like operating with your own resources, as an independent company. But for some of you, this is something that you’re interested in or at least want to know more about what it means to find an investor in your record label. I actually really enjoyed putting together today’s episode – because even though looking for outside investors hasn’t ever been on my radar – I feel like I have a lot more clarity about this space – and I think you’re going to find this helpful, regardless of where you are on your label journey. Get the notes from today's show at http://otherrecordlabels.com/investors Download my FREE toolkit for Reccord Labels here: http://otherrecordlabels.com
13:0922/11/2022
Quick Win: Support Another Record Label!

Quick Win: Support Another Record Label!

Get more Quick Wins for record labels at: http://otherrecordlabels.com/quickwins
02:3217/11/2022
Warp Records (Flying Lotus, Aphex Twin, Boards of Canada)

Warp Records (Flying Lotus, Aphex Twin, Boards of Canada)

In this episode, I speak with Steven Hill, the head of North America and Global Marketing for Warp Records. We talk all about marketing for record labels; how to look outside of music for marketing inspiration; how artists are involved in the campaign in their own special way; and how marketing always starts with the art, the artist, and the music.Get ready for an electrifying episode as we dive into the dynamic world of Warp Records, one of the most influential and boundary-pushing record labels in the industry. Join us as we sit down with Steven Hill, the innovative marketing director of Warp Records, for a captivating conversation that will leave you inspired and energized. In this episode, Steven takes us on a journey through the visionary landscape of Warp Records, renowned for its groundbreaking roster of artists and cutting-edge electronic music. Discover the creative strategies and bold marketing tactics that have propelled Warp Records to the forefront of the industry. As Steven shares his wealth of experience, you'll gain unique insights into the ever-evolving nature of the music business. Uncover the secrets behind Warp Records' ability to stay ahead of the curve, constantly pushing boundaries and defying expectations. From cultivating emerging talents to fostering a sense of artistic freedom, Steven reveals the core principles that drive Warp Records' success. Prepare to be inspired as we explore the intricate relationship between art and commerce. Steven's passion for music shines through as he discusses the delicate balance of nurturing artists' creative visions while ensuring commercial viability. Gain a deeper understanding of the behind-the-scenes workings of a record label and the pivotal role of marketing in amplifying artists' voices. Join us on this exhilarating episode as we delve into the visionary world of Steven Hill and Warp Records. From mind-bending soundscapes to mind-blowing marketing strategies, this conversation will open your eyes to the immense possibilities that lie within the realm of electronic music.   Check out all of our resources on Record Label Marketing: http://otherrecordlabels.com/marketing   Check out our new Record Label Apparel: http://otherrecordlabels.com/merch  
54:0715/11/2022
How to Make Great Album Artwork

How to Make Great Album Artwork

Get the notes from today's episode at http://otherrecordlabels.com/artwork
29:5108/11/2022
Quick Win: Record Store Freebies!

Quick Win: Record Store Freebies!

Here's a quick win for you, something easy, free, and helpful that you can start doing TODAY to help you grow your record label and improve your life!  Today, we talk the simple act of dropping some free records/merch off to your local record store. This helps you build and nurture your relationship with your local music community! Need more quick wins? Visit: http://otherrecordlabels.com/quickwins
02:2203/11/2022
The Current State of Manufacturing Music - Industry Insiders

The Current State of Manufacturing Music - Industry Insiders

Today we talk with Karen Emanuel the founder of Key Production, a UK company who has specialized in manufacturing CDs, tapes, and vinyl for the past 30 years.  In this interview we talk about what is behind the delays in manufacturing, price increases, and materials shortages.  Get the notes from today's episode at http://otherrecordlabels.com/manufacturing Key Production was kind enough to offer our community 5% off their next manufacturing project, when emailing [email protected]  with the code ORL5%OFF!
59:0801/11/2022
How to Promote Your Record Label

How to Promote Your Record Label

Get notes from the episode and a FREE marketing checklist http://otherrecordlabels.com/marketing    
25:2725/10/2022
The Power of Lead Time

The Power of Lead Time

This week's episode is taken from the new book, Record Label Marketing Strategies. You can get it on Amazon now: http://geni.us/recordlabelmarketing and on our website: http://otherrecordlabels.com/book   Essentially, Lead time is the amount of time from the start of an album to its release date. More specifically, in marketing for a new release, I consider lead time to be the time between when the masters are complete, and when the album (or single) is released to the public. A lot of independent artists finish recording on a Saturday, master on a Sunday, and release on a Monday. There is something beautiful about the spontaneity of home-recording, and the ease of distribution that today’s technology provides. However, a negative byproduct of this immediacy is the failure of artists to give their audience the joy of anticipation. Additionally, giving time for the press and playlist curators will create more chances for your record to succeed. Also catch up on our Release Roadmap series here: http://otherrecordlabels.com/roadmap
18:1518/10/2022
Your Record Label’s Niche

Your Record Label’s Niche

Get the notes from the show and more at otherrecordlabels.com/niche   Today, we’re talking all about the power of a niche, which is from Chapter 1 of the new book, Record Label Marketing Strategies. The term “niche” is defined as a specialized segment of the market for a particular kind of product or service. A record label’s niche could include their genre, geographic location, social stance, or any combination of specific categories.
15:0711/10/2022
Common Social Media Mistakes Record Labels Make

Common Social Media Mistakes Record Labels Make

Learn more and download the free notes and resources from today's episode here: http://otherrecordlabels.com/socialmedia Buy the new book, Record Label Marketing Strategies here: http://geni.us/recordlabelmarketing  
28:1804/10/2022
Quick Win: Create Something Everyday

Quick Win: Create Something Everyday

Here's a quick win for you, something easy, free, and helpful that you can start doing TODAY to help you grow your record label and improve your life!  Today, we talk quickly about healthy habits, and the daily habit of creating something every single day! Need more quick wins? Visit: http://otherrecordlabels.com/quickwins
04:1422/09/2022
ATA Records (Tony Burkill, Abstract Orchestra, Jake Mehew)

ATA Records (Tony Burkill, Abstract Orchestra, Jake Mehew)

This week on the Other Record Labels podcast, I interviewed Neil from a UK label called ATA Records, which stands for All Things Analog. The name of the label is important because it is an expression of Neil’s love of “all things analog” -- a passion he shares with his dedicated audience.  In this week’s interview episode of the podcast, Neil talks about his newfound love of email marketing, how he had to take over the business side of running a label, and how he’s building upon the old school record label model of a record label with an in-house recording studio…   Download a FREE Record Label Toolkit: http://otherrecordlabels.com/toolkit
01:04:5620/09/2022
Record Labels Take Time

Record Labels Take Time

Let’s get right to the point: Great things take time! Hard things take time! Which kinda makes sense, otherwise they wouldn’t be hard, and they wouldn’t be great! Let’s look at 3 reasons time is good for us and why we should embrace how long it takes to grow our record labels… Get my free record label toolkit: http://otherrecordlabels.com/toolkit
19:3113/09/2022
a big change is coming...

a big change is coming...

Sign up here: http://otherrecordlabels.com/insights Feel free to drop me a line: [email protected]
02:3011/09/2022
Quick Win: Audit Your Label’s Website

Quick Win: Audit Your Label’s Website

Here's a quick win for you, something easy, free, and helpful you can do TODAY to help you grow your record label: How to regularly audit your record label's website!    More QUICK WINS? Visit: http://otherrecordlabels.com/quickwins
03:1708/09/2022
Catapult Recordings (Butch Wifey, Talel McBriar, Lu Lagoon)

Catapult Recordings (Butch Wifey, Talel McBriar, Lu Lagoon)

In this episode, I speak with Cooper Anderson, who started his record label when he was 14 years old!!  We talk about how his young age works to his advantage, and how he hopes to make a lasting impact in the Oklahoma City music scene... all while still in high school!    Learn more: http://catapultrecordings.com  
51:0706/09/2022
Sync Licensing and Composing Music

Sync Licensing and Composing Music

In this episode I speak with indie artist (and soon-to-be label founder), Levphonic about how he got his start in composing music for sync. We discuss how to prioritize your catalog for different sync opportunities, and how his song was used in a pretty awkward scene with a serial killer...  Get all of our episodes and resources on Sync Licensing at http://otherrecordlabels.com/sync Learn more about Levphonic here: https://wlo.link/@Levphonic  
51:0630/08/2022
Sync Licensing and Music Supervisors

Sync Licensing and Music Supervisors

In this episode, I interview Julian Drucker, a music supervisor from LA who has worked on shows like The Shrink Next Door, Handmaid's Tale, The Politician, Love Island, and many more!  We talk about how often music supervisors go for unknown indie artists vs. major artists; how artists and labels should prepare for sync licensing; whether he accepts submissions from artists directly; and how a music supervisor works with a showrunner.  Getting this kind of access to a music supervisor is extremely rare, and we were lucky to get a peek behind the curtain of this incredibly important part of sync licensing. Download our FREE GUIDE TO SYNC LICENSING at http://otherrecordlabels.com/sync
49:3123/08/2022
Sync Licensing: How to Get a Sync Deal

Sync Licensing: How to Get a Sync Deal

Download my free guide to sync licensing: http://otherrecordlabels.com/sync
23:1416/08/2022
Sync Licensing and Sync Agents

Sync Licensing and Sync Agents

In today’s interview I speak with LA sync agent, Tarik Bradford. We talk about the recent Kate Bush placement, how to find a sync agent to represent your record label’s catalog, plus we talk about the importance of watching the shows you are pitching your music for! Download my FREE GUIDE to Sync Licensing: http://otherrecordlabels.com/sync
01:11:5009/08/2022
Sync Licensing: Preparing Your Audio for Sync

Sync Licensing: Preparing Your Audio for Sync

22:4102/08/2022
Sync Licensing and Music Libraries

Sync Licensing and Music Libraries

In this episode, I interview Pierre-Michelle Levallois, the CEO of BAM Music. We talk all about how artists and record labels can find success by submitting to a music library and creating bespoke music for sync licensing.   ►► Download my FREE GUIDE to Sync Licensing http://OtherRecordLabels.com/sync
41:0726/07/2022
Sync Licensing Book Recommendations

Sync Licensing Book Recommendations

Download my FREE Guide to Sync Licensing - http://OtherRecordLabels.com/sync Thinking in Sync - http://geni.us/thinkinginsync Sync Licensing for Record Labels - http://geni.us/syncbook Everything You Need to Know About the Music Business -  http://geni.us/donaldpassman Tracks That Sync - http://geni.us/tracksthatsync Get all my book recommendations here: http://otherrecordlabels.com/books   In this episode, I have 5 books on the topic of #SyncLicensing for #RecordLabels that I want to share with you today!
12:2219/07/2022
Sync Licensing in Advertising

Sync Licensing in Advertising

Download our FREE GUIDE to Sync Licensing: otherrecordlabels.com/sync In this episode, I talk about sync licensing through advertising with Christine Leslie of TA2, Wan award-winning audio post-production & recording studio in Toronto. We discuss what advertisers are looking for, how to connect with a music supervisor, and what makes the perfect track! 
30:5812/07/2022
Sync Licensing: What is Sync Licensing?

Sync Licensing: What is Sync Licensing?

Download my FREE GUIDE to Sync Licensing here: http://otherrecordlabels.com/sync   Let's talk about sync licensing for record labels. What it is, what are the categories and how do you pitch your label's music?
15:3205/07/2022
The Don’t Do List

The Don’t Do List

This week is a special episode. If you are close to burning out with your record label, and need to take a break, I'm here to help. I recently had a bit of a breakdown, and I found creating a "don't do list" to be extremely helpful! Let's discuss! Download my free "don't do list" template here: https://otherrecordlabels.com/dont-do-list
11:2228/06/2022
Quick Win: Link-in-Bio Clean Up

Quick Win: Link-in-Bio Clean Up

Here's a quick win for you, something easy, free, and helpful you can do TODAY to help you grow your record label: Simply clean up your link-in-bio on Instagram and other social media platforms...   More QUICK WINS? Visit: http://otherrecordlabels.com/quickwins
03:3423/06/2022
Beggars Group (The National, Bartees Strange, The Smile)

Beggars Group (The National, Bartees Strange, The Smile)

In this episode, I speak with Nabil Ayers, the US head of Beggars Group (Matador, 4AD, Rough Trade). We talk all about his new book, whether music is nature or nurture, running massive indie labels, and how running a record label can be like facilitating an artist's life dream.  We unravel the compelling story of Nabil Ayers, a prominent figure in the global music industry and the Beggars Group. Get ready to be captivated as we delve into his new book, delving into his complex relationship (or lack thereof) with his father, the legendary Roy Ayers. In this thought-provoking conversation, Nabil shares his fascinating journey, from noticing the labels on MTV and records to his pivotal role in managing the Beggars Group's esteemed sublabels, including 4AD, Rough Trade, and Matador. Discover the thread that ties together these iconic bands and the visionary approach that has shaped their success. Delve into the profound responsibility of managing someone's life dream, whether it's striving for Grammy recognition or simply making ends meet. Nabil offers profound insights into the intricate world of record labels, highlighting how his experience running a record store has fostered empathy and a deep understanding of artists' needs. Prepare to be inspired as Nabil's unique perspective reveals the profound impact of music on our lives, transcending boundaries and connecting us on a profound level. This episode will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the symbiotic relationship between artists, record labels, and the passionate individuals who bring their dreams to life. Join us now for a captivating journey as we explore the multifaceted world of Nabil Ayers and the Beggars Group, a global record label that continues to shape the music industry. Grab a copy of Nabil's new book, "My Life in the Sunshine" here: http://otherrecordlabels.com/books  
49:5821/06/2022
How to Surprise Your Fans

How to Surprise Your Fans

►► Download our free #RecordLabel Toolkit - http://OtherRecordLabels.com/toolkit Get the full list of 10 things you can do to surprise your fans here: https://otherrecordlabels.com/how-to-surprise-your-fans Let's talk about 10 simple things you can do to surprise and delight the superfans of your #recordlabel
25:4514/06/2022
Quick Win: The Spotify Artist Pick

Quick Win: The Spotify Artist Pick

Here's a quick win for you, something easy, free, and helpful you can do TODAY to help you grow your record label: A simple way to utilize the Artist Pick section to help promote your label's newest release!   More QUICK WINS? Visit: http://otherrecordlabels.com/quickwins
03:3509/06/2022
Industry Insiders: Digital Advertising

Industry Insiders: Digital Advertising

Learn more about Auteur Research by visiting our Directory... http://otherrecordlabels.com/directory
01:10:1407/06/2022
Starting a Record Label YouTube Channel

Starting a Record Label YouTube Channel

Should you start a YouTube channel for your record label or for your artists? Let's discuss the power of YouTube, why you should consider starting one, and the 4 components of a great YouTube channel!  http://otherrecordlabels.com/youtube      
28:4331/05/2022
Quick Win: Twitter Profile Hack

Quick Win: Twitter Profile Hack

Here's a quick win for you, something easy, free, and helpful you can do TODAY to help you grow your record label: A simple tweet that will help music fans discover more of what your label has to offer!   More QUICK WINS? Visit: http://otherrecordlabels.com/quickwins
04:0826/05/2022
Hydration Records (Ryan Hylton, Adiah, Tobi A)

Hydration Records (Ryan Hylton, Adiah, Tobi A)

Join us for an illuminating episode as we dive into the world of Hydration Records, the UK's pioneering gospel label. In this relaxed and captivating conversation, Scott engages Derrick, the creative force behind the label, to uncover the secrets behind their remarkable growth. Discover how Hydration Records' niche focus has propelled them to new heights. With minimal competition and abundant space to thrive, Derrick shares why their unique position has sparked a devoted following. Prepare to be moved as they recount the heartfelt messages from fans who have discovered a genre of music they've never heard before. With over 200,000 YouTube subscribers, Hydration Records has become a trendsetter in their genre, captivating listeners with their fresh sound. Explore the power of micro niches as Derrick discusses how their platform promotes and encourages artists to create within this unique space. Featuring a range of genres including lo-fi, easy listening, rap, afrobeats, and Christian pop, Hydration Records is redefining the music landscape. Tune in to this laid-back episode and let the soothing melodies and captivating stories transport you to a world of musical discovery. Join us now and get ready to embrace the magic of Hydration Records, the cool and innovative UK gospel label. We talk about the idea of building a community/platform around a niche, sub-genre and promoting that community/niche before you try to promote your record label.  Check out our new Directory, with hand-picked services and industry folk who can help your record label with bio writing, legal questions, royalty accounting, mastering and more! http://otherrecordlabels.com/directory  
52:5724/05/2022
The Post-Release Strategy

The Post-Release Strategy

Learn more about how to plan a great post-release strategy for your newest album or single release! http://otherrecordlabels.com/postrelease  
15:2617/05/2022
Quick Win: Artist Birthdays

Quick Win: Artist Birthdays

Here's a quick win for you, something easy, free, and helpful you can do TODAY to help you grow your record label!   More QUICK WINS? Visit: http://otherrecordlabels.com/quickwins
03:5815/05/2022
Minaret Records (Won Pound, Nicole McCabe, Logan Kane)

Minaret Records (Won Pound, Nicole McCabe, Logan Kane)

In this episode, I speak with Egyptian-American artist, Yousef Hilmy from an amazing jazz label called, Minaret Records! We talk about what the term DIY means in jazz music, and what makes an artist someone you'd want to have on your label!  Check out our new Directory, with hand-picked services and industry folk who can help your record label with bio writing, legal questions, royalty accounting, mastering and more! http://otherrecordlabels.com/directory  
01:05:1510/05/2022