Other Record Labels Blog

Weekly episodes to help you build and grow your record label.

Our record label blog features podcast interviews with some of the best independent record labels, quick tips for record labels, and other helpful resources to help you make your record label more effective and efficient!

How MySpace Changed Music
Interviews Scott Orr Interviews Scott Orr

How MySpace Changed Music

Explore the transformative impact of MySpace Music with author Michael Tedder in this insightful interview. From indie artist breakthroughs to industry shifts, discover how MySpace changed the music game. Dive deep into its rise, fall, and potential resurgence. #MySpace #MusicIndustry #IndieArtists

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Boosting Your Vinyl Sales at Retail (Interview with Colemine Records)
Interviews Scott Orr Interviews Scott Orr

Boosting Your Vinyl Sales at Retail (Interview with Colemine Records)

Join Scott as he sits down with Terry Cole, the owner and co-founder of Colemine Records and Plaid Room Records in the Cincinnati area, for an insightful discussion on boosting physical vinyl sales. Dive into the world of vinyl marketing tactics, from the often overlooked power of "hype stickers" to the innovation of QR codes for sampling music. Discover the significance of color vinyl variants and why investing in the overall package of records is crucial for labels. Explore topics such as branding, the unique sales dynamics of 7" records, and the intricacies of launching a subsidiary label. Whether you're a seasoned label owner or an aspiring artist, this episode of Other Record Labels offers invaluable insights into maximizing the retail potential of vinyl records.

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Interview with Deep Down Dirty Records!
Interviews Scott Orr Interviews Scott Orr

Interview with Deep Down Dirty Records!

Initially rooted in classical music, Maya shifted her focus to rave music and established her label. She kickstarted her venture through a radio show, highlighting artists deserving of more recognition.

In our conversation, Maya emphasizes the pivotal role record labels play in guiding artists towards excellence. She believes labels should act as champions, holding artists accountable for creating exceptional records and tracks, ultimately helping them reach their full potential.

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Interview with enjou
Interviews Scott Orr Interviews Scott Orr

Interview with enjou

Discover insights into the impact of streaming on indie music labels and artists. Dive into the nuances of passive streaming, playlist manipulation, and maintaining creative integrity in the digital age. Learn how enjou label navigates these challenges and the strategic decisions behind their recent rebranding. Gain valuable perspectives on the evolving music industry landscape in this engaging episode of "Other Record Labels" with host Scott Orr.

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Music Industry News - February 2024
Interviews Scott Orr Interviews Scott Orr

Music Industry News - February 2024

In this episode of Other Record Labels, I sit down with Amy Brady from Allegedly Records, an indie label that's making waves in the punk scene.

We dive into the challenges of spelling "Allegedly" and explore their unique approach to being a marketing and promo-first record label.

Amy sheds light on the label's innovative subscription box, "Punk Box," and we discuss the ins and outs of running a punk indie record label. Tune in for a candid conversation about the grit and grind behind the scenes of Allegedly Records.

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Interview with Allegedly Records
Interviews Scott Orr Interviews Scott Orr

Interview with Allegedly Records

In this episode of Other Record Labels, I sit down with Amy Brady from Allegedly Records, an indie label that's making waves in the punk scene.

We dive into the challenges of spelling "Allegedly" and explore their unique approach to being a marketing and promo-first record label.

Amy sheds light on the label's innovative subscription box, "Punk Box," and we discuss the ins and outs of running a punk indie record label. Tune in for a candid conversation about the grit and grind behind the scenes of Allegedly Records.

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Interview with Vinyl Moon
Interviews Scott Orr Interviews Scott Orr

Interview with Vinyl Moon

I interview Brandon Bogajewicz of Vinyl Moon, a unique mixtape vinyl subscription service that has just celebrated its 100th edition.

Discover the meticulous curation process behind each edition, where Brandon shares insights into the challenges and joys of finding new designers, songs, and creating a distinct experience every month. Uncover the secrets behind pushing the limits of pressing plants and experimenting with groundbreaking artwork.

Delve into the psychology of vinyl enthusiasts as Brandon reflects on what he's learned about people's appetite for both vinyl and music over the past 100 months. From bare bones releases to extravagant, colorful packages, learn how fans respond to the spectrum of vinyl presentations and the value-added by creative touches.

As the conversation unfolds, Brandon shares his thoughts on the vinyl industry's trajectory, discussing market adoption, increased competition among pressing plants, and the overall impact on artists and labels. Gain valuable insights into the world of membership clubs, exploring whether it's a viable option for labels with small, dedicated fan bases.

Presented by Vinyl Moon http://vinylmoon.co

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Interview with Reach Records
Interviews Scott Orr Interviews Scott Orr

Interview with Reach Records

Discover how the city's identity influences Reach Records and the unique challenges and opportunities that come with being a Christian label. Explore the balance between niche appeal and mainstream aspirations and find out if breaking into the mainstream is a strategic goal for labels like Reach Records.

Join the conversation as we explore Reach Records' relationship with the broader Christian music community and how they stand out from the traditional adult contemporary Christian radio scene. Learn about the label's history, Dee Diaz's journey into the music scene, and why record labels like Reach Records are essential players, even in an era critical of the industry.

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Interview with Stereo Ferment
Interviews Scott Orr Interviews Scott Orr

Interview with Stereo Ferment

Did you know that YouTube started out as a dating website? And so did Instagramm! In fact, there are tons of odd origin stories out there…. Pixar made computers, Dyson made wheelbarrows, and The Beatles were a cover band…

These giants pivoted their way to becoming global phenomena, proving that adaptation can be the key to success.

This week, we bring you a real-life story of transformation - Stereo Ferment, a Canadian record label. Initially, they set out to host DJ parties with a twist – fermenting food. However, as you might guess, that plan didn't quite hit the right note. But like many great businesses, they didn't give up; they pivoted on the fly, evolving into one of my favorite record labels today!

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Interview with Skyline Records
Interviews Scott Orr Interviews Scott Orr

Interview with Skyline Records

Join host Scott Orr on this episode of Other Record Labels as he chats with Will from Skyline Records, a Nashville-based record label. They dive into the world of modern bluegrass and music law. Discover the backstory of Skyline Records and how they navigate the competitive Nashville scene. Will shares insights into the label's genre preferences and his role as an advocate for bluegrass. The episode also explores the challenges and opportunities of promoting historical genres, and Will's dual roles as a lawyer and label owner. Tune in for valuable advice on legal aspects in the music industry and cost-efficient solutions for indie labels. Don't miss this enlightening discussion about music and the law in the heart of Nashville.

Presented by Squarespace. http://otherrecordlabels.com/squarespace

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Interview with Bud Tapes
Interviews Scott Orr Interviews Scott Orr

Interview with Bud Tapes

In this episode of Other Record Labels, Scott shares in an insightful conversation with Emmet, the mastermind behind BudTapes, a record label based in the Pacific Northwest city of Portland, Oregon. 

Scott and Emmet explore the intriguing history of BudTapes, tracing its evolution from a mere idea to a thriving and influential label. Discover the label's distinct criteria for selecting releases that earn the "Bud Tape" distinction, and explore whether the label consciously encapsulates the essence of the Pacific Northwest in its music.

 This episode is presented by Hypeddit - Learn more at http://otherrecordlabels.com/hypeddit

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Interview with ProgRock.com Essentials
Interviews Scott Orr Interviews Scott Orr

Interview with ProgRock.com Essentials

In this episode, we're diving into the world of record labels with a unique focus. Our guest, Mark from ProgRock.com Essentials, takes us through the evolution of their label, from a blog and radio show to a full-fledged record label dedicated to celebrating progressive rock. We discuss the power and responsibility of genre-centric labels, explore the history of progressive rock, and uncover the passionate community that surrounds it. Tune in to discover the magic behind ProgRock.com Essentials and the captivating genre it represents. Available now on your favorite podcast platform!

Presented by Hypeddit (http://otherrecordlabels.com/hypeddit

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Interview with Winspear Records
Interviews Scott Orr Interviews Scott Orr

Interview with Winspear Records

In this interview with Winspear Records, an indie record label, we discuss their unique approach to releasing a label compilation record and the strategy behind it. They share how they prioritize the aesthetic and design of their releases, including the decision to press the compilation to black vinyl to complement the artwork.

We delve into the history of Winspear Records, which dates back to 2015, and explore the label's guiding principles and curatorial process. The label's meticulous art direction and overall aesthetic are a deliberate choice, reflecting their commitment to high-quality design.

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Interview with Stereofox
Interviews Scott Orr Interviews Scott Orr

Interview with Stereofox

In this episode, Scott interviews the indie record label, Stereofox. While the label is known for its curated Spotify playlists, Scott discovers there's more to the company than just curation.

The interview delves into various topics such as the label's perspective on SubmitHub, the challenges of providing feedback, the label's origin story, and their unique approach to revenue streams. Listeners will learn about the various services Stereofox offers, including publishing and agency services, as well as their decision to produce 10" vinyl.

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Interview with Flower Sounds
Interviews Scott Orr Interviews Scott Orr

Interview with Flower Sounds

The crazy things the record label, Flower Sounds have done to sell records… In this episode, we talk about a dozen unique marketing and promotional ideas that Flower Sounds have experimented with over the years…

Flower Sounds is a boutique music label that only releases runs of 100.

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Interview with OFFAIR Records
Interviews Scott Orr Interviews Scott Orr

Interview with OFFAIR Records

Join me as I explore how OFFAIR cultivates an intimate, memorable experience for both artists and fans through unique live shows, and their mission to showcase music that goes beyond the familiar sonic territories. This podcast episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to discover the power of intentional listening and the art of music curation.

Bringing background music into the foreground with OFFAIR Records!

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Interview with Heart Dance Records
Interviews Scott Orr Interviews Scott Orr

Interview with Heart Dance Records

Talking about how to sign artists who match your label’s ethos with Heart Dance Records.

Heart Dance Records is a woman-owned and operated instrumental label with a mission to, through their collective artists, create peaceful music for well-being to help listeners relax, reduce stress, focus, inspire, grieve, heal, meditate and calm.

Some of the takeaways from today's interview include how to work with artists who have integrity, who work hard on their careers, and who are in line with your record label’s ethos and mission statement!

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