Other Record Labels

🎙️ Are You Annoying Your Audience? (Hint: Probably Not!) Presented by Supertape - http://supertape.com As indie artists and record label owners, it’s natural to worry about overwhelming your audience with posts, emails, and promotions. But are you really being annoying? In this episode of Other Record Labels, host Scott Orr dives into the fear of over-communicating and why it’s likely holding you back. Discover: Why staying visible is your job as a label or artist.The “seven interactions” rule in marketing and how persistence pays off.How to ensure your outreach is strategic and aligned with your brand. This episode is packed with practical advice to help you confidently share your work without second-guessing yourself. Don’t let self-doubt stop you—your next post might just be the one that converts a fan! 📢 Listen now and keep building your audience. www.otherrecordlabels.com

I am THRILLED to announce a brand new podcast coming to the Other Record Labels network called, "For the Love of Vinyl" Starting January 23rd, we will be launching this new show in partnership with A to Z Media (http://atozmedia.com) SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEW SHOW: http://otherrecordlabels.com/fortheloveofvinyl Over the past seven years, Other Record Labels has explored every corner of running a record label—from starting one to promoting artists and everything in between. Along the way, we’ve also ventured into industry-adjacent topics like sync licensing, publishing, PR, and vinyl. But there’s one topic that gets more engagement and excitement than anything else: vinyl records. We’ve talked about making, designing, testing, selling, and collecting records—and we know many of you, like us, are passionate about the world of vinyl. Whether it’s hunting for rare finds, debating the merits of hype stickers and obi strips, or just enjoying your collection, vinyl isn’t just a format—it’s a culture. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce our new podcast: For the Love of Vinyl. Launching January 23, 2025, this monthly show dives deep into the art and culture of vinyl records. From the environmental impact of vinyl production to turntable tips and everything in between, this show is for fans, collectors, musicians, and label owners alike. Whether you’re a lifelong vinyl enthusiast, a budding collector, or simply love the aesthetic of records on your shelf, For the Love of Vinyl is for you. ✨ What to Expect: Monthly episodes starting January 23, 2025Available on the Other Record Labels podcast feedA celebration of all things vinyl How to Listen: Search For the Love of Vinyl wherever you get your podcasts and subscribe today to ensure you don’t miss an episode! This exciting new podcast is made possible by our friends at A to Z Media, the trusted partner for custom vinyl, CDs, and merch. If you’re ready to create something unforgettable for your next release, visit atozmedia.com. We can’t wait to explore the magic of vinyl with you. Thanks for being part of this incredible journey!   SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEW SHOW: http://otherrecordlabels.com/fortheloveofvinyl

How to Keep Your Album Alive After Release Day Presented by Supertape - http://supertape.com   Release day may come and go, but your album’s journey doesn’t have to end there. In this episode Scott shares three actionable strategies to help indie record labels and artists extend the life of their music long after the release date. Learn how to: Take inventory of your promotional assets for better planning.Strategically schedule your promotional efforts to maintain excitement.Keep creating new content to engage your audience and give your album fresh momentum. With practical advice and analogies (like how promoting an album is like stoking a campfire), this episode is perfect for anyone looking to maximize the impact of their releases. 📈 Get inspired to keep the fire burning—listen now!

YouTube isn't just for viral videos—it's a powerful platform for indie record labels to connect with fans, showcase their artists, and grow their audience. PRESENTED BY SUPERTAPE: http://supertape.com In this episode, we break down why every label should consider investing in a YouTube channel, from its role in discovery (hello, Google search!) to its growing slice of the music streaming pie. We’ll guide you through: ✅ Choosing between an artist channel or a label channel ✅ Creating compelling content like music videos, live performances, and behind-the-scenes moments ✅ Building a consistent posting schedule to keep your audience engaged ✅ Setting clear objectives—whether it's SEO, marketing, or turning YouTube into a primary listening destination If you're ready to unlock YouTube’s potential for your label, this episode has the tips you need to get started! Learn more here: http://otherrecordlabels.com/youtube

In this episode, Scott sits down with Sam Richardson, the founder of Feel It Records and Feel It Record Shop. Sam shares the incredible story of how a passion for archiving rare punk recordings turned into a successful indie label, highlighting the challenges and rewards of bringing forgotten music back to life.   Presented by Hellbender Vinyl - http://geni.us/hellbendervinyl   They discuss the evolution of Feel It Records, the nuances of reissues versus archival releases, and the lessons learned from over a decade in the vinyl industry. Sam also talks about his leap into opening a brick-and-mortar record store in Cincinnati, reflecting on how it complements his label and reshapes his approach to music curation. Whether you're a vinyl collector, a label owner, or someone dreaming of starting your own music venture, this episode is packed with insights about passion, community, and the art of discovery.

In this episode of Other Record Labels, we break down how indie record labels can distribute music to streaming platforms. Presented by Hellbender Vinyl - http://geni.us/hellbendervinyl Learn the essentials of navigating major streaming sites, leveraging Bandcamp, and exploring noninteractive platforms like Pandora. We discuss the role of digital distributors, how to choose the right one, and the importance of barcodes and ISRCs. You'll also get tips on preparing assets, from mastering audio and designing artwork to curating metadata. Dive into the financial side, including how payments work and sharing revenue with artists. Finally, explore strategies for landing your music on algorithmic, editorial, and user-generated playlists. Whether you're new to music distribution or looking to refine your process, this episode is packed with insights to help your label succeed in the digital era!   Get More Resources Here: http://otherrecordlabels.com/streaming

In this episode, we dive into the world of cassette tapes with Romain Boudruche, founder of We Are Rewind, a company reviving the retro charm of cassette players with a modern twist. Presented by Hellbender Vinyl - http://geni.us/hellbender Romain shares the inspiration behind the venture, sparked by nostalgia for physical music formats and a lack of high-quality, affordable cassette players in the market. Inspired by his experiences with mixtapes and the resurgence of cassette culture, Romain set out to create a high-quality device that bridges the gap between past and present. We discuss the challenges of designing a modern cassette player, from integrating Bluetooth functionality to achieving the perfect blend of retro aesthetic and contemporary usability. Romain also details the feedback from customers, who range from purists valuing the tactile and ritualistic experience of cassettes to newcomers intrigued by the affordability and novelty of the format. Through thoughtful design and a commitment to quality, We Are Rewind has captured the hearts of music fans worldwide, offering a tangible music experience in an increasingly digital landscape.

In this episode, we dive deep into the pros and cons of pressing vinyl records as an indie artist or label owner. Vinyl can be a stunning, high-ticket item that fans love to collect and display, offering endless creative opportunities—from unique label designs and vibrant vinyl colors to custom jackets and inserts. The resurgence of vinyl suggests it has a bright future, making it an appealing way to connect with fans on a tangible level. Presented by Hellbender Vinyl - http://geni.us/hellbender But there’s no denying the challenges that come with vinyl production. Manufacturing costs are high, with minimum order quantities often around 200-300 units to make the economics work. Prices for materials and shipping have surged, meaning a $25 record might now cost $40 or more, squeezing fans’ budgets even further. Plus, boring, uninspired vinyl designs simply don’t sell in today’s competitive market. We’ll also unpack the logistics involved—from audio mastering to artwork design to test pressings—revealing why vinyl is a complex endeavor for any indie artist or label. If you're considering vinyl for your next release, tune in to hear an honest breakdown of the costs, creative perks, and potential pitfalls, so you can decide if this classic format is the right fit for your music. RESOURCES FOR VINYL: http://otherrecordlabels.com/vinyl

In this episode, I chat with Dom, founder of Sunday Dinner Records, about his journey from music fan to label owner. Presented by Smart Noise (http://geni.us/smartnoise) Dom shares how he builds a close-knit, family-like community with his artists and the thought process behind his label’s food-inspired name. We dive into his passion for quality over quantity, why he still believes in physical releases like cassettes and vinyl, and his vision for the future of Sunday Dinner. This episode is all about indie spirit, genuine connections, and the art of creating timeless music.

In this episode, we dive deep into the resurgence of cassette tapes and what they mean for indie artists and record labels. We explore the unique advantages that cassettes bring to the table, including their low production costs, creative potential, and the charm of physical media in an increasingly digital world. Presented by SMART NOISE - http://geni.us/smartnoise For labels, cassettes offer a lower barrier to entry, allowing for smaller runs, easier shipping, and a distinct DIY aesthetic with customizable J-cards, colorful tapes, and unique vertical artwork. We also discuss the nostalgia factor, which drives cassette culture, and how even big names like Taylor Swift and Billie Eilish have adopted the format. However, cassettes come with their own challenges. Margins can be tight, as keeping the price below $10 while managing production costs can be tough. Few functional tape players exist, and the format lacks the mainstream retail support enjoyed by vinyl. Moreover, the dual-sided nature of cassettes adds creative hurdles for artists, forcing them to balance song lengths across both sides. While cassettes may not yet have reached vinyl’s level of popularity, they offer a distinct space for collectors and artists alike. Grab my FREE GUIDE to making cassette tapes: http://otherrecordlabels.com/tapes Join us as we explore whether cassette tapes are worth the investment for indie artists and labels—and what the future holds for this nostalgic, yet potentially reborn, format.

In this episode, I sit down with Zena, founder of Root Rot Records, an independent label championing community and creativity.  Presented by Smart Noise - http://geni.us/smartnoise Zena shares their experience navigating vinyl production and how tapes have been a unique and growing part of their label’s offerings. We also dive into the clever marketing tactics like the “try before you buy” QR code stickers on their tapes. We explore the meaning behind the name Root Rot Records and discuss how the label’s mission is more than just about releasing music—it’s about creating a home for marginalized communities. Zena talks about how fostering compassion, community, and inclusivity is at the heart of the label's ethos. Rootrotrecords.bandcamp.com

In this episode, we tackle the big question every aspiring indie label owner has asked: "How much does it cost to start a record label?"   Presented by Smart Noise - http://geni.us/smartnoise Forget the sky-high figures you might find online – we're breaking it down in a realistic, no-nonsense way for one-person operations, DIY labels, and anyone looking to start small. From branding and legal costs to subscriptions and vinyl pressing, we’ll walk you through a practical budget of around $2,650, with tips on how to scale from there. Whether you're reissuing your own music, releasing a friend's band, or dreaming of creating a community-driven label, this episode gives you a clear path forward. Plus, we share how you can save money without cutting corners – and what you shouldn't skimp on. Listen in and get ready to launch your label the right way! Grab a budget template here: http://otherrecordlabels.com/budget

This week, it's an INDUSTRY INSIDERS episode! I sit down with Eric Weiner of The Wild Honey Pie, a company renowned for creating video content and music videos for indie artists and labels. Together, we dive into the evolving landscape of music videos in the indie music scene in 2024. Presented by SMART NOISE - http://smart-noise.com We explore the apparent contradiction of music videos losing relevance in an era where video content dominates platforms like YouTube, while music videos seem to have become the "unwanted stepchild" of the video content family. Eric shares his thoughts on why streaming giants like Spotify and Apple haven't pushed music videos as aggressively as they've embraced video content for podcasts. We also address the practical side of video creation, including the high costs and challenges indie labels face in producing them. Eric shares insights into how some genres—like alternative rock and punk—thrive visually, while others may struggle to translate their sound into a visual medium. Check out The Wild Honey Pie: http://thewildhoneypie.com

10 Tips for Running a Successful Record Label Sale In this episode, we dive into why regular sales on platforms like Bandcamp and your label’s webstore are more than just a way to make a quick buck—they’re an essential tool for keeping your label top-of-mind with fans. Presented by Infinite Catalog - http://geni.us/infinitecatalog We share 10 actionable tips on how to plan, promote, and execute a successful record label sale, from setting up your strategy to offering exclusive perks and creating an irresistible campaign. Whether you’re gearing up for a New Year sale or planning ahead for the next season, this episode will help you boost engagement, build your brand, and generate revenue. Tune in and get ready to maximize your next sale!

In this episode, Scott sits down with Harry Towell, the creative force behind Whitelabrecs, to explore the art of running an indie record label with a unique approach. Harry shares the inspiration behind his label’s name and its focus on blending vintage vinyl aesthetics with modern CD formats. From hand-burning early releases to creating beautifully packaged vinyl-style CDs, Harry has built a label that values both music and physical media as collectible art. Join us as we discuss the challenges of producing physical releases, the resurgence of CDs in the ambient music world, and Harry's philosophy of supporting emerging artists with lower-risk formats.  Presented by Infinite Catalog - http://geni.us/infinitecatalog

Starting a Record Label for Your Own Music: Why It’s a Smart Move Presented by Infinite Catalog (http://infinitecatalog.com/otherrecordlabels) Ever wondered if you can launch a record label just to release your own music? In this episode, we dive into one of the most common questions indie artists ask: Can I start a record label for myself or my band? Spoiler alert: Not only can you, but it's a path taken by some of the biggest names in music history. Join us as we explore three models for artist-run labels, from "faking it till you make it" to building a roster around your projects. You'll hear real-world examples from artists like Sufjan Stevens, Wilco, Fat Mike, and more, who started their own labels for creative control and artistic freedom. Whether you're thinking of releasing just your own music or growing into a full-fledged label, this episode offers insights and inspiration to get you started! Download my FREE Record Label Toolkit: http://otherrecordlabels.com/toolkit Tune in to learn how your DIY label can give you the confidence, control, and opportunity to shape your musical career.

In this episode, TT The Artist, founder of Club Queen Records, shares her vision of creating a label that uplifts women, especially women of color, in genres like hip-hop, pop, dance, and R&B. She emphasizes the importance of making "music that feels good" and discusses how building a platform for underrepresented artists has been a strategic success. Presented by Infinite Catalog - http://infinitecatalog.com/otherrecordlabels TT also delves into the importance of branding, her love for vibrant, colorful art, and the role of sync licensing in her label's music strategy. Whether through music, art, or film, TT believes in creating a space where creativity thrives. Listen to the full episode to learn more about TT’s journey, her advice for new label owners, and her thoughts on balancing multiple creative outlets.

In this episode of Other Record Labels, we're diving into the essentials of A&R for indie record labels. Presented by Hellbender Vinyl: http://hellbendervinyl.com Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your approach, we’ll cover everything from finding and signing new talent to building strong, lasting relationships with your artists. Learn how to scout the right musicians, manage their expectations, and create a label environment that fosters creativity and success. Tune in to discover the A&R strategies that will help your label—and your artists—reach new heights! Learn More: http://otherrecordlabels.com/aandr

Labelmates is coming back starting September 10, 2024 at 1PM Eastern! A 6-week intensive small group for new and soon-to-be record label owners! Apply Now: http://otherrecordlabels.com/labelmates

Starting a record label is a thrilling venture, but the legal landscape can be daunting. In this episode, we dive into the five most common legal questions every new record label owner needs to consider. Presented by Hellbender Vinyl - http://hellbendervinyl.com From whether you should register an LLC or trademark your label name, to creating recording contracts, owning masters, and understanding copyrights—we’ve got you covered. Join me as I share insights from my own experience and advice from industry professionals, helping you make informed decisions as you build your label. Tune in and get equipped with the knowledge you need to protect your music business! Learn More: http://otherrecordlabels.com/legaladvice