Other Record Labels

Why do people really start record labels? For some, it’s not always about money, streams, or press coverage. A lot of times, it’s about fulfillment, legacy, and the simple joy of working with great music. In this episode of Other Record Labels, I share why I believe labels still matter and why so many indie label owners take the leap. From retirees starting labels as their “second act,” to artists who just want to build community, this conversation is both inspirational and practical. I also talk about our upcoming Labelmates Core Sessions Cohort, a 6-week program I’m hosting to help indie label owners find clarity, confidence, and fulfillment while building their own version of success. Register for Labelmates: http://otherrecordlabels.com/register Labelmates - Fall 2025 Cohort | Oct 21 - Nov 25 | Every Tuesday at 4:00PM Eastern

In this episode, Scott Orr explores The New Record Label Model—a way of running a label that’s actually rooted in the oldest history of the music business. Presented by LANDR - [landr.com/otherrecordlabels] From early companies that sold machines first and music second, to today’s indie labels building sustainable, multi-faceted businesses, Scott makes the case for why the healthiest, most innovative labels are no longer “just record labels.” Based on his new book Why We Still Need Record Labels, this episode is both a celebration and a roadmap for indie label owners who want to thrive in today’s industry. GRAB THE NEW BOOK: http://geni.us/whyweneedrecordlabels

“Don’t be embarrassed if you don’t know the process—just ask questions. That’s how I learned everything.” Presented by A to Z Media (http://atozmedia.com) In this episode, we sit down with Patrick from A to Z Media, one of the most trusted names in vinyl pressing and packaging. Patrick pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to bring music from digital files to a physical record you can hold in your hands. We talk about sequencing an album for vinyl, the science and craftsmanship behind plating and pressing, and the hundreds of skilled hands that touch a record before it reaches a fan’s turntable. Patrick also shares his own journey as a lifelong collector, including the wild story of rescuing a vintage Wurlitzer jukebox off a Los Angeles street.

In this episode, I share some updates on the podcast and community, including the release of my new book Why We (Still) Need Record Labels, which explores the value and evolution of indie labels today. Order Here: http://otherrecordlabels.com/book I also talk about the upcoming Labelmates cohort, a small group program for aspiring label owners. (otherrecordlabels.com/labelmates) Special thanks to our friends at LANDR for partnering with Other Record Labels - Sign up and get 50% OFF your subscription here: http://landr.com/otherrecordlabels

Hey friends, Scott here, just wanted to pop on an intro this cool episode of a great podcast you may not be familiar with. Our friends at A to Z Media – Have a podcast of their own. And if you like Other Record Labels or you like For the Love of Vinyl – you’ll love Bespoken. A podcast by a to Z media that Dives into the world of independent music and physical media culture. In this episode of BESPOKEN, host Scott Pollack welcomes Ken Shipley, co-founder of the influential reissue label Numero Group. Known for its meticulous packaging, deep archival research, and genre-spanning catalog, Numero has spent over two decades preserving overlooked artists and forgotten underground music scenes, from soul and funk to punk, post-hardcore, early emo, and beyond. This conversation centers on Sequoia, Numero’s ambitious new 7-inch box set documenting the first decade of American emo. Described by Ken as a “30-year sequel” to his 1995 compilation Eucalyptus, Sequoia is both a love letter and historical archive, featuring 27 vinyl records, a 136-page hardcover book, and packaging that faithfully recreates the tactile, handmade spirit of ’90s DIY culture. Ken shares insights into Numero’s creative process, how physical media becomes a vehicle for storytelling, and why their mission goes beyond nostalgia—it's about preserving cultural memory. This rare behind-the-scenes conversation reveals the values, vision, and detail-driven ethos of one of the most respected archival labels in the industry. A to Z Media is proud to have worked with Numero Group on countless vinyl releases, boxed sets, merch, and, of course, Sequoia. Whether you're a fan of emo, punk, or the art of vinyl packaging, this episode is a must-listen. Learn more or order Sequoia: https://numerogroup.com/products/sequoia For 30 years, A to Z Media has been the trusted manufacturing partner for artists and labels (major and independent) producing high-quality vinyl, CDs, cassettes, books, and merchandise. Start your next project at: https://www.atozmedia.com SUBSCRIBE TO BESPOKEN PODCAST: https://bespokenpodcast.podbean.com/ BESPOKEN PODCAST: https://www.youtube.com/@AtoZMediaInc

There’s one record label the world doesn’t have yet—the one only you can create. In this episode, I’ll share why the most successful indie labels today are the ones that are hyper-specific, intentionally niched, and built around their founder’s unique obsessions. You’ll learn how to uncover the “secret ingredients” that make your label stand out—whether you’re brand new or you’ve been running a label for years but still feel undefined. Presented by LANDR - [landr.com/otherrecordlabels] We’ll explore how combining your unique passions—musical and non-musical—creates a one-of-a-kind identity for your label, and why being oddly specific is the best way to thrive in today’s music industry. Plus, I’ll talk about my new book Why We (Still) Need Record Labels (out this week!). If you’ve been waiting for a sign to finally start (or reimagine) your record label—this is it. 👉 Order the new book: otherrecordlabels.com/book 👉 Apply for Labelmates: otherrecordlabels.com/labelmates

In today’s episode, we’re tackling a bold claim: record labels are obsolete. With home studios, DIY distribution, and powerful marketing tools, artists can now write, record, release, and promote their music all on their own. So… are labels officially irrelevant? Presented by LANDR [landr.com/otherrecordlabels] We break it down into three common reasons people say we don’t need record labels anymore: Artists can do it all themselves. The old gatekeepers are gone. The art comes from artists, not labels. But here’s the twist—just because artists can do everything doesn’t mean they want to. Many crave teammates, collaborators, and communities that labels provide. And while the industry has changed, labels still offer something algorithms and DIY platforms can’t: curation, creativity, and connection. Tune in as we explore why the role of labels may be shifting—not disappearing—and how indie labels can thrive in this new era of music.

“Don’t just release your music willy-nilly—give it its own day in the sun.” Releasing music isn’t just about finishing the recording—it’s about picking the right release date. In this episode, we break down three essential factors every indie artist and label should consider before choosing when to release a single, EP, or album. Presented by LANDR - [http://landr.com/otherrecordlabels] From planning during the recording process, to aligning with the right season, to making sure it works for your team and fans—we’ll help you set your music up for success. MORE HELP HERE: http://otherrecordlabels.com/newrelease

“It isn’t luck, it’s tenacity. It’s going to as many sales as you can, and always asking if there are records.” In this episode of For the Love of Vinyl, Scott chats with Jay Clarke, owner of Time Capsule, a small collectibles shop in southern Ontario and the face of a beloved vinyl-hunting YouTube channel. Presented by A to Z Media [atozmedia.com] Jay shares his decades of experience digging through thrift stores, garage sales, yard sales, church bazaars, antique shops, and even Facebook Marketplace in search of hidden vinyl gems. They explore how the golden age of cheap records in the 1990s has given way to a more competitive, knowledge-driven hunt today. From “bread and butter” classics like Thriller and Rumours to the thrill of stumbling on rare reggae and prog records, Jay explains why persistence, curiosity, and a bit of luck are the real keys to finding great vinyl. Along the way, he offers practical tips for collectors, reflects on the cultural comeback of records in the 2000s, and shares some of his wildest finds—including grabbing three boxes of avant-garde LPs off a street curb on garbage day. Check out Jay's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@timecapsuledunnville5133 Follow Jay on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/timecapsuledunnville/?hl=en

Submitting your music to blogs, playlists, or radio can be overwhelming... and often discouraging. In this episode, Scott shares five essential steps to take before you pitch your music to press, curators, and influencers. Learn how to stay organized, build the right list, craft simple pitches, and avoid common mistakes that keep your music from being heard. Presented by LANDR - landr.com/otherrecordlabels

"You’re not gonna stop, are you? This isn’t just a career — it’s in your DNA." Burned out? Cynical? Ready to give up on music? In this episode, I’m sharing five real-world truths that might change your mind — or at least give you a healthier perspective before you walk away. We’ll talk about why record labels are like trumpets, the surprising power of yet (just like the meme), how hiatuses can actually be healthy, why the industry has always been hard, and the real reason most of us can’t quit even when we try. Presented by LANR - [landr.com/otherrecordlabels]

Presented by LANDR - http://landr.com/otherrecordlabels In this episode, we dive into the growing world of cassette tapes and share five essential tips you must know before pressing play on your first tape release. From manufacturing small runs to prepping your audio, designing artwork, selling online or in stores, and making your cassettes irresistible to fans—we cover it all. Whether you're doing it DIY or working with a manufacturer, this episode will help you make the most of your cassette release. LEARN MORE: http://otherrecordlabels.com/tapes

So many indie artists and label owners get stuck trying to pick the "perfect" digital distributor… but it doesn’t need to be that hard. In this episode, Scott shares 5 important things to keep in mind when choosing a digital distributor—including a real cautionary tale about what can happen when you choose the wrong one. This episode is sponsored by LANDR, a digital distributor and longtime supporter of this podcast. Learn more at landr.com/otherrecordlabels Topics Covered: Are they reputable? Subscription vs. pay-per-release models What tools and features do they offer? Why you should run a test release Why this decision isn’t worth overthinking

In this episode, we talk all about Turntables and how modern turntable technology has contributed to our vinyl obsession. I sit down with Edward Forth of Audio-Technica to explore the brand’s pivotal role in the vinyl resurgence over the past two decades. From entry-level turntables to high-end gear, Edward shares insights on how accessibility, affordability, and a commitment to sound quality have helped generations of music fans fall in love with vinyl. We discuss the natural progression of a vinyl collector’s journey, Audio-Technica’s historic dedication to analog sound, and the lasting impact of their iconic models like the LP120. Whether you're new to vinyl or deep into upgrade territory, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the gear that keeps the grooves spinning. Presented by A to Z Media - (http://atozmedia.com) Learn More: http://otherrecordlabels.com/fortheloveofvinyl

Before you hit send on that email to your dream label, take a moment to listen to this episode. We break down five important things artists should consider when submitting music to record labels—what to do, what to avoid, and how to stand out. This episode is also helpful for indie label owners who want to improve how they review submissions. Presented by LANDR → landr.com/otherrecordlabels

Listen to This Before You Sign a New Artist to Your Record Label Before you jump into your next artist signing, take 20 minutes to think it through. In this episode, I walk you through 5 key things every indie record label should consider before signing a new artist. These are hard-learned lessons from 15 years of running a label — and yeah, I’ve broken all 5 of these rules before. PRESENTED BY LANDR at otherrecordlabels.com/landr #LANDR #recordlabel

Listen to This Before You Make Vinyl Records Presented by LANDR – http://otherrecordlabels.com/landr Thinking about pressing vinyl for your next release? Before you commit to the cost, time, and effort, this episode gives you the real talk about making vinyl records as an indie artist or record label. Scott shares practical, experience-based info on vanity pressings to realistic sales projections, side lengths to packaging ideas—this is everything you need to know before you go to the plant. 🎯 Grab the FREE Vinyl Resource Guide: http://otherrecordlabels.com/vinyl

Here's a sneak peek into our upcoming Summer Series... "Listen to This!" Grab 40% OFF The Record Label Academy - http://otherrecordlabels.com/academy Use the coupon code: HALFYEAR40 Presented by LANDR - http://otherrecordlabels.com/landr

Listen to This Before You Start a Record Label Presented by LANDR - http://otherrecordlabels.com/landr Thinking about launching your own indie record label? Before you jump in, this episode offers five essential tips that will set you up for long-term success. Scott Orr shares honest, actionable advice for anyone thinking about starting a label—from delaying your launch and doing proper research, to keeping your plans secret (for now!) and breaking all the traditional rules. If you're serious about building something sustainable, this is your starting line. Download my FREE Record Label Toolkit: http://otherrecordlabels.com/toolkit

Half Year Mark – Rest, Refresh, Ready We're officially halfway through the year — can you believe it? Somewhere between December 31st and January 1st lies this unassuming mid-point... and while it may not be a real holiday, it is a great time to hit the reset button. Presented by LANDR (http://otherrecordlabels.com/landr) In this episode, we’re talking about the 3 R’s of running a record label at the halfway mark: Rest, Refresh, and Ready. Oh, and it’s also time for our Half Year Sale over at The Record Label Academy — check out the link in the description or visit otherrecordlabels.com/store to learn more! Ps. Join me Wednesday for OFFICE HOURS! http://otherrecordlabels.com/officehours