New Books Network Mike Huguenor, "Elvis Is Dead, I'm Still Alive: The Story of Asian Man Records" (Clash, 2026)
Mar 21, 2026
Mike Huguenor, musician and writer who played in Shinobu and chronicled DIY punk scenes, narrates the rise of Asian Man Records. He covers the label’s diverse roster, grassroots operations from a garage, surprising archival finds, an unexpected offer to buy the label, and the ethics of telling this Asian American–centered story.
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Asian Man Became A 30 Year DIY Institution
- Asian Man Records grew from Mike Park's DIY Bay Area roots into a 30-year institution releasing 400+ albums.
- The label's identity tied to ska, punk, and Bay Area scenes while reflecting Park's role as a visible Korean American figure.
Signed Over Coffee At A Denny's
- Mike Huguenor joined Asian Man after Shinobu's second album was offered by Mike Park and they met in a Denny's booth.
- Park's approach was hands-off: he paid for CDs and a poster but left touring and promotion to the band.
Accept Labels That Provide Core Support Only
- Do accept label deals that fit your aims even if the label provides minimal support.
- Huguenor shows Asian Man paid manufacturing and offered name recognition while bands booked tours and self-promoted.
