Other Record Labels

In this episode, Scott Orr interviews Dean Harada, the founder of Lo'ihi Records, a new Hawaiian record label focused on avant-garde and progressive music from Hawaii. PRESENTED BY GROOVER - http://geni.us/groover USE COUPON CODE: OTHERRECORDLABELSVIP for 10% OFF!    Here's what we discussed in this interview... The Meaning Behind Lo'ihi Records The label's name comes from the Lo'ihi seamount, a rising underwater volcano near Hawaii, symbolizing the growth of a unique music scene. The vision is to support artists who push creative boundaries rather than catering to tourist-driven Hawaiian music. Challenges of Running a Record Label The post-release phase has been one of the biggest challenges, with marketing and sustaining momentum after an album launch being particularly difficult. Social media has been a learning curve for Dean, as he had no prior experience before starting the label. Time management is crucial in balancing label operations with artistic passion. Philosophy and Mission of the Label Lo'ihi Records aims to showcase music that is endemic to Hawaii—unique and growing from the local scene rather than fitting into traditional or commercial Hawaiian music stereotypes. Dean emphasizes legacy building, inspired by his experience working on a historic Hawaiian fish pond restoration, knowing that some things take generations to fully materialize. The Importance of Physical Media & Vinyl Scott and Dean discuss how vinyl records act as cultural artifacts, lasting for decades and creating connections across generations. Dean sees vinyl releases as a way to preserve music beyond digital platforms. Overcoming Industry Hurdles Unlike mainstream Hawaiian music, avant-garde and experimental artists in Hawaii struggle to find platforms and audiences. Lo'ihi Records seeks to change that by fostering a local music community that supports progressive sounds. Marketing & Selling Vinyl Scott shares insights on post-release strategies, emphasizing that record labels need to treat each release like a product launch that requires continued promotion. They discuss the challenge of selling vinyl and the mindset shift needed to focus on long-term marketing rather than just new releases. This episode is an insightful look at the unique vision behind Lo'ihi Records and the realities of starting a record label in an unconventional market.

Groover can be a powerful tool for indie labels and artists looking to land playlist placements, blog features, and sync opportunities—but only if you use it strategically! In this episode, I break down the five biggest mistakes labels and artists make when using Groover, from submitting the wrong tracks to wasting money on the wrong curators. Learn how to maximize your chances of success, get real results, and make the most of your Groover campaign. Get 10% OFF your first campaign with Groover: http://geni.us Use Code: OTHERRECORDLABELSVIP

Dive into the vibrant world of indie metal in Spain with Nuria, the force behind LaRubia Producciones. She champions women's voices in a male-dominated genre while revealing her label's evolution from a DIY setup to an influential platform. Discover the revival of vinyl and how it remains vital for metal fans. Explore the nuances of artist services and sustainable growth, plus the intriguing parallels between law and label ownership. This conversation is packed with insights for music lovers and aspiring label owners alike!

In this poignant debut episode of For the Love of Vinyl, we explore the depths of what vinyl truly means to us through an unexpected and heartbreaking lens. When California wildfires recently devastated entire communities, music writer and editor Mark J. Marriccini lost his entire record collection—a collection that was more than just music, but a reflection of identity, history, and home. Mark shares his emotional journey of loss and what his collection symbolized, from quirky bootlegs to cherished albums that shaped his life. Together, we uncover how records are more than objects; they’re portals to our memories, our passions, and our sense of belonging. This episode wasn’t part of the plan, but Mark’s story reminds us that sometimes it’s in loss that we rediscover the profound love we have for the things that shape us. Brought to you by A to Z Media - (http://atozmedia.com)   Ps. Alex Rodriguez and Record Safari are accepting donations to help folks rebuild their collections... (https://www.instagram.com/recordsafari_la/)

In this episode, we dive deep into a crucial topic for indie record labels: multiple revenue streams. Presented by Infinite Catalog - http://www.infinitecatalog.com The traditional ways of making money—selling records, streaming income, or sync licensing—are becoming harder to rely on. So how do successful labels sustain themselves? We uncover three truths about building multiple revenue streams: 1️⃣ Diversifying is key to success and financial sustainability. 2️⃣ It takes time, innovation, and iteration—this is not an overnight process. 3️⃣ Combining traditional and non-traditional income sources is a winning strategy. Using real-world examples from major companies like Disney and creative approaches from labels in our community, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you reimagine your revenue potential. Whether you’re just starting your label or looking to make it sustainable, this episode will inspire you to think creatively, iterate, and explore what works for you. 💡 Takeaway: Focus on these three actions—do more of what’s working, do it better, and try something new. Getting Started To uncover your unique opportunities, ask yourself these questions: What can I do that no other record label is doing? What can I adapt from other industries that record labels typically don’t use? How can I improve or expand what I’m already doing? What areas of the music industry am I most passionate about? What skills or resources do I have that can generate income?

In this episode, we sit down with Ady, co-founder of the UK-based indie record label Analogue Trash, to explore the unique ethos behind their label. Presented by Infinite Catalog (http://geni.us/infinitecatalog) Ady shares how they cultivate a sense of family among their artists through community-building, collaboration, and mutual support. Discover how monthly Zoom meetups, skill-sharing sessions, and artist development initiatives strengthen the bonds between their diverse roster. We also delve into why indie labels like Analogue Trash are more relevant than ever in today's DIY music landscape and how fostering a collective spirit helps artists thrive. Whether you're an artist, label owner, or indie music fan, this episode offers inspiring insights into what it means to create and sustain a supportive artistic community. Learn more about Analogue Trash: http://analoguetrash.com  

Sign up for Labelmates today! http://otherrecordlabels.com/labelmates Labelmates starts January 21st!   Check out Lo'ihi Records... https://loihirecords.com

In this episode, we dive into why every indie record label needs a mission statement and how to create one that truly reflects your vision. A mission statement isn’t just corporate jargon—it’s your label’s promise to fans and a guiding light for your decisions.   Presented by Infinite Catalog - (http://www.infinitecatalog.com)   We’ll explore: What a mission statement is and why it matters. The three key questions every mission statement should answer: WHAT, HOW, and WHO. Real-world examples and tips to keep your statement specific, actionable, and inspiring. Plus, learn how to use your mission statement as a tool to navigate opportunities and ensure you stay true to your label’s values. Download our free Mission Statement Template at otherrecordlabels.com/mission to follow along and craft your own. Takeaway: By the end of this episode, you’ll have the tools to create a mission statement that defines your label’s purpose and sets the tone for success. Don’t miss it!

Build Your Record Label with Labelmates Thinking about starting a record label in 2025? Or maybe you’ve already launched your label in the past year but need a little guidance? In this episode, Scott introduces Labelmates, a 6-week intensive program designed specifically for new and aspiring record label owners. Learn how this tight-knit group will help you: Set goals and define your niche Navigate legal requirements, contracts, and royalties Build a solid A&R, manufacturing, and distribution plan Develop marketing strategies that work for your label With weekly live sessions, expert guest speakers (like a music attorney!), and a small, supportive community of like-minded label owners, Labelmates is the perfect opportunity to learn, grow, and take your label to the next level. Sessions start January 21st, and spots are limited—so don’t wait! 👉 Register now at otherrecordlabels.com/labelmates.

🎶 What is Sync Licensing? 🎬 Ever wondered how music gets placed in films, TV shows, or commercials? Sync licensing is the answer! In this episode of Other Record Labels, Scott breaks down the basics of sync, explores its main categories, and shares tips to get your music in front of the right people.   Presented by Supertape - A micro, musician and/or record label website tool. (http://supertape.com)   🎧 Learn more about sync and download our free guide at http://otherrecordlabels.com/sync