Other Record Labels

Taking the Mystery out of Running a Record Label

A podcast for independent record labels with interviews from Sub Pop, Ghostly International, Mute Records, Jagjaguar, and more. Tips and advice for people starting and running a record label. http://www.otherrecordlabels.com

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439 episodes
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Episodes439

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Aug 21, 2025 · 52 min
Garage Sales - (For the Love of Vinyl) - Episode 08
“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
Aug 19, 2025 · 26 min
LISTEN TO THIS... Before You Submit Your Music to Blogs, Curators, or Radio
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
Aug 12, 2025 · 17 min
LISTEN TO THIS... Before You Quit the Music Business!
"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]
Aug 5, 2025 · 28 min
LISTEN TO THIS... Before You Make Cassettes!
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
Jul 29, 2025 · 16 min
LISTEN TO THIS... Before You Pick a Digital Distributor!
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
Jul 24, 2025 · 1 hr 18 min
Turntables - (For the Love of Vinyl) - Episode 07
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
Jul 22, 2025 · 24 min
LISTEN TO THIS... Before You Submit Your Music to a Record Label!
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
Jul 15, 2025 · 21 min
LISTEN TO THIS... Before You Sign an Artist!
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
Jul 8, 2025 · 15 min
LISTEN TO THIS... Before You Make Vinyl!
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
Jun 29, 2025 · 11 min
LISTEN TO THIS... Before You Start a Record Label!
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
Jun 19, 2025 · 50 min
Lathes - (For the Love of Vinyl) - Episode 06
In this episode, I sit down with Tasha Trigger of Lathe to the Grave — a UK-based company making handmade lathe cut vinyl records. Presented by A to Z Media (http://atozmedia.com) We break down what lathe cuts are, how they’re made, and why they’re a smart option for indie artists and small labels who want limited-edition records without the cost or risk of traditional pressing. Tasha shares her passion for the craft, her thoughts on pricing and sound quality, and some of the more eccentric projects she’s cut. We also talk about packaging, small-run merch strategies, and why lathe cuts are more than just music — they’re collectibles. http://otherrecordlabels.com/fortheloveofvinyl http://lathetothegrave.com/
Jun 17, 2025 · 42 min
Silberhall Records - (Record Label Interview)
“To me, the visuals are just as important as the music. It’s 50/50.” What happens when a jazz guitarist, designer, and music lover starts a record label? Silberhall Records is a new Hamburg-based indie label rooted in community and aesthetics. Presented by LANDR: http://otherrecordlabels.com/landr In this episode, presented by LANDR, Anton shares how the label came together, why he values visual design as much as music, and the lessons learned from launching a label while still in school.
Jun 10, 2025 · 26 min
How Will AI Change the Music Industry?
In this episode, I cautiously wade into the rapidly evolving world of AI and its growing presence in music. I’ve been hesitant to record this — not because the conversation isn’t important, but because AI is changing so quickly, and I don’t want to make predictions I’ll regret. Still, it’s time we talk about it. Presented by LANDR - http://otherrecordlabels.com/landr This isn’t a rant or a warning — it’s an open, honest reflection. I talk about the human tendency to rebel against convenience, why handmade art still matters, and how irrationality might just be our greatest strength in the age of artificial intelligence.
Jun 3, 2025 · 52 min
EveryDejaVu Records - (Record Label Interview)
In this episode, Scott chats with Ryan Magnole, founder of EveryDejaVu Records—a label that started as a blog and evolved into a trusted source for unique, left-field artists. We dive deep into how blogs inspired early artist discovery, why physical media still matters, the value of transparent contracts, and what fuels indie label owners in 2025. Presented by LANDR – http://otherrecordlabels.com/landr #landr 🎧 Listen and subscribe for more conversations with inspiring indie label owners.
May 27, 2025 · 24 min
The Post-Release Checklist
Release day isn’t the finish line—it’s the starting line. In this episode, we dig into why so many indie releases seem to fade the moment they drop, and how to flip that mindset. Think of your release campaign like a marathon: everything you did before the release was just training. Now it’s time to run the race. Presented by LANDR - http://otherrecordlabels.com/landr We break down a full post-release strategy for indie artists and record labels, including specific content ideas, a long-term promo schedule, and the mindset shifts you need to keep your album in the spotlight for months—not just days. Whether you’re planning your next release or trying to breathe new life into one that’s already out, this episode gives you the tools to build a smarter, more sustainable release campaign. Download my FREE Post-Release checklist here: http://otherrecordlabels.com/postrelease
May 22, 2025 · 1 hr 37 min
Reissues - (For The Love of Vinyl) - Episode 05
"These reissues are not just records—they're historical documents." In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of reissues with Jason Zeimet of Unoriginal Vinyl. He shares the behind-the-scenes process of resurrecting forgotten 90s and 2000s albums for vinyl for the very first time—or for the first time in decades. Presented by A to Z Media. (http://atozmedia.com) From artist buy-in and rare first pressings to pitch decks and the obsession with doing it right, this is a must-listen for anyone passionate about vinyl culture and music history. Learn More about Unoriginal Vinyl here: http://unoriginalvinyl.com
May 20, 2025 · 1 hr 2 min
Mean World Records - (Record Label Interview)
“Mean World is about being a light in the darkness — a haven for artists in a tough industry.” Interview with Hunter Bates of Mean World Records. Presented by LANDR - (http://otherrecordlabels.com/landr) Denver-based indie label Mean World Records joins the show to talk about building a label that’s equal parts DIY spirit and community hub. We get into Denver’s unique music scene, why design and merch matter, and how selling coffee can actually help fund records. This is what running a modern indie label looks like.
May 19, 2025 · 1 min
Are Crosley Record Players Bad? (For the Love of Vinyl) - Vinyl Bites
Are Crosley turntables bad? They’re a gateway for new vinyl fans—and that’s a win for indie artists! Sure, audiophiles might warn about record wear on lower-priced turntables, but music is meant to be enjoyed. If you love how your Crosley looks and feels, spin those records! Presented by A to Z Media (http://atozmedia.com) SUBSCRIBE TO FOR THE LOVE OF VINYL: http://otherrecordlabels.com/fortheloveofvinyl #VinylLife #CrosleyTurntable #IndieMusic #VinylCommunity #MusicIsLife
May 13, 2025 · 23 min
The 5 Biggest Social Media Roadblocks for Indie Record Labels (And How to Overcome Them)
Social media can feel overwhelming, especially when you're running a record label with limited time and resources. Presented by LANDR (http://otherrecordlabels.com/landr) In this episode, we break down the five most common social media struggles indie label owners face—from not knowing what to post, to questioning if any of it even matters. You'll also learn a simple, repeatable system to help you overcome each roadblock, stay consistent, and build meaningful engagement with your audience. Whether you're starting from scratch or trying to get back on track, this episode will give you a clear path forward. Learn More & Grab The FREE Worksheet: http://otherrecordlabels.com/social-media-roadblocks
May 6, 2025 · 56 min
Hotham Sound - Record Label Interview
Today, I speak with Jamie of Hotham Sound, an experimental cassette label based in Vancouver, BC. Hotham Sound is a home for the weird and wonderful edges of electronic music—think forest electro, field recordings, bent circuits, ambient malcontents, and musicians and non-musicians alike. Presented by LANDR - http://geni.us/trylandr We talk about the label’s roots in the Pacific Northwest, its love for outdated tech and homemade aesthetics, and what it means to build a label that thrives on artistic curiosity and sonic exploration. Learn More about Hotham Sound: http://hothamsound.com If you’re into experimental music, cassette culture, or just passionate about niche record labels doing things their own way, this one’s for you.