Other Record Labels
Other Record Labels is a podcast about the people behind independent record labels. Host Scott Orr interviews label owners, operators and DIY musicians who self-release their own music, digging into how small labels actually run. Episodes cover practical topics like promotion, distribution, release strategies, finances and building a fanbase without a major label. It is aimed at anyone starting or running an indie label, or releasing music on their own.
Episodes
Poisoned Furrows Records - (Record Label Interview)
Presented by Hellbender Vinyl - http://www.hellbendervinyl.com
Poison Furrows is an underground label releasing black metal, dark folk, dark ambient, dungeon synth, and other music from the darker corners of independent music.
In this conversation, we talk about building a label around personal taste, why physical formats still matter in niche music communities, and the different roles of cassette
How to Reverse Engineer Music Promotion
What if the best way to figure out how to promote music is to look at how you discover music yourself?
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PRESENTED BY HELLBENDER VINYL
Vinyl pressing for independent artists and record labels.
hellbendervinyl.com
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In this episode, I share a simple exercise for reverse engineering the last few records you discovered — and using those discoveries to rethink how you promote your own releases.
We
Temporal Drift - (Record Label Interview)
This week I’m talking with Patrick McCarthy and Yosuke Kitazawa of Temporal Drift, celebrating five years of one of the most fascinating independent labels around.
PRESENTED BY HELLBENDER VINYL - http://hellbendervinyl.com
We talk about building a two-person label, reissues vs. new music, licensing, release schedules, Hiroshi Yoshimura’s incredible Surround, Les Rallizes Dénudés, and how they’ve b
The Pros and Cons of Vinyl Records - (REPLAY EPISODE)
Presented by Hellbender Vinyl - http://hellbendervinyl.com
25 Ways to Sell More Vinyl - (For the Love of Vinyl)
25 Ways to Sell More Vinyl — Sponsored by Hellbender Vinyl
Pressing vinyl is the exciting part. Selling every last copy? That can take a little more creativity.
In this episode, I share 25 simple, unique ways to sell more vinyl—from hand-numbering and local variants to golden tickets, bundles, influencers, listening parties, and more. None of these ideas will sell 1,000 records overnight, but if e
Are Record Labels the Antidote to AI?
What if record labels become more important in the age of AI—not less?
In this bonus episode, I explore why trusted, human-curated indie labels could become a safe harbor for music fans in a world increasingly flooded with AI—and why now might be the perfect time to build yours.
Learn more about Labelmates here: http://otherrecordlabels.com/labelmates
Vinyl Junkies Interview: Building a Global Community Around Records
What happens when you combine an enormous record collection, live radio, and the community of Twitch? In this episode, I sit down with Sam from Vinyl Junkies, the creator and host of a live vinyl stream that has grown into a remarkably active online community of music obsessives.
PRESENTED BY HELLBENDER VINYL - www.hellbendervinyl.com
Sam broadcasts regularly from a collection of more than 13,
Test Pressings Explained - (For the Love of Vinyl Series)
Before hundreds of copies of your record get pressed, there’s one very important step: the test pressing.
PRESENTED BY HELLBENDER VINYL - http://hellbendervinyl.com
In this episode, Scott breaks down everything artists and indie labels need to know about test pressings — what they are, where they come from, when you receive them, what they cost, and most importantly, what you should actually b
The 5 Pillars of Vinyl Records - (For the Love of Vinyl Series)
Why do people love vinyl?
It's easy to point to the sound, the artwork, or the nostalgia—but those are really just symptoms of something much deeper.
PRESENTED BY HELLBENDER VINYL - http://hellbendervinyl.com
In this episode of For the Love of Vinyl, we explore the five pillars of vinyl: Ritual, Preservation, Luxury, Intimacy, and Discovery. These five ideas help explain why records continue to ca
5 Vinyl Mistakes Artists & Record Labels Make - (For the Love of Vinyl Series)
Pressing a vinyl record is one of the most exciting moments in releasing music—but it's also one of the easiest places to make expensive mistakes.
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PRESENTED BY Hellbender Vinyl - www.hellbendervinyl.com
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In this episode, Scott breaks down the five biggest mistakes he sees artists and indie record labels make when producing vinyl records. From underestimating timelines and
What Makes a Great Record Store? - (For the Love of Vinyl Series)
What separates a good record store from one you can't stop thinking about?
In this episode, I break down the ten things I believe every great record store has in common—from friendly staff and fair pricing to thoughtful displays, clear identity, and those little details that keep you coming back.
Presented by Hellbender Vinyl - http://hellbendervinyl.com
Whether you're a lifelong crate digger, op
The New Vinyl Economy - (For the Love of Vinyl Series)
Presented by Hellbender Vinyl - www.hellbendervinyl.com
In this episode, Scott sits down with Cory Giordano of Inner Ocean Records to explore what independent labels can learn from today's vinyl market. Together they discuss why records continue to thrive, why customers are buying more physical music than ever, and how running a record store has completely changed Cory's approach to running a reco
10 Reasons Why You Should Make Vinyl - (For the Love of Vinyl Series)
Vinyl isn't making a comeback anymore.
It already came back.
Welcome to the very first episode of our For the Love of Vinyl Summer Series—a nine-part deep dive into everything independent record labels need to know about making, selling, collecting, designing, and celebrating vinyl records.
Presented by Hellbender Vinyl - http://www.hellbendervinyl.com
In this opening episode, I make the case for
Sudden Quarterly - (Record Label Interview)
What happens when you build a record label around a single idea—and commit to it for years?
This week I'm joined by Spencer Zahn, founder of Sudden Quarterly, one of the most thoughtfully designed new labels I've come across.
🚨 Presented by HELLBENDER VINYL - http://hellbendervinyl.com
Every year follows a different creative theme. Every release is visually connected. Every record is a brand-new c
You Are Halfway Through 2026!
We're officially halfway through 2026, and before you start planning the next release, stressing about Q4, or comparing yourself to other labels, let's take a moment to celebrate something far more important:
You're still here.
Presented by HELLBENDER VINYL - hellbendervinyl.com
In this episode, Scott reflects on the most admirable quality shared by the best independent labels and artists—not str
Inertial Music - (Record Label Interview)
This week, Scott sits down with Enrico, founder of Inertial Music, an independent label based in Italy specializing in progressive metal, ambient, electronic, and atmospheric music.
Presented by Hellbender Vinyl - www.hellbendervinyl.com
In just two years, Enrico has built a catalog of physical releases, secured international distribution, and developed a reputation for thoughtful curation and tra
The Simple System I Use for Every Release
There’s a lot to keep track of when you're releasing music.
Release dates. ISRCs. Lyrics. Artwork. Press photos. Streaming links. Download links. Metadata. Songwriter information. And somehow, years later, you still need to find all of it again.
In this episode, I share one of the most useful systems I've ever created for managing releases: Release Central.
PRESENTED BY HELLBENDER VINYL - www.he
Interview with Groover founder Dorian Perron - (Industry Insights)
In this episode, Scott sits down with Groover co-founder Dorian Perron to discuss how artists and record labels can get their music heard in an increasingly crowded music landscape.
Presented by: Hellbender Vinyl (www.hellbendervinyl.com
They explore the evolution of playlist pitching, why streaming numbers have become such a powerful metric, the role of blogs and tastemakers today, and how Groove
Interview with Colemine Records - (PLAYBACK EPISODE)
PLAYBACK EPISODE!
Let's revisit one of my favorite interviews of all time, Terry Cole of Colemine Records!
Presented by HELLBENDER VINYL - hellbendervinyl.com
10 Reasons Why You Should Do Vinyl...
In this episode, we explore 10 real reasons why indie artists and record labels should seriously consider pressing vinyl records — even in a world dominated by streaming.
Presented by HELLBENDER VINYL
www.hellbendervinyl.com
From stronger profit margins and long-tail inventory to legitimacy, fandom, and discovering new audiences, vinyl continues to prove itself as more than nostalgia.
Scott shar
The Big Dark Records - (Record Label Interview)
“DIY shouldn’t mean being ashamed of excellence.”
In this episode, I sit down with the founders of http://hellbendervinyl.com
We talk about the modern Seattle music scene, DIY culture, youth creativity, recording music with teenagers, physical media, and why “real life experiences” still matter in a hyper-online world.
Check out The Big Dark Records - http://thebigdarkrecords.com
Support provided
The Return of the CD
If you’re an artist or running a label, is CD actually the smartest physical format right now?
If you’re a fan, is it worth collecting, or just nostalgia?
We’re digging into the real pros and cons on both sides—no hype, no nostalgia bias.
Because this isn’t just about a format…
It’s about understanding where the next opportunity might be hiding.
Get Books for Record Labels: http://otherrecordlabel
We All Speak in Poems - (Record Label Interview)
In this episode, I sit down with Brady (Alaskan Tapes), the artist and mind behind We All Speak In Poems—a project that exists somewhere between a label, a creative platform, and a philosophy.
PRESENTED BY HELLBENDER VINYL - www.hellbendervinyl.com
We talk about the quiet power of ambient music, building a world around your art, and what it really means to create without chasing numbers. Brady
How Great Record Labels Release New Music
Most music releases fail before they even come out.
Not because the music isn’t good — but because there’s no real strategy behind it.
Presented by HELLBENDER VINYL - www.hellbendervinyl.com
In this episode, I walk through 5 essential principles every artist should follow when preparing a new release. These are simple, practical shifts that turn scattered “drops” into focused campaigns that build
Kou Records - (Record Label Interview)
“How you present something affects how you hear it.”
Presented by HELLBENDER VINYL - www.hellbenderviny.com
In this episode, I sit down with Charmaine and Randall of Kou Records — one of the most ambitious and creative indie labels I’ve come across — to break down their “cohort” model: multiple records released together as a unified body of work.
We talk about:
Why they reject genre, algorithms
Does Your Music Have to Be Good to Succeed?
Does the music you release actually need to be good?
Not just “good enough.” Not just “interesting.” But truly great?
PRESENTED BY HELLBENDER VINYL - www.hellbendervinyl.com
In this episode, we unpack a question that sits right at the heart of indie music—but often goes unspoken. If DIY culture is about freedom and expression, does quality even matter? Or are we sometimes hiding behind “lo-fi” and
Bar/None Records - (Record Label Interview)
What does it actually look like to take over a legendary indie label?
In this episode, I sit down with Emmy Black, the new owner of Bar/None Records—a label with nearly 40 years of history and a roster that helped launch artists like They Might Be Giants and Yo La Tengo.
PRESENTED BY LANDR - get.landr.com/otherrecordlabels
We talk about what it means to inherit a legacy, how to modernize an indie
Social Media Observations for Record Labels
Social media feels like a necessary evil for most indie artists and label owners.
You know you should be posting… but what’s actually working? What matters? And is any of it even worth your time?
*PRESENTED BY LANDR* get.landr.com/otherrecordlabels
In this episode, I’m not coming to you as an expert—I’m coming to you as someone figuring it out alongside you.
I break down 5 things I’ve personally
Crestfallen Records - (Record Label Interview)
In this episode, Scott talks with Bryce, founder of Crestfallen Records, a Pittsburgh-based DIY metal label that has quietly become one of the most respected names in the modern deathcore and metalcore vinyl scene.
***Presented by LANDR - get.landr.com/otherrecordlabels ***
In just five years, Bryce has released 60+ vinyl titles, many with 4–6 variants each, turning Crestfallen into a destinatio
Email Lists for Record Labels: The 5 Simple Steps
Email marketing might be the most boring topic in the music industry… and also the most profitable.
PRESENTED BY LANDR - get.landr.com/otherrecordlabels
In this episode, Scott breaks down why email lists remain the most powerful marketing tool for record labels and indie artists — even in a world obsessed with TikTok, reels, and algorithms.
While platforms come and go, email has quietly remained t
Weird Fruit Records - (Record Label Interview)
“Here’s some weird fruit. Trust me — once you bite into it, you’ll love it.”
What if your record label operated like a farmers market for strange, exotic fruit?
PRESENTED BY LANDR - get.landr.com/otherrecordlabels
In this episode, I sit down with Aaron of Weird Fruit Records, a Santa Cruz-based label born out of pandemic farming, unconventional recording spaces, and a love for music that’s just a
4 Rules Every Label Owner Must Live By
In this episode, I break down four deceptively simple rules inspired by Make Your Own Rules by Andrew Huang — rules that every creative entrepreneur, indie artist, and record label owner needs to understand:
Do things you want to do
Don’t do things you want to do
Do things you don’t want to do
Don’t do things you don’t want to do
Confusing? Good.
PRESENTED BY LANDR: landr.com/otherrecor
Alt Dub - (Record Label Interview)
“Twenty years as an artist prepared me to serve other artists better.”
This week on Other Record Labels, Scott sits down with Chris Kelly, founder of Alt Dub Records, a UK-based dub techno label that’s been quietly selling out vinyl releases and building serious momentum in under two years.
Presented by LANDR - landr.otherrecordlabels.com
Chris is an artist-first label owner with decades of exp
Why Your Records Aren't Selling
Why aren’t your records selling?
This week, I’m breaking down five common reasons your CDs, tapes, vinyl (and even your streams) might be stuck… and what to do about it.
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Presented by LANDR - http://landr.com/otherrecordlabels
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No, I’m not promising you’ll magically sell out overnight. But I do believe in the compound effect: a bunch of small 1% improvements that add up—going from no sales
Can You Trust AI With Your Music Contracts? - (Industry Insiders)
AI is showing up everywhere in the music industry — writing emails, summarizing deals, generating marketing plans… and now, drafting contracts.
But just because AI can help with music law, doesn’t mean it should.
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Presented by LANDR - http://landr.com/otherrecordlabels
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In this episode, I sit down with Cassandra Spangler, a New York–based music and entertainment attorney, to talk honestl
Starting a Record Label in 2026. - "Consistency & Commitment" - Part 8
You should download my free TOOLKIT for new record labels... http://otherrecordlabels.com/toolkit
Thanks to LANDR for sponsoring this episode. landr.com/otherrecordlabels
Starting a record label is exciting—but sticking with it is where the real work begins.
In Episode 8 of How to Start a Record Label This Year, Scott focuses on one of the most important (and underrated) qualities of successf
Starting a Record Label in 2026 - "Contracts & Royalties" - Part 7
You should download my free TOOLKIT for new record labels... http://otherrecordlabels.com/toolkit
Thanks to LANDR for sponsoring this episode. landr.com/otherrecordlabels
Contracts and royalties are where a lot of people get stuck—and for good reason. Record labels have a long history of bad deals, broken trust, and artists getting the short end of the stick. In Episode 7 of How to Start a Re
Starting a Record Label in 2026 - "Making Money in Music" - Part 6
You should download my free TOOLKIT for new record labels... http://otherrecordlabels.com/toolkit
Thanks to LANDR for sponsoring this episode. landr.com/otherrecordlabels
People love to say there’s no money in the music industry. And honestly? It can feel that way—especially when you’re just getting started.
In Episode 6 of How to Start a Record Label This Year, Scott tackles this myth head-o
Starting a Record Label in 2026 - "Releasing New Music" - Part 5
You should download my free TOOLKIT for new record labels... http://otherrecordlabels.com/toolkit
Thanks to LANDR for sponsoring this episode. landr.com/otherrecordlabels
In Episode 5 of How to Start a Record Label This Year, Scott walks through what actually happens when you’re ready to release music—and how to do it in a way that gives your record the best possible chance to succeed.
From c
Starting a Record Label in 2026 - "Finding & Signing Artists" - Part 4
One of the most intimidating questions new label owners face is: How do I actually find artists for my record label?
And right behind it: How do I even approach an artist without feeling awkward or unqualified?
PRESENTED BY LANDR - landr.com/otherrecordlabels
In Episode 4, Scott breaks this down in the most practical—and human—way possible. Instead of chasing hype or cold-pitching strangers, he ex
Starting a Record Label in 2026 - "Launching Your Record Label" - Part 3
One of the biggest questions new label owners ask is: When can I officially launch my record label?
Is it when you announce the name? Post a logo? Release your first record?
PRESENTED BY LANDR - http://landr.com/otherrecordlabels
In Episode 3, Scott explains why the real answer has less to do with a launch date—and everything to do with what he calls the pipeline.
This episode breaks down why a re
Starting a Record Label in 2026 - "Branding Your Label" - Part 2
You should download my free TOOLKIT for new record labels... http://otherrecordlabels.com/toolkit
Thanks to LANDR for sponsoring this episode. landr.com/otherrecordlabels
In Episode 2 of How to Start a Record Label This Year, Scott dives into branding—specifically how to name your label, define your identity, and build a brand that actually connects with the right audience.
If you’ve been stuck
Starting a Record Label in 2026 - "The Imposter Syndrome" - Part 1
You should download my free TOOLKIT for new record labels... http://otherrecordlabels.com/toolkit
Thanks to LANDR for sponsoring this episode. landr.com/otherrecordlabels
Imposter syndrome is one of the biggest reasons people never start a record label. That quiet (or loud) voice asking: Who am I to do this? Why would anyone care about my taste, my curation, or my point of view?
In this episo
Why I'm Optimistic About The Music Industry
Why I’m Optimistic About The Music Industry
Times are tough in the music industry—and there’s no point pretending otherwise. Streaming payouts are shrinking, costs are rising, the economy is squeezing fans, and AI plus the distraction economy are reshaping how people engage with music.
In this episode of Other Record Labels, I acknowledge the very real challenges indie labels and musicians are fac
New Release Blueprint - Lesson 4
Lesson 4 — HELPING YOUR NEW RELEASE
Bonus Release Questions You’re Probably Asking Right Now
PRESENTED BY LANDR - landr.com/otherrecordlabels
This episode is a rapid-fire support library for all the extra stuff that can trip up a release if you’re DIY. Think of it as your “release survival guide” for the details that matter once the plan is in motion. Plus we look at the big macro picture of sta
Christmas Records - (For the Love of Vinyl) - Episode 11
FOR THE LOVE OF VINYL
Presented by A to Z Media (atozmedia.com)
What makes a Christmas record timeless? Why do holiday albums outsell almost everything else on vinyl every December? And which Christmas records are actually worth owning?
In this festive episode of For the Love of Vinyl, host Scott Orr is joined by Terry Cole of Colemine Records and Plaid Room Records (Loveland, Ohio) for a deep div
New Release Blueprint - Lesson 3
Lesson 3 — PROMOTING YOUR NEW RELEASE
How to Promote a Release Without Losing Your Mind
PRESENTED BY LANDR - landr.com/otherrecordlabels
Promotion doesn’t have to mean gimmicks, burnout, or spending money you don’t have. In this episode, you’ll learn how to pitch your release to press and playlists, create real marketing opportunities, find your unique angle, and make release day count. We’ll al
New Release Blueprint - Lesson 2
Lesson 2 — PREPARING YOUR NEW RELEASE
The Release Prep Checklist: Dates, Goals, Lead Time, and Distribution
PRESENTED BY LANDR - landr.com/otherrecordlabels
Before you promote anything, you need a real plan. We’ll walk through how to know when your music is actually ready, how to pick a strategic release date, and how to build a workback schedule that keeps you on track. Plus we’ll cover setting
New Release Blueprint - Lesson 1
Lesson 1 — INTRO TO YOUR NEW RELEASE
Why Great Music Gets Ignored (And How to Fix It)
PRESENTED BY LANDR - landr.com/otherrecordlabels
You can make an amazing record and still have it flop if the release plan isn’t there. In this episode, we break down the real reasons new music gets ignored—low effort, no lead time, weak post-release follow-through, bad luck, and even the hard truth about qualit
Sneak Peek from Scott...
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Presented by LANDR - http://landr.com/otherrecordlabels
Something's Coming This Week...
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Learn more about The Record Label Academy: http://otherrecordlabels.com/academy
Chalkpit Cassette Club - (Record Label Interview)
In this episode, Scott talks with Silas, founder of Chalkpit Cassette Club and creator of The Next Wave, the monthly cassette-and-magazine discovery series that has quietly become one of the most innovative physical music platforms in the indie world.
***Get 20% OFF your LANDR Subscription! - http://landr.com/otherrecordlabels
Silas shares the origin story of Chalkpit — from inheriting his gr
How to Switch Digital Distributors
Switching digital distributors can feel terrifying — what if you lose your Spotify streams, your playlists, or your hard-earned momentum? In this episode, I walk you through exactly how I safely transferred one of my own tracks (with over 200,000 streams and dozens of playlist placements) from CD Baby to LANDR… without losing a single play.
I’ll share the simple 4-step process to move your release
King Volume Records - (Record Label Interview)
“If you put your artists first and try to think about what would be the best thing for them, eventually your needs will get met.”
What if a record label ignored the “industry rules,” bundled three unknown bands into a cassette box—and sold out?
Presented by LANDR - http://landr.com/otherrecordlabels
Todd White of King Volume Records joins Scott to share how his DIY indie-metal label went from a
The Environmental Impact of Vinyl - (For the Love of Vinyl) - Episode 10
Vinyl records are often celebrated for their warmth, their permanence, and their beauty — but what’s the real environmental cost of keeping this format alive?
Presented by A to Z Media - http://atozmedia.com
In this episode, Scott sits down with sustainability experts Ryan Weitzel and Vladimír Víšek to explore the environmental impact of vinyl records — from raw materials and manufacturing to pa
How to Survive When the Music Industry Sucks
Feeling like the music industry kinda sucks right now? You’re not alone.
In this episode of Other Record Labels, Scott opens up about the discouraging moments that come with running a label or making music when everything seems down — the numbers, the engagement, the excitement. He shares three powerful ways to push through the slump: reconnecting with your “why,” doing something drastic to reigni
Hideout Records (Record Label Interview)
Meet Danny in our upcoming Labelmates Group! http://otherrecordlabels.com/register
In this episode, Scott talks with Danny from Hideout Records, a brand new jazz label based in Vienna, Austria. Danny shares how his journey as a bassist, studio owner, and producer led to launching a record label that supports the local jazz community.
They discuss the blurred lines between creativity and entreprene
Have I told you this story?
In this episode, I want to share my story of how Other Record Labels began — not as a company, but as a podcast born from frustration, burnout, and a desire to connect with other indie label owners. How this rainy day moment in 2017 turned into hundreds of interviews with the world’s most inspiring labels and the creation of a thriving community for label owners.
If you’re feeling stuck or alone i
Portal of Eels - (Record Label Interview)
“Every release is a statement in time — even if people don’t find it now, they might discover it years down the road.”
In this episode of Other Record Labels, I chat with Bryan, the founder of Portal of Eels, a new independent record label from Denver, Colorado.
Presented by LANDR - The Official Digital Distributor of Other Record Labels
Sign Up: landr.com/otherrecordlabels
We talk about the labe
Sun Records - (Record Label Interview)
This week, I sit down with Chase and Laura from Sun Records — yes, the Sun Records. The birthplace of rock & roll, where Elvis, Johnny Cash, and Roy Orbison first got their start.
Presented by LANDR - Click here for an EXCLUSIVE subscription discount: http://landr.com/otherrecordlabels
We talk about what it means to protect and evolve a label that helped invent modern music. How do you stay tr
The Real Reason People Start a Record Label
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
The New Record Label Model
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 innovat
How Vinyl is Made - (For the Love of Vinyl) - Episode 09
“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 h
Special Update from Scott!
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
Interview with Numero Group - (BESPOKEN PODCAST)
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 BE
How to Find Your Record Label’s Unique Identity
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 la
The World Doesn't Need Record Labels
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 anymo
LISTEN TO THIS... Before You Pick a Release Date
“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 plann
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 thro
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/otherrec
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 act
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 doin
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 suppor
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
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
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
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,
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,
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
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 d
