Famous Independent Music Labels

Independent music labels have come a long way with some making a significant contribution to the music industry around the world. This article will look at some of the independent music labels that have made a name in the industry.

XL Recordings

XL Recordings was established in 1989 in the United Kingdom. It was originally launched to focus on rave and dance music but has with time expanded and has embraced a wider range of genres. On average XL Recordings has been releasing about six albums on an annual basis, and has worked with the likes of the famous Adele, The Horrors, The XX, Radiohead, M.I.A., Peaches and many more.

R&S Recording

R&S Recordings indie label was started by Renaat Vandeepapeliere in Belgium back in the year 1984. The initials R&S represent the names Renaat and Sabine. They are the couple who created the label. Just like any other company undergoes highs and lows, R&S has not been exceptional. It has had its fair share of ups and downs but has risen to beat the odds. Some of its artists are Lone, Paula Temple, Laydee Capricorn etc.

Matador Records

Based in the U.S.A., Matador Records was founded by Chris Lombard in1989. He started it in his own apartment in New York City. Chris operated the label by himself before he was joined by Gerard Cosly later in 1990. From a small, simple start, Matador has now expanded greatly and not only do they operate in New York but in London as well. They have worked with artistes like Algiers, Darkside, Julien Baker among others.

Saddle Creek Records

This American based label was started in 1993 by Mike Mogis and Justin Oberstar and is located in Omaha, Nebraska. The two started the label as an entrepreneurship project, which was initially called Lumberjack Records. They later changed to Saddle Creek, a street in the midtown Omaha. They have over time grown to a leading label of elegance and stylish music called Omaha sound. Some of its artistes are Azure Ray, Young Jesus, Tim Kasher and others.

Rough Trade Records

Rough Trade was established by Geoff Travis in Ladbroke grove west London in 1976, It is a bunch of Indies in the U.S. and U.K. with its roots in London UK. They concentrate on the Post –Punk genre but don’t discriminate against other genres either. Some of its artistes include:- Alela Diane, Baxter Dury and Alabam Shakes among many more.