Being Independent is truly the “IN” thing.” – The Coming-Age of Independent Recording Labels
“INDEPENDENT IS TRULY THE “IN” THING.”
It’s amazing how history tends to repeat itself. Today, we are witnessing many talented artists establishing their own independent label, to then be picked up by a major label; some examples are Def Jam and Roca-a-fella records. I say this, because in the early 1940’s, according to Milard, many independent labels began to emerge. Just to name a few, Appollo Records was formed in 1943, King Records was formed in 1944, and Chess Records was formed in 1947. Although middle-class whites were usually the ones establishing many of these independent labels, Trumpet Records, Red Robin Records, and Duke Peacock Records were created by “black entrepreneurs”. What’s more fascinating about the coming-age of independent recording labels, is the interesting fact that Atlantic Records, founded in 1947 by Herb Abrahamson and Ahmet Ertegun is still around today! Good job for Atlantic Records right?
Thank goodness for independent recording labels. Millard clearly states that independent recording labels took “the lead” when it came to “race music” (today race music is better known as Rhythm and Blues). Can you image if independent recording companies never came to exist? We probably wouldn’t have had The Temptations, no Aretha Franklin, definitely no Patti Labelle, certainly no Tina Turner, and probably no Jackson 5. Who agrees with me that sometimes dancing to the beat of your own drum is a good thing? I don’t know about you, but I love me some Tina!
I believed being independent is the smartest thing one can do. What’s so unique and impressive about music labels that decided to become independent were the risk that they took. When Rock-n-roll music came onto the scene many major labels found this style of music not to be so “mainstream”. Once again, independent labels went against the majority, took a different style of music and made it one of today’s most popular music. Its 2010 and Rock-n-roll music is in a class of its own; its definitely mainstream music today if you ask me. One more time for independent record labels!
Just as the title of my blog states, “Being “Independent is truly the “IN” thing.” Sometimes, going against the norm is normal. Sometimes, opening up to change is a GREAT thing. And, sometimes not being dependent on others is the BEST thing on can do. Are you “IN” for being INDEPENDENT?
