A2IM: American Association of Independent Music

3CG Records is an independent record label started by the pop/rock group Hanson in 2003.

Now in its 50th year, ABKCO Music and Records is one of the world's leading independent record companies. It is home to critical catalog assets that include compositions and recordings by Sam Cooke, The Rolling Stones, Bobby Womack, The Animals, Herman’s Hermits, Marianne Faithfull, The Kinks as well as the Cameo Parkway masters by such artists as Chubby Checker, Bobby Rydell, The Orlons, The Dovells, ? & The Mysterians, The Tymes and Dee Dee Sharp. The 40th anniversary edition of Get Yer Ya-Ya’s Out! The Rolling Stones In Concert is a highlight of the company’s 2009 release schedule.

Alligator Records is a 34-year-old Chicago-based blues and roots label with a staff of 16. Our catalog includes over 230 in-print titles comprising the best in contemporary blues and roots rock. We are independently distributed in most (but not all) worldwide markets.

AMGI is an Independent Music label based out of Illinois specializing in all genres of music. We provide label and artist management to aspiring artist and labels on the rise. Artist on AMGI include-- Vizion 100, A Price, Boss Major, Cutty Stylez, AR Stackz, Faith J. Label partners--G&S, LLR, Ova Eat'n Ent. Video and Movie Production--GLIQUID. MOEST.

Big Picnic Records, distributed by Sony/RED, launched in 2013. The label has a strategic relationship with Paradigm Talent Agency. Paradigm's Marty Diamond will provide A&R support to label general manager Patti Hauseman. Big Picnic's first release was the Shoestring EP by British singer/songwriter WALL on April 2, 2013. Influenced by artists such as St Vincent and Patti Smith, WALL takes her lead from women with a strong sense of identity. Favoring rudimentary recording equipment over state-of-the-art studios, WALL creates sparse soundscapes, with only muted bass lines and scattered keyboards to frame her voice. Pitchfork said of the EP's title track, "'Shoestring' feels like having a necessarily intimate conversation in a busy public place: there may be bigger and louder things going on elsewhere, but right now hearing what Wall has to say is the only thing that matters." Big Picnic's initial roster also includes Foxes and JOHNNYSWIM. Foxes is the alter ego of the London-based singer and musician Louisa Rose Allen. Her debut single "Youth," with its resplendent synths, industrial percussion and by turns searing and soaring vocal, garnered more than two million combined Soundcloud and YouTube plays, and 13,000 Hypemachine 'likes,' plus synchs on CW's "Gossip Girl." She followed it up with the "Warrior" EP in the summer of 2012, and is the featured vocalist on Zedd's fast-rising EDM single "Clarity." JOHNNYSWIM is the Los Angeles duo of Amanda Sudano and Abner Ramirez. The two began writing and singing together in 2006 and found that their similar influences of folk, soul, and rock blended together lusciously. Nashville's daily newspaper, The Tennessean, describes JOHNNYSWIM as "a mix of Lauryn Hill and John Mayer."

Since 1994, Bloodshot Records has championed music that lurks between genres; the good stuff nestled in the dark, nebulous cracks where punk, country, soul, pop, bluegrass, blues and rock mix and mingle and mutate. Bloodshot artists work over American roots forms with chains and velvet gloves with little regard for formality or protocol; they aren't afraid to molest and caress these forms to take music into uncharted and exciting waters. Bloodshot and it's artists share a punk/DIY ethic of expression. Bloodshot's artist roster includes: Bobby Bare Jr., Detroit Cobras, Scott H. Biram, The Bottle Rockets, Deadstring Brothers, Gore Gore Girls, Wayne Hancock, Graham Parker, The Silos, Waco Brothers, and Wee Hairy Beasties. From Bloodshot's shabby offices on a bleak stretch of the Northwest Side of Chicago, the label forges ahead in an environment hostile to the little guy, keeping its steel-toed boot on the throats of the forces responsible for the free fall decline of the contemporary music scene.

Bob Frank Entertainment (BFE) was formed in 2012 as a full service entertainment company including record labels, music publishing companies, a film and graphic novel development division as well holding interests in several new media companies. Record labels include Soul Temple which released the soundtrack to Quentin Tarantino's "The Man With The Iron Fists" in October 2012 as well as Country music legend Charlie Daniels Bluehat Records and Red River Entertainment. In the US distribution is via RED with various partners around the world. Frank was President of Koch Records / E1 Music during their 10 year run as the #1 Independent in the US from 2000 - 2009. He is also a former PolyGram executive.

For 2009, Bongo Beat celebrates 14 years of operation as a label dedicated to great music, new sounds and new visions - curated under the ever eclectic eye of label founder Ralph Alfonso, who originally started Bongo Beat to showcase his jazz/garage rock combo. An industry veteran (Warner, EMI, Attic, Nettwerk) as well as a performer / photographer / writer / designer, Ralph encourages his artists to set higher standards - reflected in both the music and distinctive packaging. Internationally, Bongo Beat is distributed in the USA by Burnside, in Canada by Outside Music, UK by Proper, Germany by New Music, and Netherlands by Sonic Rendezvous. Roster includes: Katrina & The Waves, Johnny Dowd, The Diodes, Ann Mortifee, Ari Shine, Dave Rave (Teenage Head), Alternative TV, Paul Hyde (The Payolas), Linda McLean, Jeb Loy Nichols (catalog), Meryn Cadell, Plaza Musique, Fraze Gang (ex Brighton Rock), Plastic Heroes, Kevin House, Bedsit Poets, Kimberley Rew, Kevin Kane (Grapes of Wrath), Andy Creeggan (Barenaked Ladies), Kevin Quain, Jonathan Emile, Graham Brown (Brilliant Orange), and more. We have offices in Portland, OR, and Montreal, Quebec.

Brassland is an artist-operated label started in 2001 by Alec Hanley Bemis and twin brothers Aaron and Bryce Dessner. We began with a pair of debuts by Clogs & The National, but our goal was to develop a community of creative folk, and the family has grown to include work by Nico Muhly, Buke & Gass, and Doveman among others. We like music that transcends genre. We encourage collaboration and creation among an evolving community of creative folks. We like musicians who play well and possess the elusive tonic of personality.

Concord Music Group (CMG) was formed in 2004 with the merger of Concord Records and Fantasy Records. In 2005, the company welcomed Telarc Records to the family. Each of these companies has a long and storied history full of major music milestones and critical acclaim. Together, they bring rosters of current artists and legendary catalogs, which make CMG one of the largest and fastest-growing independent music companies in the world. Part of CMG's mission statement proclaims the company shall "enrich lives by providing music of timeless appeal in innovative ways." This commitment to the music-loving public is why we continue to focus on music of quality and long-term appeal, while being cognizant of the changes in the way that consumers find and experience music. Examples of how we're implementing this mission include the revival of the classic Stax label, home to the finest in R&B and soul music, and Hear Music, a joint venture with Starbucks that makes music more readily accessible to fans.

Founded in 2007, Dead Oceans is the label responsible for sound recordings by The Tallest Man on Earth, Phosphorescent, Akron/Family, Bowerbirds, White Hinterland, Califone, Bishop Allen, the Luyas and more. Based in Bloomington, IN alongside Secretly Canadian and Jagjaguwar, Dead Oceans has released over 30 albums since its inception.

Group Description

Double Blind Music, a rock imprint of A2IM Member System Recordings that is home to bands 32 Leaves, Signal The Escape, Opus Dai and Sparks The Rescue.

Eagle Rock Entertainment is the largest producer and distributor of music programming for DVD, Blu-Ray, TV, Audio and Digital Media in the world. Eagle works directly alongside talent to produce top quality, High Definition and 3D programs, both concerts and documentaries, including The Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, The Who, Queen, The Doors, Jeff Beck, U2, Peter Gabriel, Paul McCartney and Ozzy Osbourne. Eagle’s TV library features over 2,000 hours of programming and there are over 800 titles currently available worldwide on DVD, Blu-Ray and digitally. Eagle is a Grammy Award winning company and has received over 30 Multi-Platinum, over 50 Platinum and over 90 Gold Discs, worldwide. Eagle continues to operate two audio music labels and has recently released both physical and digital albums by Ronnie Wood, Lindsay Buckingham, Gary Moore, Styx and Counting Crows. Eagle is also now a fully-fledged music publisher through its new subsidiary, Eagle-i Music. Eagle Rock Entertainment has offices in London, New York, Toronto, Paris and Hamburg. NOVEMBER 2011

Eleven Seven was named "Rock Label of the Year" for 2008 by Friday Morning Quarterback.

Entertainment One (AIM: ETO) is a leading independent entertainment content owner that acquires film, television and music rights and exploits these rights in all media in more than 190 countries. The company currently operates in Canada, the U.S., the UK, Holland and Belgium through its four primary businesses units: E1 Television, E1 Films, E1 Music and E1 Distribution. These businesses collectively represent E1’s extensive expertise in film distribution, television and music production/distribution, Kids content, Licensing and Distribution. E1’s content library includes more than 3,700 feature films, 2,700 hours of original television programming and 15,000 music tracks.

DELIVERING CONTENT TO MORE THAN 4,000 RETAIL PARTNERS IN NORTH AMERICA eOne Distribution is the largest independent music and video distributor in North America and holds the highest market share of any independent. The company boasts an unparalleled roster ranging from leading independent labels to major Hollywood studios covering a wide spectrum of genres in both music and video. Through its state-of-the-art facilities in New York and Toronto, eOne Distribution manages physical distribution of CD, Blu-ray and DVD inventories and is a leading Internet fulfillment wholesales of home entertainment products through partnerships with the world’s largest on-line retailers. eOne continues to expand its relationships with the industry leading producers while also offering traditional wholesale and managed inventory services to some of North America’s largest retailers. A TRUSTED SUPPLIER OF QUALITY ENTERTAINMENT CONTENT Entertainment One U.S. is the American content ownership and home entertainment distribution arm of global content giant Entertainment One (AIM: ETO), one of the world’s leading international entertainment companies with operations in North America, Holland, Belgium and the UK. Distributing the work of thousands of independent artist’s product, Entertainment One is the leading distributor in Pop, Rock, Heavy Metal, Christian, Gospel, World Music, Rap, Hip-Hop, Kids and Classical; Entertainment One is expert in selling and marketing all genres of music. With the largest independent sales teams based throughout the territory, product is sold by experienced professionals the correct way, “face to face.” Entertainment One also provides you the opportunity to license or distribute releases in territories worldwide, including Asia, Europe and South America. Simply put, Entertainment One is your global one stop sales and distribution solution.

Essential Media Group LLC. is a South Florida based record label specializing in multiple genres encompassing all eras of Folk, Blues, Jazz, Classical, World, Rock, R&B and Pop including current Hip Hop, Dancehall, Reggaeton and Dance/Electronic Music.

We have provided services to a wide range of clients. For major labels to Film & TV projects, our catalog of past and future hits has proven invaluable. Some of our clientele have included: HBO Films, Paramount , Time Life, Universal Music, Warner Bros, Sony Music, SMI, Virgin America, BMG, BMG Ariola, EMI, Kiddix GmbH, Ministry Of Sound, Telstar, Motor Music GmbH and many many more.

Catalog highlights include current artists such as Baby Bash, Jordan Knight and Third World - Jazz greats such as Django Reinhardt, Coleman Hawkins, Charlie Parker and Grant Green - Folk music pioneers such as John Jacob Niles, Etta Baker, Paul Clayton, The Clancy Brothers, Ewan MacColl and Odetta - Blues masters such as Albert King, J.B. Lenoir, Lightnin' Hopkins, Snooky Pryor, Sonny Terry, Mississippi Fred McDowell - Classical icons such as master cellist Janos Starker, violinist extraordinaire David Oistrakh, modern composer Arnold Schönberg and much more.

Folk, Blues, Jazz, World, Dance, Hip-Hop, Electronica, Rock, Americana, Pop, Classical, Cuban music - all this adds up to one of the most diverse catalogs in the industry, encompassing all genres with exclusive content.

FADER Label is an independent record label based in New York City. Founded in 2002 by Jon Cohen and Rob Stone, FADER Label has released a dynamic catalogue of critically acclaimed full-length albums by seminal recording artists, including Matt and Kim, Neon Indian, Editors, Yuna and Saul Williams.

Frenchkiss Records is an independent record label based in New York, New York. The label was started in 1999 by Syd Butler, bassist and founder of Les Savy Fav. The label's first purpose was to release Les Savy Fav's second album The Cat and The Cobra, but has since been the label responsible for discovering a varying array of artists such as The Hold Steady, The Antlers, The Dodos, Local Natives and Passion Pit. The label has recently added a music publishing side as well, Frenchkiss Publishing.

Glassnote Entertainment Group is a full service independent music company founded by Daniel Glass, one of the most accomplished and respected music people in the industry. His devotion to music and the artists that create this magic is what drove him to create the new company. Through Glassnote, Mr. Glass has created the next-generation Music Company. It can be looked at as a rebirth of the great independent record companies, Chrysalis, Motown, Atlantic and Island, but built for the ever-changing marketplace. Glassnote is an artist centric music company that appeals to the creative nature of individuals. We seek out and attract artists and producers who are independent by nature- artists who want to take ownership of their careers and are willing to work with a label to contribute to their success. With its communal spirit, exquisite mix of artists, musically driven management Team and its ongoing working relationships with top tier producers, agents, managers, mixers, engineers, disc jockeys and songwriters, Glassnote is a destination for great artists and will continue to flourish in this next evolution of the music marketplace.

Good Time Music

Gummybear International Inc. is engaged in the creation, development, and branding of animated entertainment properties, as well as musical content based on and produced for such properties. It markets and sells recorded musical and video products in various physical formats, such as compact discs and DVDs, and digital formats, such as downloads and ringtones, through a worldwide network of established distributors and licensees. The company’s music publishing segment owns and acquires rights to musical compositions, markets these compositions, and receives royalties or fees for their use. It also is actively developing mobile and computer based games and exploiting merchandising rights for its brands in cooperation with a variety of licensing partners. GBI is working on a number of film and TV projects. The company is headquartered in New Jersey.

Founded in 1993, Hopeless Records is a Southern California independent record label home to The Used, Yellowcard, Silverstein, We Are The In Crowd, Enter Shikari, The Wonder Years, Anarbor, The Dangerous Summer, and many more. Throughout the 18 year history of Hopeless Records the label has released over 100 albums and launched the careers of Avenged Sevenfold, Thrice, and All Time Low. In 1999, Hopeless Records formally started supporting non-profit organizations under the Sub City name with charitable albums, tours, and events. Now itself a registered 501c3 non profit organization, Sub City continues this mission of raising funds and awareness for worthy causes and to date has raised over $2 million dollars for over 50 non-profit organizations.

Ingenious Records is a label based out of South Florida as part of the evolution and expansion of sister company Heiga Audiovisual. Looking to bring their music into the global scene, Ingenious Records' founder bring more than 20 years combined experience, shown on the label roster's prime quality, with artist like: Drew Parker, My Amends, 1ra Edicion, Unos Panas Ahi, Katey Douglass and Demori

Started in Virginia, transplanted to Indiana, Jagjaguwar has been releasing sentimental noise and understated musical revelations for over fourteen years. Jagjaguwar is a home to music by Bon Iver, Okkervil River, Dinosaur Jr., Black Mountain, Gayngs, Lia Ices, Cave Singers, Oneida and Small Black amongst many others. (FYI, we refer to Jagjaguwar as "Jagjaguwar" never as "Jagjaguwar Records".)

Le Plan was launched in New York in 2005 and aims to bridge the gap between European independent artists and North-American audiences. Our artists come from Pop (Emilie Simon), Hip-Hop (Wax Tailor), Rock (The Penelope[s]) or Techno (Rebotini), but all have in common a home-studio based ethic and a love for DJ Culture. The name of the label is inspired by Umberto Eco's novel "Foucault's Pendulum", and we are distributed by the fine folks at ADA.

Luaka Bop is a world music-oriented record label established by David Byrne and Yale Evelev. The label has been a wholly independent label since leaving V2 in 2006. Luaka Bop has been responsible for compilations representing sounds from around the world as well as the release of full length albums, EPs, and singles from individual artists and bands. Brazil Classics kicked off the label and a set of seven albums surveying eras and artists ranging from Samba to Tropicália. Ventures into Afro-Peruvian and AfroPean musics unearthed the talents of Susana Baca and Zap Mama, respectively. World Psychedelic Classics is made up of three albums and includes artists such as Shuggie Otis, Os Mutantes as well as West African artists of the late 1960s. Additionally, the label has released Cuba and Asia Classics.

Magna Carta has established itself as a leader in progressive rock and progressive metal. With Quality and Musicianship as its trademarks, Magna Carta has remained true to its original game plan and survived in difficult times while presenting music for a narrow but dedicated audience segment. Magna Carta’s mission is to continue to find and release music that has intelligence, imagination, virtuosity and feeling. Geographic boundaries are not an issue for the label because it has released and distributed music from excellent artists throughout the world.

Matador was started by Chris Lombardi in 1989 in his New York City apartment. The following year, Lombardi was joined by former Homestead Records manager Gerard Cosloy, and the two of them have run it together since.

small label -- big sound Founded in Ann Arbor, MI, as a regional indie label and production company in 1972, MEGAWAVE today presents music from artists and artist-owned labels from around the world.

Merge Records is an independent record label based in Durham, NC. Founded in 1989 by Mac McCaughan and Laura Ballance, Merge Records celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2009. Superchunk’s McCaughan and Ballance started Merge as a way to release their own music and the music of their friends. Merge Records has grown from a group of friends assembling 7”s in Ballance’s bedroom to become one of the most influential independent record labels in the country, releasing the work of artists such as: The Magnetic Fields, Neutral Milk Hotel, Lambchop, Spoon, M. Ward, Arcade Fire, Caribou, She & Him, Superchunk and many more.

MPress Records was founded in 1996 by award-winning art-pop chanteuse/keyboardist Rachael Sage, who has released seven albums of "wildly expressive, moody, edgy folk" (PASTE) on the New York-based imprint. Sage, who plays over 150 dates a year throughout the U.S. and Europe, is a John Lennon Songwriting Contest Grand Prize Winner (Rock) and received the 2005 Independent Music Award for Best Singer-Songwriter. MPress Records' latest project is a compilation series entitled "New Arrivals” for more information visit: www.newarrivalscd.com AND www.mpressrecords.com.

For the past 25 years, Nettwerk Records has stood by one simple statement: We Release Music That We Love. With this declaration as our guide, plus a creative, strategic and passionate staff in North America and Europe, what started in Terry McBride's Vancouver apartment two and a half decades ago has morphed into an international power house. From launching the careers of Sarah McLachlan, Skinny Puppy and Coldplay, to seeking out today's most talented artists like Old Crow Medicine Show, Morgan Page and Family of the Year, we have released over 400 albums that have amassed worldwide sales in excess of 100 million albums. We are a non-traditional record label for the non-traditional artist; we strive to embrace the ever-changing dynamic of the music industry and discover fresh and innovative ways to connect music fans with new artists and reintroduce established artists.

Based in Colorado is a master owner and song copyright owner, develops songwriters and music catalogs for projects including Film/Tv/Media. Other companies owned Old Pants Publishing

Nuclear Blast is the world leading independent Heavy Metal label as well as the top address for mail ordering CDs, Vinyls, Tickets, Merchandise like bandshirts, girlie shirts, accessories and a lot more concerning the Heavy Metal scene. The label which is specialized on Heavy Metal hosts Heavy Metal icons such as Eluveitie, Blind Guardian, Hammerfall, Nightwish, Kataklysm, Avantasia, Dimmu Borgir, Sabaton, Immortal, Edguy, Anthrax, Rhapsody of Fire, Exodus, Overkill, Eluveitie, Korpiklaani and some more big acts from Death Metal, Thrash Metal, Black Metal, Gothic, Hard Rock, Doom, Hardcore, Symphonic Metal, Power Metal, Pagan Metal and Progressive Metal. The associated mailorder where you can buy more than 30,000 different merchandise articles releases the legendary BLAST! Magazine quarterly, which is, being the mailorder catalogue, not only useful for the die-hard fans of the legendary Heavy Metal label, but also offers the latest metal fan gear for those who are interested in merchandise as such.

Partisan Records is a Brooklyn-based artist-run independent label dedicated to the unique visions of those we are so privileged to represent. We believe that artistry in its many forms essentially has a singular purpose: to create and share the next new story. At Partisan, our artists create the stories that others will tell.

Photo Finish Records is an independent record label located in New York, NY. The label was started in 2006 by booking agent Matt Galle. Photo Finish is known for its diverse roster including punk bands, indie rock bands, and hip hop artists. The label's first release was in November 2006 when they put out the debut Envy On The Coast five song EP. Shortly after, they signed Danger Radio, and released their EP and full length record. Photo Finish saw huge success with their next signing, 3OH!3. The band's debut album WANT debuted at #88 and peaked at #44 on the Billboard Top 200 Chart. Their hit Don't Trust Me soared to #1 on the Top 40 Charts and ended up selling over 2.5 million digital tracks.

Music production, songwriting, artist development, A&R, record label. Minker Monk Music is the music production and artist development division of Phull Entertainment. Metro Reactive Records is the new record label division of Phull Entertainment.

Polyvinyl is an independent record label with a diverse family of bands, including: of Montreal, Deerhoof, Vivian Girls, Owen, Japandroids, Braid, American Football and more. Polyvinyl celebrates its 15th year anniversary in 2011.

New York-based Razor & Tie Entertainment is one of the fastest growing independent entertainment companies in the United States and is the parent company of Kidz Bop, LLC. Razor & Tie successfully sells audio and video products through traditional retail distribution, direct response television advertising and ecommerce based websites. Founded by co-owners Cliff Chenfeld and Craig Balsam, Razor & Tie is a vertically-integrated company that encompasses a record company with major label distribution, a home video company, a media buying company, a music publishing business, an experienced marketing, promotion and sales team, a direct marketing operation and a growing database of entertainment consumers.

ROCK RIDGE MUSIC is striving to become the ultimate resource for established and developing artists. Rock Ridge Music is a music services company with 3 main areas of focus: - A full service record label with distribution through ADA (WMG). Rock Ridge Music can distribute hard product, digital music and mobile media worldwide. - Artist management services. Rock Ridge Music takes a long-term approach to career management, and encourages artists to trust their instincts and to stay creative. - Marketing services for clients in music, TV and film. Rock Ridge Marketing services include new media consulting, project management, and production/creative services consulting.

NY Indie label- still going strong after 30 years. From the Bad Brains to Lee Perry to Legendary Pink Dots to Bill Laswell to James Chance back on up to Dub Trio & Dr. Israel. Enjoy!

After nearly a two and a half year hiatus, S-Curve – the record label that launched the career of Joss Stone and brought the world such hits as “Stacy’s Mom” and “Who Let the Dogs Out” – re-launched in 2007 as a full-service recording and music publishing company by our founder and CEO, Steve Greenberg. Our label has released many successful records since its re-launch in October 2007 including albums by alternative pop/rock band We The Kings, critically acclaimed singer-songwriter Diane Birch, teen punk rock trio Care Bears On Fire, power pop supergroup Tinted Windows and music icon Tom Jones. S-Curve returned with much of our original staff intact, including the veteran record executive and Grammy Award winning producer Greenberg, label President Steve Yegelwel and COO Marty Maidenberg. Marketing executives Jennifer Grossbach and Michael Collin also returned from the original staff, with promotion executives Brad Davidson and Dan Pearson joining us in our quest to bring terrific music to the world. At S-Curve, we like to make records that sound completely original. We’re not looking for the “next” anybody. We are interested in uniquely talented recording artists who can inspire passion and make listeners FEEL something! We love our artists and the records that we make and we hope that you will, too. We the Kings’ manager Brett Disend (who must know a thing or two because he also manages Boys like Girls and Metro Station) has this to say about us: “Having worked with the team from S-Curve in the past, I believe there is no one in the business with more focus and long term dedication to developing new artists. They’ve always had an incredible batting average with regard to breaking artists.” Thanks, Brett. In its first incarnation, S-Curve Records was founded in 2000 and entered the market with a bang with its first major release “Who Let the Dogs Out” by Baha Men. The album went on to sell four million albums worldwide, win a Grammy Award, and become a pop culture phenomenon. Artists on S-Curve have sold over 14 million albums, including hits such as “Stacy’s Mom” by Fountains of Wayne, “Check Yes, Juliet” by We The Kings and the first two albums by British soul singer Joss Stone. We hope you enjoy our artists’ music. And please remember to buckle up for safety. It’s the law.

Secretly Canadian

Founded by Nate Yetton in 2008, sensibility music is an independent company devoted to artist development, management, recording, marketing and licensing. Sensibility’s flagship artist, The Civil Wars, recently won two Grammy Awards for their debut album, Barton Hollow, which has sold over 400,000 records since its February 2011 release.

In the early 1960’s, Eugene (Gene) Lucchesi, Sr. founded The Sounds of Memphis Studio and productions. Over the next few years his company started several publishing companies: Beckie Publishing, Il Gatto, Sounds of Memphis and By-Gene Music; all Tennessee Corporations. He also started his own recording labels: Crystal, X-L, Pen and SOM. In 1965, Gene cut a record on his X-L label on a group called... Sam the Sham and the Pharaohs. Every label he took the record to turned him down. However, Gene believed in this song and ran off 1,000 copies and it soon became a regional hit. It also got the attention of MGM records. Thirty days after being released on the MGM label, this song had sold 1,000,000 copies. This song was a #1 hit in the United States and all over the world. And, it was #1 on the charts in Germany for 42 straight weeks! This song is now a pop classic and its title is “Wooly Bully”! Once the Sounds of Memphis Studio, production companies and Beckie Publishing had attracted national and international notice, MGM and Sounds of Memphis entered into a joint agreement. Over the next few years close to 100 songs were released on the MGM and MGM/SOM labels. In 1984, the SOM studio and publishing companies were each sold separately. Although the studio has changed hands (and names) over the last few years, the publishing company was sold and continues to be owned and operated by Linda Lucchesi, Gene’s daughter. Linda formed Simply Grand Music, Inc. whose catalog includes all of the songs from SOM Publishing, Beckie Publishing, Il Gatto and By-Gene which are affiliated with BMI. In addition, Linda formed Memphis Town Music, Inc. which is affiliated with ASCAP.

Sumerian Records is a cutting-edge rock label based in Los Angeles and Washington, DC started "By Artists, For Artists." While the brand is most known for being the staple for modern day progressive heavy music, Sumerian continues to diversify their roster beyond any one genre. 2011 saw the label have a Top 10 Billboard release w/ Asking Alexandria hitting #9 as well as a critically-acclaimed #1 iTunes Short Film in 7 countries that saw three music videos all connected as a story. Sumerian Records is a true lifestyle identity among fans, having over 270,000 likes on Facebook which puts them in the top 5 of any record label on the social network, beating out Roadrunner, Epitaph, Victory and many others. Sumerian has their own stage each year at the Rockstar Mayhem Festival Tour and is one of the highest merch sellers of label shirts in the business.

Perhaps more so than any other, Tommy Boy epitomizes the ideal independent record label, with one glaring exception: success. Tommy Boy achieved it; most did not. Since the independent record label rush of the early 1980’s, most companies have faded into obscurity, but Tommy Boy remained important and has consistently released high quality music by innovating, not imitating trends, and the results are clear. Besides gaining respect from cutting-edge fans, DJs, and audiophiles worldwide, Tommy Boy is among the largest self-distributed labels in America with numerous multi-platinum and gold records to its credit.

The Tummy Touch Music Group has developed from its roots as a cult UK record label and club night into an international group of companies with a 360° vision for the modern music landscape, incorporating record labels, a music publishing company, a production music company and an artist and catalogue management division. Our unparalleled hands on experience has given us a unique insight into all aspects of today's music industry. We have offices on both sides of the Atlantic and a network of partners across the world so are able to provide our artists, writers and clients with a true 24/7 “one stop” music service. With over 40 years of combined experience in producing, promoting and profiting from cutting edge recorded and live music, founders and managing directors Matt Smith and Tim Lee have their sights aimed high.

Label / Management

Wicked Cool Records is the Garage Rock label founded by Steven Van Zandt in 2005. The label evolved out of Van Zandt’s weekly syndicated radio show Little Steven’s Underground Garage, as it became clear that some of the best Rock and Roll wasn’t receiving the support and dedication it deserved. Wicked Cool not only has an amazing roster, they have created a merchandise division and an ambitious direct-to-consumer strategy, embracing social media and the best technology. Bands on Wicked Cool include The Chesterfield Kings (USA), The Len Price 3 (UK), The Woggles (USA), The Breakers (Denmark), The Launderettes (Norway), The Contrast (UK), Cocktail Slippers (Norway), The Chevelles (Australia), The Launderettes (Norway), The Urges (Ireland), and more.

Wind-up Records is a privately-owned, full-service music entertainment firm founded in 1997. The Company has successfully launched numerous multi-platinum artists, including Evanescence, Creed, Seether, and Finger Eleven. Since its inception nearly 15 years ago, the Company has shipped over 60 million units worldwide generating over $700 million in gross revenue. Wind-up has garnered seven multi-platinum albums (including one diamond – sales over 10 million) and seven gold albums. The Company has licensed music to high-profile television shows and motion pictures and has released several motion picture soundtracks, most notably, the platinum selling, “Walk the Line”. Combining a team of creative A&R scouts, in-house writers, and engineers with its own recording studio and housing in New York City, Wind-up cultivates a fluid and collaborative recording process with its artists, independent of points in their career. Pioneering the 360 degree deal, Wind-up takes advantage of its other business entities, including several publishing companies, a touring division, and Pronto Merch, LLC, a full-scale retail, online, and tour merchandising company.

X5 Music Group is European based with New York City offices. X5 is an Independent music label specialized in the digital download market. X5 licenses digital rights from selected media partners for the sales and marketing of music. X5 product portfolio currently contains about 80,000 masters in various genres. The products are marketed and sold via a wide range of on-line music stores, mobile operators and mobile handset manufacturers on a global basis.

XL Recordings was launched by Nick Halkes, Tim Palmer and Richard Russell with Beggars in 1989 to release its rave and dance music. The label has grown into one of the most commercially successful and influential independent labels in the world operating across a range of genres.

Yamaha Entertainment Group is the champion of the musician. They create music. They promote music. They partner with artists to help sell music. Yamaha Entertainment Group is helping artists achieve long-term creative and financial success while providing consumers with the highest-quality music content and music related experiences available. Founded by Chris Gero, YEG is artist branding, recorded music production, concert production, content development, film production, tour support, product placement, and artist relations, all rolled into one. Backed by the power of the largest music manufacturer in the world, Yamaha Entertainment Group brings you digital downloads, albums, videos, websites, experiences, and one-of-a-kind merchandise. www.yamahaentertainmentgroup.com

Yep Roc Records is a label for music lovers. Rather than focus on one genre or niche of music, Yep Roc strives to release records that feature some of the best, most soulful music of any kind. Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/yeproc Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/yeproc

Veteran promotion man STEVE ZAP announces the official launch of Z-ENTERTAINMENT RECORDS, based in Los Angeles The label will be ZAP's own record label through Z-ENTERTAINMENT, the music company he created in 2004. STEVE ZAP began his music industry career in 1986 as one of the first employees at VIRGIN RECORDS AMERICA. He later joined WARNER BROTHERS RECORDS as VP Promotion and worked there for 12 years. He also spent three years as VP Promotion for MCA RECORDS prior to heading up Z-ENTERTAINMENT, his own promotion and marketing company which focuses on FRONT LINE MANAGEMENT clients. The debut release for the label will be LAS VEGAS-based band THE CAB with their new album "Symphony Soldier." Z-entertainment recently signed COLBY O'DONIS to a management and label deal. COLBY was featured on LADY GAGA'S "Just Dance" and AKON'S "Beautiful" giving him a combined 250,000,000 views on YOUTUBE. His newest single "LIKE ME" is already spinning at top 40 and rhythmic radio. Z-Entertainment’s website is: http://www.zentertainmentla.com/

The San Francisco based Zip Records story is relatively simple. Our pitch is safe adventure; our name suggests a jolt and the artists on the label provide the kicks. Each release by the label, beginning with the first one in 1998, has hopefully been representative of its genre and every title definitely has been a labor of love by the artists. With releases by artists from Australia, Sweden, the U.S., U.K., Netherlands and many more world locations, the music is defined by accessibility and “independence”. Consisting primarily of pop and rock artists, Zip Records plays it somewhat safe, preferring artists with sparks of creativity and a sense of melody and style that will offend no one and please those who come into contact with the music. The thread which ties together the label’s releases may not be that apparent at first glance, but at least from the vantage point of Zip Records, each title has a sense of place – geographically as well as musically. In the beginning, much of the music came from Sweden (Dorian gray, The Merrymakers, Pineforest Crunch, Safari Season, etc), Australia (The Chevelles, P76, Pearson, The Wellingtons, etc) and the U.K. (thirst, Red Letter Day, Killing for Culture, etc). This covered the years from 1998 to 2004. From 2004 to the present, with the odd band from Serbia and Italy, Zip Records expanded to include more artists from the U.S. (Smash Palace, Ed Rogers, Mary Lees Corvette, Wanderlust, etc) and more recently allied itself with a Dutch label to release and promote Birgit (Schuurman) , Kensington, a balladeer, Jelka van Houten, Samuel Wilson, etc. With distribution through MRI/SONY in the U.S. and Rough Trade in the Benelux countries, Zip Records remains a small label with an eclectic roster of guitar pop, singer/songwriter, punk, hard rock, hip hop and even jazz improvisations by Defunkt trombonist Joe Bowie and Ernst Glerum (due in the fall of 2013)!