Labels are the flagbearers of our favorite new artists, and we support the role that black-run labels have had on dance music since the beginning of recorded music. We stand in solidarity with black-run record labels. And in our efforts to present DJ education in the form of online courses, we feel it’s time to shine a little light on three labels presenting fresh stables of upcoming artists.
Sneer Records
Sneer Records is the brainchild of funk ambassador Brett Eclectic. The DIY aesthetic and curatorial approach behind Sneer Records is also evident in the choice of artists, a wide range which includes electro, boogie, future funk, synthwave, ambient and more. Plenty of territory to cover if you have an unrestricted listening ear or two. Check out Sneer Records.
Morph Tracks
Morph Tracks is a small label with a very loyal following. Based in Atlanta, GA, the label currently lists only two artists: Leonce, whose blend of American urban and experimental electronica results in a hardline style that reflects his southern (New Orleans) upbringing. And JSPORT, whose soca and West Indian influences are hammered into accessible shape for modern dance floor audiences. Check out Morph Tracks.
NDATL
Also based in Atlanta, GA is NDATL, a focused community run by Kai Alce, the Haitian-born New Yorker who describes himself as ‘a DJ for DJing’s sake’. Simply true to the music, Alce has built NDATL (which stands for New York, Detroit, Atlanta) to connect the power of his soca-jazz background to a list of club-influenced artists including Miranda Nicole, Ed Nine and Cherry Pie. Check out NDATL.
Even after all the gates have been opened, labels are still the backbone of the music industry. We still require tastemakers and risk-takers to put the good stuff in front of us, and hats off to all those doing it despite - or perhaps because of - the challenges. Get into the game by upping your DJ skills with a course from DJ Courses Online today.
John Bartmann is a music producer and DJ.