Big Loud Records is often described as a "pissed-off startup" - not an independent label per se, but rather one that has achieved significant success while maintaining its independence. According to the three principals of Big Loud Records, including Seth England and Joey Moi, who are joined by Craig Wiseman in running the label, their path to success was influenced by several iconic indie labels from history.
The label's founders often cite Motown as a key inspiration, citing Hitsville USA - a boxed set of Motown music - as a treasured piece of physical product in England's office. This nostalgia is reflected in Big Loud's approach to songwriting and artist development, with the three principals aiming to create an environment where artists and songwriters can collaborate closely, much like at Motown.
While not a traditional independent label, Big Loud Records maintains its independence through careful management of distribution deals and avoiding financial backing from major labels. The founders have also spoken about their admiration for other indie labels, such as Clive Calder's Jive Records and Zomba Publishing, which they see as models for entrepreneurial success in the music industry.
One notable example of Big Loud's approach is its relationship with country superstar Morgan Wallen, who has achieved unprecedented commercial success on the label. According to England, Wallen's willingness to collaborate with other songwriters has led to a surge in creative output, with many artists and songwriters praising the environment at Big Loud Records for fostering innovation.
Morgan Wallen's ability to draw out innovative ideas from his collaborators is also a key factor in his success at Big Loud. Wiseman recalls one of their songwriters once saying that they would never write again if they knew Morgan was listening, highlighting the impact Wallen has on his team and its creative output.
While it may be tempting to describe Big Loud Records as the "house that Wallen built," a more accurate assessment is that it's the house where great songs are built, with Wallen turning it into a thriving record label. The key to their success lies in their ability to empower artists and songwriters through collaboration and creative freedom.
In short, Big Loud Records' success story can be attributed to its unique approach to entrepreneurship, creativity, and artist development, drawing inspiration from iconic indie labels throughout music history.
The label's founders often cite Motown as a key inspiration, citing Hitsville USA - a boxed set of Motown music - as a treasured piece of physical product in England's office. This nostalgia is reflected in Big Loud's approach to songwriting and artist development, with the three principals aiming to create an environment where artists and songwriters can collaborate closely, much like at Motown.
While not a traditional independent label, Big Loud Records maintains its independence through careful management of distribution deals and avoiding financial backing from major labels. The founders have also spoken about their admiration for other indie labels, such as Clive Calder's Jive Records and Zomba Publishing, which they see as models for entrepreneurial success in the music industry.
One notable example of Big Loud's approach is its relationship with country superstar Morgan Wallen, who has achieved unprecedented commercial success on the label. According to England, Wallen's willingness to collaborate with other songwriters has led to a surge in creative output, with many artists and songwriters praising the environment at Big Loud Records for fostering innovation.
Morgan Wallen's ability to draw out innovative ideas from his collaborators is also a key factor in his success at Big Loud. Wiseman recalls one of their songwriters once saying that they would never write again if they knew Morgan was listening, highlighting the impact Wallen has on his team and its creative output.
While it may be tempting to describe Big Loud Records as the "house that Wallen built," a more accurate assessment is that it's the house where great songs are built, with Wallen turning it into a thriving record label. The key to their success lies in their ability to empower artists and songwriters through collaboration and creative freedom.
In short, Big Loud Records' success story can be attributed to its unique approach to entrepreneurship, creativity, and artist development, drawing inspiration from iconic indie labels throughout music history.