London-born independent music company Defected Records has collaborated with demo submission platform LabelRadar to streamline the demo submission process for emerging talent.
Through this partnership, Defected Records’ A&R team will gain access to LabelRadar’s demo submission process, allowing aspiring artists worldwide to showcase their work to key decision-makers in the music industry, the companies said in a press release on Tuesday (September 12).
LabelRadar was acquired by The Beatport Group in 2022 and is now part of the company’s Music Services division. It is overseen by music industry veteran Alex Branson, who previously worked with Warner Music Group and Ingrooves Music Group.
Defected Records is the latest label to utilize LabelRadar’s platform, joining the likes of Toolroom, Armada, Monstercat, Mixmash, Heldeep, Anjuna, NCS, Blanco y Negro, Drumcode and more.
LabelRadar artists now have the chance to submit their tracks not only to Defected Records but also to its sub-labels, including D4Dance, DFTD, Glitterbox, Big Love, Soulfuric, Nu Groove, Classic, 4TTF, DVINE Sounds, Stay True Sounds, and The Remedy Project.
Wez Saunders, CEO & Owner of Defected Records, said: “Having worked with developing acts for nearly two decades, finding and nurturing new talent is high on my agenda. Demos have historically been a challenge for us, however with LabelRadar we believe we have found a solution that will help streamline this process and enable our A&R’s more quality time to check and review demos for the labels within the Defected ecosystem.”
Ed Brew, Director of Business Development for Music Services and co-founder of LabelRadar, acknowledged Defected Records’ influence in electronic music.
“In addition to releasing some of the most celebrated tracks in electronic music, their achievements in philanthropy are a shining example of what our industry is capable of. This deal enables our artist community to have access to decision-makers at Defected, giving them their shot with one of the greatest labels in the world. We are delighted to welcome them to LabelRadar,” Brew said.
Beatport Group CEO Robb McDaniels said: “Cultivating innovation and fostering connections within the DJ music community lie at the heart of Beatport’s mission.”
“I have spent many years trying to find the best way to deal with an unrelenting inbox, and LabelRadar is the definitive solution: streamlining the process, liberating valuable time for concentrated artist development, and propelling our commitment to nurturing exceptional musical talent.”
Allan Nicoll, Defected Records
“This partnership represents a significant stride forward for LabelRadar and Beatport as we continue to reshape the dynamics of music discovery and propel the next generation of electronic music luminaries onto the global stage.”
Allan Nicoll, Head A&R of Defected Records, added: “Navigating the deluge of demos that flood any record label can be an exhilarating yet demanding experience.”
“I have spent many years trying to find the best way to deal with an unrelenting inbox, and LabelRadar is the definitive solution: streamlining the process, liberating valuable time for concentrated artist development, and propelling our commitment to nurturing exceptional musical talent.”
Defected Records was founded in 1999 by Simon Dunmore, who remained in the company as A&R Consultant following Saunders’ acquisition.
The label’s portfolio includes chart-topping dance floor hits from artists like Jamie Jones, John Summit, Hannah Wants, Masters at Work, CamelPhat, MK, Purple Disco Machine, Riva Starr, and more.
Aspiring artists can now submit their demos to Defected Records on its website.
Music Business Worldwide