HMV launches new record label
Entertainment retailer HMV has launched a new record label called 1921 Records.
It has also signed singer-songwriter India Arkin who will release her debut album on vinyl after HMV staff saw her perform at their shop in her university town of Newcastle.
HMV said the new label harks back to its roots due to 1921 being the year that The Gramophone Company opened His Master’s Voice on London’s Oxford Street. Ten years later, the company joined forces with Columbia Gramophone Company to form Electric and Musical Industries which is more commonly known as EMI.
Doug Putman, owner of HMV, said: “India’s music is absolutely incredible and we’re thrilled to make her our first 1921 Records signing. She has such passion for her craft, and she’s a true musician who writes, plays instruments and performs.
“With our new label, we want to do what we can to help debut artists make their mark in a tough industry. Streaming algorithms mean it’s hard for new artists to get their voices heard, so we’re giving them the chance to get their albums in our stores where music fans can discover them for themselves.
“This is just the beginning for 1921 Records – it’s our mission to get more fantastic albums by debut artists into the homes of music fans. HMV is leading the way in the vinyl revival, so it makes sense for us to create our own label and promote the music we know our shoppers care about.”
Since the start of the year, more than 1,000 grassroots gigs have taken place at the retailer’s stores through its HMV Live & Local programme. In addition, over 100 are set to take place on National Album Day on 15 October as part of its commitment to give new musical talent a platform.
HMV has opened nine new stores this year and will launch a further three before Christmas.
