“Our goal is 12 artists signed in the first year, with each of them having an album released within one year of signing,” he said. “Other artists we’ve signed, or are in talks with, are Josh Weston, Libby Dietrix, 93Seven Band with members of former all-female Hot Number, Clemmer, Anna Baugham, Willy Clark Band and several other well-known names I’ll keep quiet for now.
“Labels take time to build out and we’re doing it one step at a time, first focusing on quality talent and producing quality albums for them.”
Invention City Records plans to cultivate a stable of new acts and established performers.
“Dayton has a rich musical history, so much so our city can add an entire genre to its list of inventions and a long list of notable acts,” Mix said. “We feel much respect for the shoulders we stand on and want to honor that.”
The recording industry has been in a state of flux since the proliferation of high speed Internet made music streaming possible. Despite the changes, Mix believes he has plenty to offer talented acts.
“ICR is designed to be a collection of the best talent from this town that we believe in, want to develop long-term and want to produce and promote to help put Dayton back on the world stage for music,” he said. “The label has, and will continue to have, a grassroots, independent artist-feel because rather than bilking artists for their hard earned money, we’re supporting them and hoping to help each of them make a viable career out of their music.”
Mix goes on to list a series of benefits the label can provide its acts.
“Our people, facilities and production talent, belief in their talent and investment in it, our respect for their creative control, the family approach we take, the incredible fairness of the deals we’ve made with them, the music-making-money distribution, licensing, syncing and booking connections we have and our commitment to giving them the best we can while we grow together.”
Upcoming releases from Invention City Records include Libby Dietrix, 93Seven Band and the Willy Clark Band.
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