By the end of this post, you will have a great overview of the 10 best up and coming dubstep record labels that are perfect for your first demo. All of these brands have been hand curated based on our experience releasing on these exact dubstep focused record labels.
What is Dubstep?:
Dubstep is a subgenre of bass music under the umbrella of EDM. It’s characterized by its heavy bass and complex sound design. Dubstep often has a tempo between 140-150 and can be fused with a number of adjacent subgenres such as Melodic Bass.
Dubstep has emerged as a genre that commands both raw energy and intricate artistry. From its underground roots in the UK to becoming a global phenomenon, dubstep has revolutionized the electronic music landscape with its distinctive wobble basslines and innovative rhythms. As the genre continues to evolve, aligning yourself with a reputable record label or collective is more crucial than ever for advancing your career and reaching wider audiences.
This guide delves into some up and coming record labels, as well as a handful of well-established ones that are perfect for you to send your first demo. With a brief background and overview of notable artists, there is also a demo submission email or portal link included for each one.
Additionally, we’ll provide some tips for preparing and submitting your music, as well as good practices for interactions with labels and A&R representatives. By mastering these elements, you’ll be better positioned to make a powerful impression and harness the full potential of your music within a dynamic and competitive dubstep scene.
Up & Coming Dubstep Record Labels: Our Top 10 to Send Your First Demo
MALIGNANT MUSIC:
Malignant Music is an independent dubstep record label founded in 2019 by the prominent Australian dubstep producer Marauda. With Marauda’s vision steering the label, Malignant Music has carved out a distinct niche in the genre’s evolving landscape.
The label’s releases consist of Dubstep, Riddim, and Tearout. It was conceived as a platform to showcase not only Marauda’s own music, but also to foster a community of forward-thinking producers and to deliver intense, genre-defying sounds.
Notable artists include:
- Marauda
- Hekler
- Svdden Death
- Versa
- Hukae
Malignant Music can be reached at [email protected].
BASSRUSH RECORDS:
Bassrush Records has emerged as a significant force in the bass music scene. Founded in 2002, they started to regularly release tracks around 2017. Established by the influential Bassrush brand, which is renowned for its iconic events and festivals, the label was created to provide a platform for groundbreaking bass-driven music and emerging artists.
Bassrush Records was born out of the success of Bassrush’s events, which have long been a staple in the electronic music community. As a subsidiary of the prominent Insomniac Music Group, Bassrush Records has benefited from the established connections and industry expertise of its parent company, positioning itself as a key player in the bass music genre.
While it is home to all subgenres of Dubstep, it has its roots in Drum & Bass.
Notable artists include:
- Adventure Club
- Dirty Audio
- Kompany
- Barely Alive
- Subtronics
Demos for Bassrush Records can be submitted via the Insomniac submission portal HERE.
WAKAAN
Wakaan, founded by the renowned producer Liquid Stranger in 2015, is an independent dubstep record label dedicated to exploring and expanding the boundaries of bass music and electronic soundscapes. With its roots deeply embedded in the creative and experimental side of bass music, Wakaan quickly set itself apart.
Liquid Stranger created the label to offer a platform for artists who share his vision of pushing sonic limits, and his commitment to originality. Genres include all types of Dubstep, but notably experimental styles.
Notable artists include:
- GRiZ
- Liquid Stranger
- Tynan
- LSDream
Wakaan can be reached at [email protected].
SOUNDS OF MAYHEM
Sounds of Mayhem, established in 2016 by Australian producer PhaseOne, has made a notable impact in the electronic music scene with its distinctive focus on high-energy, boundary-pushing sounds. Known for its commitment to exploring the more intense and experimental sides of electronic music, the label has become a key player in shaping modern bass and dubstep.
The label’s vision was to provide a platform for artists who push the envelope of sound design and production, offering a home for those who excel in creating aggressive and immersive auditory experiences. Sounds of Mayhem quickly garnered attention for its bold approach and commitment to quality, carving out a unique space in the competitive electronic music landscape.
Notable artists include:
- PhaseOne
- Dubloadz
- Leotrix
- DVEIGHT
Sounds of Mayhem receives demo submissions at [email protected].
CYCLOPS RECORDINGS
Cyclops Recordings was founded in 2019 by Dubstep heavy-hitter Subtronics, known for his distinctive and high-impact style. The label was launched with a clear vision: to create a platform for the most innovative and dynamic sounds in bass music. It was designed to push the boundaries of traditional dubstep and bass music. Cyclops Recordings was introduced to offer a space where emerging and established artists could explore new sonic territories and connect with a community of like-minded creators and fans.
Notable artists:
- Subtronics
- LAXX
- Tynan
- Rezz
Cyclops Recordings can be reached at [email protected].
DEADBEATS
Deadbeats was established by the influential electronic music duo Zeds Dead. This dubstep record label was created to provide a platform for artists who share the duo’s vision of blending various genres and exploring new sonic landscapes. With their deep roots in electronic music and a passion for discovering fresh talent, Zeds Dead aimed to build a label that champions creativity and innovation in the genre.
The label mainly consists of Dubstep and Trap, but is also home to a variety of other genres.
Notable artists include:
- 1788-L
- Big Gigantic
- Flux Pavilion
- Herobust
- Slumberjack
- Yookie
Deadbeats accepts demo submissions via their demo portal HERE.
KANNIBALEN RECORDS
Kannibalen Records began in 2011, and was founded by Canadian duo Black Tiger Sex Machine. The label reflects BTSM’s cutting edge approach to dance music, including their unique style and powerful live performance; in turn, it offers a space where artists can experiment with new sounds and ideas.
The name “Kannibalen” reflects the label’s intense and edgy approach, hinting at a bold and aggressive musical identity.
Notable artists include:
- Apashe
- Dabin
- Kai Wachi
- BTSM
Kannibalen Records can be reached at [email protected].
DPMO RECORDS
DPMO Records was founded in 2020 by UK DJ and producer FuntCase. It is an imprint within the larger dubstep record label Circus Records family. With a focus on dubstep and bass music, DPMO serves as a platform for both emerging and established artists.
FuntCase, known for his influential role in the dubstep community, established the label to provide a space for innovative and high-quality music that reflects his own artistic vision. Genres generally consist of Dubstep and Trench.
Notable artists include:
- FuntCase
- DVEIGHT
- BadKlaat
- Doctor P
DPMO accepts demo submissions via email at [email protected].
JADU DALA RECORDS
Jadu Dala was created in 2016 to establish a space for unconventional dance music that didn’t fit with the mainstream dance labels of that time. The vision for the label reflects genre-blending styles, encompassing elements of dubstep, drum & bass, trap, and other electronic influences. Jadu Dala is known for its commitment to artistic experimentation and its role in showcasing groundbreaking talent in the electronic music scene.
Notable artists include:
- What So Not
- Peekaboo
- Holly
- RIOT
- Josh Pan
- AHEE
Jadu Dala receives demos through their submission portal HERE.
HYPNOVIZION
Hypnovizion was founded in 2022 by groundbreaking artist REZZ. With her meteoric rise in the dance music scene, the label was launched as a platform for experimental and genre-bending sounds. It has a strong focus on pushing the boundaries of electronic music and providing a home for artists who share her passion for innovative and immersive experiences.
Hypnovizion quickly garnered attention for its commitment to showcasing exciting genres including midtempo, dubstep, techno, and other electronic influences.
Notable artists include:
- REZZ
- Grabbitz
- Blanke
- What So Not
- Holly
ESTABLISHED LABELS:
MONSTERCAT
Monstercat, founded in 2011, is a prominent independent record label known for its vibrant and diverse catalog of electronic music. Originating in Vancouver, Canada, Monstercat quickly established itself as a key player in the electronic dance music scene, gaining a reputation for its eclectic mix of genres including dubstep, house, and future bass.
The label is celebrated for its distinctive branding and innovative approach to artist promotion, often leveraging digital platforms and a strong online community to connect with fans. While not a traditional Dubstep Record Label, Monstercat has become synonymous with cutting-edge electronic music and continues to be a significant force in shaping the genre’s evolving landscape.
Notable artists include
- Dirtyphonics
- Marshmello
- Ray Volpe
- Spag Heddy
- Modestep
Monstercat receives demos via their own portal HERE.
DISCIPLE RECORDINGS
Disciple Recordings was founded in 2013, and has come to be one of, if not the most prominent name in dubstep. It was originally an imprint of the now-defunct dubstep record label Never Say Die Records, but has since become a force of its own. Disciple has carved out a reputation for its diverse and high-energy roster, which includes a range of artists known for their innovative approaches to dubstep, riddim, and other bass-driven genres
Through its influential releases and strong presence in the electronic music scene, Disciple Recordings has established itself as a key player in the evolution of modern bass music.
Notable artists include:
- Barely Alive
- Virtual Riot
- Dodge and Fuski
- Eliminate
- Bandlez
Demos can be submitted at [email protected].
CIRCUS RECORDS
Circus Records was founded in 2009 by UK DJ and producer Doctor P, along with fellow artists Flux Pavilion and DJ Swan-E. Emerging from the vibrant dubstep scene, Circus Records quickly made a name for itself within electronic music.
The label’s roster boasts artists who have all contributed to its reputation for pushing boundaries and delivering high-quality, genre-defining tracks. Circus Records has grown from a niche label into a prominent force in the electronic music world, known for its distinctive style and nurturing fresh talent.
Notable artists include:
- Flux Pavilion
- Doctor P
- Rusko
- Feed Me
- Crizzly
Circus accepts demos via their portal HERE.
UKF RECORDS
UKF Records, founded in 2009, originated from the influential YouTube channel UKF Dubstep, which was established to showcase cutting-edge dubstep and electronic music at a time when dubstep was starting to take off.
The label quickly evolved to become a key player in the electronic music scene, extending its focus to drum and bass and other genres. Known for its high-quality releases and support for emerging artists, UKF Records has built a reputation for its dedication to curating and promoting innovative sounds, helping to shape the modern landscape of electronic music.
Notable artists include:
- Delta Heavy
- Xilent
- Adventure Club
- Noisia
- Chase & Status
UKF accepts demos through their portal HERE.
TIPS & TRICKS
When preparing your music for release and submission to a dubstep record label, having a thorough checklist can ensure you present your work in the best possible light. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get ready:
- Professional Mix and Master:
- Mixing: Ensure your track is mixed professionally, with balanced levels, clear separation of elements, and polished sound.
- Mastering: Have your track mastered to meet industry standards, ensuring it sounds cohesive, loud, and clear across various playback systems.
- Press Kit:
- Bio: Include a well-written artist bio that highlights your background, achievements, and musical style.
- Press Photos: Provide high-quality, professionally taken photos that represent your image.
- Music Links: Include links to your music on streaming platforms or a private link to the track you’re submitting.
- Press Coverage: If available, include any previous press coverage or reviews to demonstrate your credibility.
- Branding:
- Visual Identity: Develop a consistent visual identity, including logo, color scheme, and imagery that aligns with your music and persona.
- Artwork: Create eye-catching and professional artwork for your single or album that fits the genre and style of your music.
- Submission Materials:
- Cover Letter: Write a concise, engaging cover letter tailored to the specific record label, explaining why your music is a good fit and any relevant information about the track.
- Track Info: Include detailed information about the track, such as genre, tempo, and any relevant production notes.
- Demos: If submitting a demo, ensure it is polished and clearly labeled, even if it’s a rough version.
- Networking and Relationships:
- Industry Contacts: Build and maintain relationships with industry professionals, including A&R representatives, producers, and other artists.
- Social Media: Be active on social media platforms to build a following and engage with your audience, which can help with your visibility and credibility.
- Submission Guidelines:
- Follow Instructions: Adhere to the specific submission guidelines of each record label, including format, length, and any required information.
- Timeliness: Submit your materials in a timely manner, respecting deadlines and giving yourself enough time to address any feedback or revisions.
- Legal Considerations:
- Copyright: Ensure your music is copyrighted to protect your intellectual property.
- Contracts: Familiarize yourself with standard contract terms and be prepared to negotiate if an offer is extended.
Finding the right dubstep record label can set you up for a fast moving career in Dubstep or Bass Music. Consider working your way up on one of the small-medium sized labels as a way to start to build your following.
Our team has collectively released on all of the labels above. If you think you could use help getting your track polished and up to par with the tracks released on the top labels, reach out to us here. We’ve helped thousands of artists get their tracks signed to the industry’s top labels and we would love the opportunity to help you as well.
Happy music creating!