Deep House is more than just a genre; it’s a journey into the intricate layers of electronic music, where soulful melodies blend seamlessly with rhythm and bass. Emerging from the vibrant dance music scene of the 1980s, Deep House has grown into a sophisticated genre that captivates listeners with its rich, textured soundscapes.
In this intricate world of Deep House, record labels play a pivotal role. They are not merely facilitators of distribution; they are curators, innovators, and influencers. A record label’s vision and expertise help shape the direction of the genre, providing a platform for emerging talent and ensuring that each track meets the high standards that fans expect. Labels are the gatekeepers of quality and creativity, guiding the genre’s evolution while staying true to its roots. Their commitment to nurturing artists and their ability to bring fresh sounds to the forefront are essential to keeping Deep House dynamic and relevant.
This guide delves into some up and coming record labels, as well as a handful of well-established ones. 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 AND COMING LABELS
Rose Avenue, founded by Australian trio RÜFÜS DU SOL, started as a necessity–a way for the group to release their music in North America. It quickly emerged as a testament to their commitment to nurturing and expanding the boundaries of electronic music. The label is a testament to the group’s desire to create a platform that reflects their artistic vision and supports like-minded artists who share a passion for blending emotive melodies with innovative soundscapes.
The label not only provides a space for RÜFÜS DU SOL to release their own music but also serves as a launchpad for emerging talent. Through its carefully curated roster, Rose Avenue continues to contribute to the evolution of deep and melodic house, resonating with fans who crave both depth and originality in their listening experiences.
Notable artists include:
Rose Avenue can be contacted via their website HERE.
PIV Records, established in 2015, is a prominent house music label renowned for its innovative approach to the genre. Founded by Prunk, the label has made a significant impact by blending contemporary sounds with the classic elements of New York and Chicago House. PIV Records quickly garnered attention for its distinctive style, which combines modern production techniques with the timeless grooves of house music.
The label’s mission is to make house music accessible and inclusive. PIV has built a reputation for its high-quality releases and its ability to push the boundaries of the genre while maintaining its core essence. With a roster of talented producers and a growing international presence, PIV has established residencies and showcases at key venues and festivals worldwide, including Tomorrowland Belgium, Fabric London, and Amnesia Ibiza.
Notable artists include:
PIV accepts demo submissions HERE.
8BIT RECORDS
8bit Records, founded by the renowned German DJs and producers, Nick Curly and Gorge, has established itself as a key player in the house music scene. Known for its distinctive sound that blends deep house with elements of minimal and tech house, 8bit Records has made a significant impact on the global house music landscape.
With a focus on crafting tracks that resonate with both DJs and dance music enthusiasts, 8bit Records has built a strong international presence. Its releases frequently find their way into the sets of top DJs and have become staples in clubs and festivals around the world. The label’s dedication to maintaining a unique and authentic sound continues to drive its success and influence in the house music community.
Notable artists include:
8bit can be reached via email at [email protected]. Demos should be submitted as Soundcloud links; further information can be found on their Facebook.
UP THE STUSS
Up The Stuss, founded by Chris Stussy, is a dynamic and emerging label within the electronic music scene. The label is known for its eclectic and vibrant approach, blending deep house, minimal, and techno influences to produce a distinct and modern sound.With a keen eye for cutting-edge production and an emphasis on creative freedom, Up The Stuss has built a reputation for pushing boundaries while staying true to the core elements of dance music.
Its releases have garnered attention in clubs and festivals worldwide, reflecting the label’s growing influence and its dedication to fostering a global community of electronic music enthusiasts.
Notable artists include:
Up The Stuss can be reached via their management email at [email protected].
OHRAL
Ohral Records is an independent label founded by Hardy Heller, and is known for its distinctive approach to techno and deep house. Based in Germany, Ohral was founded with a vision to push the boundaries of electronic music, focusing on innovative soundscapes and forward-thinking production techniques.
Ohral’s releases are characterized by their deep, immersive sound and a commitment to high-quality, cutting-edge music. The label’s emphasis on artistic freedom and experimentation has garnered it a dedicated following in the global electronic music scene.
Notable artists include:
Ohral can be reached via email at [email protected].
Heist Recordings, founded in 2013 by Dam Swindle, has emerged as a notable label in the electronic music scene, specializing in house, disco, and funk-infused sounds. Heist is celebrated for its commitment to delivering high-quality, groove-centric tracks that blend classic influences with contemporary production techniques.
The label has gained recognition for its unique approach, combining a deep respect for traditional house music with innovative and fresh elements. Heist’s roster features a range of artists known for their ability to create infectious rhythms and distinctive sounds that resonate on dance floors worldwide.
Notable artists include:
Heist Recordings can be reached via email at [email protected], or their Bandcamp.
FUSE LONDON
Fuse London, established in 2008, is a distinguished record label known for its pivotal role in the deep house and techno scenes. It has garnered a reputation for its cutting-edge sound and innovative approach to electronic music.
In addition to its musical output, Fuse London is closely associated with its renowned Fuse club nights, which have become iconic in the London underground scene. These events, known for their immersive atmosphere and top-tier lineups, further cement the label’s influence and presence in the global electronic music community.
Notable artists include:
Fuse London can be reached via email at [email protected].
INNERVISIONS
Innervisions, founded in 2005 by the acclaimed Berlin-based DJ and producer duo Âme and Dixon, is a highly influential record label, renowned for its distinctive blend of deep house, techno, and soulful sounds.
The label is celebrated for showcasing a roster of artists who bring fresh, emotive, and intricate elements to the genre. Innervisions’ releases are characterized by their depth, precision, and melodic richness, reflecting the founders’ vision of creating music that resonates on both a personal and universal level.
Innervisions has also made a significant impact through its iconic events and showcases, which have become renowned for their immersive experiences and exceptional lineups.
Notable artists include:
Demos can be submitted to Innervisions via email at [email protected]. They can additionally be reached at [email protected].
SNAKE BEAT
Snake Beat is an independent, Italian record label, established in 2005. Specializing in all genres of house, the label blends contemporary sounds with classic influences to create a distinct and engaging musical identity.
While still small, you will find Snake Beat’s releases climbing the Beatport charts, as well as making their way into club sets around the world.
Notable artists include:
Demos can be submitted via email at [email protected].
Transa Records is an independent label who, despite their smaller size, has been climbing the ranks. Focusing on deep house, melodic house, and tech house, the label brings modern sounds and techniques to classic house styles. As an up and coming label, Transa Records is making itself known both on the charts, and in the clubs.
Notable artists include:
Demos can be submitted to Transa via their portal HERE, or via email at [email protected]. Email submission instructions can be found on their Soundcloud.
ESTABLISHED LABELS
Crosstown Rebels, founded in 2003 by Damian Lazarus, is a distinguished record label known for its influential role in the electronic music scene. Based in London, the label has become synonymous with cutting-edge house and techno music, consistently pushing the boundaries of the genre with its innovative and genre-blending releases.
The label’s roster includes a diverse array of artists who are known for their distinctive sounds and creative approaches. With a focus on high-quality production and unique musical visions, Crosstown Rebels has played a pivotal role in shaping the modern electronic music landscape.
The label’s releases are celebrated for their originality and have achieved widespread acclaim in clubs and festivals worldwide. Crosstown Rebels continues to be a driving force in the industry, dedicated to fostering new talent and delivering exceptional music that resonates with a global audience.
Notable artists include:
Demos can be submitted to Crosstown Rebels via email at [email protected].
DEFECTED RECORDS
Defected Records, founded in 1999 by Simon Dunmore, is a prominent British label renowned for its influential role in the house music scene. Based in London, Defected has become a cornerstone of the genre, celebrated for its commitment to high-quality house music with a focus on soulful, deep, and funky sounds.
Over the years, Defected has built a reputation for championing both established and emerging artists, consistently delivering chart-topping hits and club anthems. The label’s diverse roster includes notable names such as Purple Disco Machine, Dennis Ferrer, and Honey Dijon, among others.
Defected’s impact extends beyond its releases, as it is also known for hosting successful events and festivals, including the Defected Croatia festival. The label’s dedication to fostering a vibrant, global house music community continues to drive its success and solidify its position as a leading force in the industry.
Notable artists include:
Demos can be submitted to Defected or any of their subsidiaries HERE.
Spinnin’ Deep is a prominent record label specializing in deep house and other subgenres of electronic dance music (EDM). Launched as a sublabel of the renowned Spinnin’ Records in 2014, Spinnin’ Deep focuses on showcasing and nurturing talent within the deep house genre. The label quickly gained recognition for its high-quality releases and has become a go-to platform for both established and emerging artists in the deep house scene. With its strong emphasis on innovative sounds and production, Spinnin’ Deep has played a significant role in shaping the direction of modern electronic music.
Notable artists include:
Demos can be submitted via the Spinnin talent pool HERE.
TIPS & TRICKS
When preparing your music for release and submission to a 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:
