Highlighted Profile: Deadbeats
Deadbeats, an artist-run record label based in Toronto, Canada, has been making waves in the electronic and dance music scene since its launch in March 2016. The label, founded by Zeds Dead, is particularly known for its focus on jungle and hardware-driven sounds, although it is not limited to a specific genre or bpm.
The label's origin and historical background are not extensively detailed, but Deadbeats has quickly established itself as a label that prioritizes the artist's vision. They strive to put out the ultimate version of each project that the artist has in mind.
Deadbeats boasts a diverse roster of artists, although a specific list is not publicly available. Notable collaborations include Subtronics, Griz, IMANU, Peekaboo, Blanke, Tape B, Sippy, A Hundred Drums, Chee, Rusko, Caspa, Coki, Emalkay, The Others, Subscape, and more.
One of the unique aspects of Deadbeats is their approach to events. They host approximately 20-25 label events per year, each featuring unique lineups tailored to the city. This sets them apart from other labels and contributes to their growing reputation.
In addition to their music releases, Deadbeats is also known for hosting the 3rd largest hot dog eating competition in America every July 4th in Denver.
The label's A&R process involves keeping an ear to the underground for emerging artists and sounds that they believe will grow over the next 6-12 months. They do not sign artists exclusively and are not concerned with artist size or social growth, focusing instead on the track/release and if they believe their audience will respond.
Deadbeats is very focused on groove in their music selection and tends to lean more towards sounds with a hip-hop or rhythmic element, rather than those influenced by metal and rock. The city of Toronto, where Deadbeats is based, has a strong underground music scene with a history of fostering collaboration between local artists across various genres.
Deadbeats made its debut with a single release by Zeds Dead x Freddie Gibbs "Back Home" in 2016, and the first artist released after Zeds Dead was Nebbra in November of the same year. Recently, Deadbeats released a 15-track compilation in partnership with Brownies & Lemonade focused on Drum & Bass called "Deadbeats & Brownies".
For more detailed and up-to-date information about Deadbeats, visiting their official website or social media channels is recommended.
Deadbeats, maintaining its emphasis on music that resonates with the artist's vision, often collaborates with various artists in the electronic music scene, such as Subtronics, Griz, IMANU, and Blanke. To keep expanding their roster and sound, Deadbeats' A&R actively listens to the underground for emerging artists and trends in technology, business, and entertainment.
