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Record Label

Classic British Record Labels

Photograph of the blog post author, Annika Hope

Annika Hope

20.1.2023

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Classic British record labels are labels that have been active in the UK music industry for many years. These labels have had a huge influence on the development of popular music in the UK, and have been responsible for launching the careers of some of the biggest names in music. 

Some of the most well-known classic British record labels include EMI, Polydor, Island, and Chrysalis. These labels have been responsible for launching the careers of some of the most iconic British artists, such as The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, David Bowie, and Pink Floyd.

These labels have also had a huge influence on the development of genres such as rock, pop, and punk. EMI, for example, was responsible for signing The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, two of the most influential bands in the history of rock music. Similarly, Island Records was responsible for launching the careers of Bob Marley and U2, two of the most iconic acts in the history of pop and punk music respectively.

Classic British record labels have been instrumental in shaping the sound of modern music and have been responsible for launching some of the most iconic artists of all time. They remain an integral part of the UK music industry, and their influence can still be felt today.

EMI Records

EMI Records is a British record label that was founded in 1931 and is now owned by Universal Music Group. It is one of the world’s largest record labels, with a roster of artists that includes the likes of The Beatles, Coldplay, Katy Perry, Pink Floyd, and many more. 

The label is known for its pioneering work in the pop and rock music genres, as well as its commitment to artist development and its diverse roster of talent. EMI Records has been a major force in the music industry for nearly a century, and its influence is still felt today.

Polydor Records

Polydor Records is a British record label, founded in Germany in 1898 by the Polyphon-Musikwerke AG. It is now part of the Universal Music Group. 

Polydor has released some of the most influential and successful records of all time, including artists such as U2, Madonna, The Rolling Stones, The Who, ABBA, and more. The label has a long history of success, having been the first label to sign both The Beatles and The Beach Boys.

Polydor’s current roster includes many of the world’s most popular and successful artists, including Lady Gaga, Rihanna, Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift, and more. Polydor also has a strong presence in the world of hip-hop, having signed artists such as Drake, Nicki Minaj, and Kendrick Lamar.

Polydor is one of the most successful and influential record labels in the world and has been responsible for launching the careers of some of the biggest stars in music. The label continues to be at the forefront of the music industry and is sure to remain a major player for years to come.

Chrysalis

Chrysalis Records is a British record label that was founded in 1968. 

It was initially created as a subsidiary of EMI, but it eventually became an independent company. Chrysalis Records has released albums from a variety of genres, including rock, pop, jazz, blues, and folk. Some of the most notable artists to have released albums on the label include Blondie, Jethro Tull, The Pretenders, The Police, and Billy Idol. 

The label has also released soundtracks for films such as The Blues Brothers and Flash Gordon. Chrysalis Records was purchased by EMI in 1991 and is now part of the Universal Music Group.

You can find a full list of classic British record labels here.


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