Defected Records Partners with LabelRadar to Discover New Talent

12 September 2023 - Press release

Iconic house music label Defected Records today announced that it has partnered with LabelRadar, the demo submission platform within The Beatport Group’s Music Services division that streamlines the demo submission process and democratizes access to key decision-makers in the music industry. Through LabelRadar, Defected Records is now welcoming demo submissions from artists worldwide, opening its doors to fresh and innovative talents looking to make their mark on the global music scene. 

LabelRadar continues to revolutionize the music discovery process by democratizing access to key decision-makers for artists at the demo submission stage. LabelRadar is part of Beatport’s Music Services division, led by Alex Branson. By aligning forces with LabelRadar, Defected Records' A&R team gains access to a streamlined demo submission process, empowering emerging artists and the label itself to review and discover new talent efficiently. 

This marks the first instance where Defected Records has invited demo submissions. Aspiring artists now have the opportunity to submit their tracks not only to Defected Records but also to its array of esteemed sub-labels, including D4Dance, DFTD, Glitterbox, Big Love, Soulfuric, Nu Groove, Classic, 4TTF, DVINE Sounds, Stay True Sounds, and The Remedy Project. 

Ed Brew, Director of Business Development for Music Services and co-founder of LabelRadar, acknowledges the multifaceted impact of Defected Records. "Defected Records is one of the most respected and iconic labels in electronic music," Brew states. "In addition to releasing some of the most celebrated tracks in electronic music, their achievements in philanthropy are a shining example of what our industry is capable of. This deal enables our artist community to have access to decision-makers at Defected, giving them their shot with one of the greatest labels in the world. We are delighted to welcome them to LabelRadar." 

Wez Saunders, CEO & Owner of Defected Records commented: “Having worked with developing acts for nearly two decades, finding and nurturing new talent is high on my agenda. Demos have historically been a challenge for us, however with LabelRadar we believe we have found a solution that will help streamline this process and enable our A&R’s more quality time to check and review demos for the labels within the Defected ecosystem.” 

Defected Records joins labels such as Toolroom, Armada, Monstercat, Mixmash, Heldeep, Anjuna, NCS, Blanco y Negro, Drumcode, and many others in leveraging the capabilities of LabelRadar's platform. 

“Cultivating innovation and fostering connections within the DJ music community lie at the heart of Beatport’s mission,” said Robb McDaniels, CEO of The Beatport Group. “This partnership represents a significant stride forward for LabelRadar and Beatport as we continue to reshape the dynamics of music discovery and propel the next generation of electronic music luminaries onto the global stage.” 

“Navigating the deluge of demos that flood any record label can be an exhilarating yet demanding experience,” said Allan Nicoll, Head A&R of Defected Records. “I have spent many years trying to find the best way to deal with an unrelenting inbox, and LabelRadar is the definitive solution:  streamlining the process, liberating valuable time for concentrated artist development, and propelling our commitment to nurturing exceptional musical talent.” 

Founded in 1999 by Simon Dunmore, Defected Records has solidified its position as a cornerstone in the international house music community. Boasting an impressive repertoire of chart-topping dance floor hits from heavyweight artists like Jamie Jones, John Summit, Hannah Wants, Masters at Work, CamelPhat, MK, Purple Disco Machine, Riva Starr, and more, Defected Records represents the pinnacle of house music excellence. Defected Records was acquired by Wez Saunders 2022, who now serves as CEO. 

Sign up to LabelRadar for free and submit your demos to Defected here.