Punkerton Records (Interview)
"I don’t measure success by how many records we sell. I measure success by how happy the bands on my roster are."
In the latest episode of Other Record Labels, we sit down with Brandon of Punkerton Records, a DIY punk label that’s making waves with its artist-first approach and incredible vinyl releases. Brandon’s journey into running a record label started with just $150 and a deep love for punk rock. Instead of following a traditional business plan, he built Punkerton Records by focusing on community, fairness, and making decisions that benefit both the bands and the fans.
One of the most fascinating parts of our conversation was how punk rock kept vinyl alive even when the rest of the industry had moved on. While many genres abandoned physical formats in the early 2000s, punk labels and fans never stopped pressing and collecting records. Today, Brandon works directly with pressing plants to create unique and affordable vinyl releases, often producing multiple color variants while keeping prices reasonable.
For Brandon, success isn’t measured in numbers—it’s about making sure his artists are happy and supported. He emphasizes that a record label isn’t just about selling records; it’s about building a community where bands help each other grow. That sense of collaboration and mutual support is what makes indie labels like Punkerton Records so vital in today’s music industry.
In an era where some question the role of record labels, Punkerton Records is proof that indie labels are more important than ever. They provide a support system for artists, connect music fans to new bands, and keep underground scenes thriving. If you’re passionate about punk, vinyl, or running a record label the right way, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.
“I could’ve charged $35.99 for these special variants and they still would’ve sold out. But I couldn’t sleep at night doing that.”
Listen to older episodes of our podcast, check out our free resources for independent record labels, or learn how to start your own record label.
