1st Drop Music – Keeping Music About Music

Nestled in the cultural tapestry of Flagstaff, Arizona, 1st Drop Music stands as a beacon for independent musicians across various genres. Founded by the visionary Bear Cole, known artistically under many names, maybe most prolifically Bear the Astronot, this record label and music collective is dedicated to disrupting the traditional music industry model by amplifying the voices of diverse and independent artists. With an innovative approach and a commitment to creativity, 1st Drop Music is shaping the future of music by embracing genres from electronic dance to rock, and beyond.

A Vision for the Future

1st Drop Music was born from Bear Cole’s desire to see a more inclusive and supportive music industry. As an independent artist himself, Cole recognized the challenges that musicians face in gaining recognition and reaching broader audiences. His response was to create a platform that not only supports artists in producing and promoting their music but also emphasizes the importance of community and collaboration.

The label’s website, 1stDropMusic.com, serves as a hub for discovery, showcasing an eclectic mix of talents and sounds. It reflects Cole’s vision of a music industry that values artistic integrity over commercial viability, and diversity over conformity. Through this platform, 1st Drop Music helps independent artists bypass the traditional gatekeepers of the music industry, allowing them to directly connect with listeners worldwide. Their listeners are an eclectic group of people that just love good music no matter the genre.

Diverse Roster of Artists

The strength of 1st Drop Music lies in its diverse roster of artists, each bringing their unique sounds and perspectives to the collective. This includes:

• Bear Cole: As the founder, Cole shines as a dance music producer but also a proficient songwriter with a knack for poignant lyrics and captivating melodies, Bear Cole combines House and EDM knowledge as a DJ Producer, and authentically adds a country, folk, and indie pop dimension to the mix. His love for Dance Music is apparent  and he shows no fear diving into what some might consider pop & country.
• Bear the Astronot: Bear the Astronot brings a blend of hip-hop, electronic, and indie rock, setting the tone for the label’s eclectic aesthetic. Bear the Astronot is an Alternative Hip-Hop veteran known for melding genres and as a pioneer and wordsmith.
• Michael Patrick Ceol: Sometimes known as M.P. Ceol this elusive artist is known best for dark horror influenced synths and electronic drones. Not only a producer, but also a sound designer Ceol delves deep into the darkness with complex soundscapes.
• Turntable Kachina: A project that merges traditional Native American music with modern electronic beats, highlighting cultural heritage and contemporary creativity. Celebrating electronic music from the Navajo reservation across the globe.
• Feral Business: The electronic dance-rock collective known for their high-energy tracks that are both invigorating and thought-provoking.
• Sagebrush & The Little Flowers: Soulful country, folk, and bluegrass sounds that celebrate nature and life from Northern Arizona.
• The Wax Chumps: The Wax Chumps blend conscious lyricism with authentic, sample-heavy hip-hop beats, paying homage to classic vinyl culture.

Each artist under the 1st Drop Music banner not only contributes their unique sound but also embodies the label’s mission to challenge the status quo and embrace innovation. The roster is steadily growing.

Supporting Creativity and Innovation

At the core of 1st Drop Music’s philosophy is a commitment to supporting the creative processes of its artists. The Music Group provides resources ranging from production assistance to marketing and distribution networks, ensuring that artists have what they need to succeed without compromising their artistic vision. This support system is vital for independent artists who might otherwise struggle to find the resources necessary to bring their music to a global audience.

Moreover, 1st Drop Music is keen on utilizing the latest technologies to promote their artists. From leveraging social media platforms to exploring the use of unique music releases, the Music Group stays at the forefront of digital innovation, making music accessible in the most modern ways possible.

Discover Curated Playlists from 1st Drop Music

Explore carefully curated playlists showcasing the freshest indie, electronic, alternative rock, and hip-hop tracks from artists at 1st Drop Music. Dive into playlists tailored to your mood, style, or genre preferences, featuring standout musicians like Bear Cole, Feral Business, Turntable Kachina, Bear the Astronot, Michael Patrick Ceol and more.

• ELECTRONIC

  Introducing the ultimate Electronic playlist by 1st Drop Music, featuring the finest tracks across House, Dance, Electronic, Techno, Chill, and beyond.

• HITS

  1st Drop Music’s HITS playlist, a diverse compilation featuring our label’s top tracks across pop, rock, hip-hop, house, electronic, country, goth, and beyond!

• RHYMES

  1st Drop Music’s RHYMES playlist, a captivating collection of alternative Hip-Hop tracks blending compelling lyricism with infectious beats.

• Lofi & Beats

  1st Drop Music’s Lofi and Beats playlist, a captivating fusion of lofi, chill, downtempo, hip-hop, soulful dance, world, electronic, and more from incredible artists.

• Country & Songwriter

  Introducing music born from the dirt and backroads of Northern Arizona—a region famed for diverse landscapes, the world’s largest pine forest, the largest Native American reservation, and the majestic Grand Canyon, birthplace of our founder.

• The Darkside

  1st Drop Music’s THE DARKSIDE playlist, a thrilling mix of horror-themed Hip-Hop, wicked Trap, Rock, Metal, and haunting Techno—taking listeners on a chilling musical journey.

• Our Vision

  1st Drop Music’s Our Vision playlist, a refreshing collection highlighting artistic authenticity and originality, pioneering the unique Southwest Soul genre.

• Artist Picks

  1st Drop Music’s Artist Picks playlist, offering an intimate look at our artists’ personal favorites, hidden gems, and tracks close to their hearts.

Enjoy seamless listening experiences and discover your new favorite tracks now. For even more personalized listening and playlists, visit our exclusive platform ListenNow.xyz.

Experience Playlists – Experience Our Artists Best Work

Experience the greatest hits from our 1st Drop Music artists. Often eclectic spanning multiple genres, these experience playlists are a great way to take in the sound of our artists and find your favorites!

• Experience Bear Cole

  “Experience Bear Cole,” a curated journey showcasing Arizona producer, songwriter, DJ, and indie artist Bear Cole’s eclectic range—from Soulful House, EDM, and Techno to Indie Pop ballads, Alt-Country love songs, and beyond.

• Experience Feral Business

  “Experience Feral Business,” an energetic playlist packed with Dance Rock, Alt-Rock, EDM, goth, darkwave, and punk energy—featuring electrifying guitars, lush synths, and irresistible rhythms designed to make you scream and dance!
• Experience Bear the Astronot

  “Experience Bear the Astronot,” a playlist featuring Alternative Indie Hip-Hop, poignant lyricism, and eclectic sounds from Arizona’s veteran MC—taking listeners on an innovative musical journey that blends genres and emotions across decades of brilliant songwriting.

• Experience Turntable Kachina

  “Experience Turntable Kachina,” a sonic journey capturing Northern Arizona’s enchanting landscapes through Chill, World, Electronic, Hip-Hop, Jazz, Downtempo, Dance, and Lofi beats—creating an auditory masterpiece inspired by the Grand Canyon, Navajo & Hopi reservations, and lush natural beauty.

• Experience Michael Patrick Ceol

  “Experience Michael Patrick Ceol,” a playlist spotlighting the elusive producer’s dark, cinematic, horror, and sci-fi-themed productions—featuring haunting synths and immersive soundscapes perfect for fans of dark techno and chilling atmospheres.

Impact on Flagstaff and Beyond

While 1st Drop Music is based in Flagstaff, its influence extends far beyond the Arizona music scene. The 1st Drop Music Group has built a network that spans across continents, bringing diverse music to a global audience. However, its impact on the local community remains significant. By fostering a vibrant music scene in Flagstaff, 1st Drop Music not only enriches the local culture but also positions the city as a burgeoning hub for independent music. Many of it’s artists can also be found performing live and DJing across the entire American Southwest.

Conclusion

1st Drop Music is more than just a group of indie musicians; it is a movement. Under the guidance of Bear Cole, the team continues to champion the independence and diversity necessary for the evolution of music. In a world where the arts are increasingly homogenized, 1st Drop Music stands out as a sanctuary for creativity, offering a platform where independent voices can thrive and shape the future of music, one drop at a time.

Why I Started 1st Drop Music: A DIY, Independent Music Journey

After years of experience in various roles across the music industry, I realized a DIY, independent approach was ideal for my musical journey. My diverse background includes DJ residencies in major cities like Las Vegas, Scottsdale, and Los Angeles, roles as an audio engineer and lighting designer, and promoting events across an array of venues, from intimate punk clubs to major nightclubs.

I’ve had firsthand experiences touring as a roadie with legendary artists such as The Rolling Stones, Kanye West, The Black Eyed Peas, Taylor Swift, and Keith Urban. These opportunities provided insights into the music industry’s intricacies and challenges. Studio work further expanded my expertise, allowing me to assist on projects with prominent artists like Bone Thugs & Harmony, DMX, and Megadeth.

Throughout my career, I’ve independently produced, mixed, and recorded multiple full-length albums for various bands and musical projects, often navigating financial challenges by selling beats, studio time, and touring whenever possible.

Embracing Independence in Music

In 2004, I took a significant step toward independence, accepting an audio technician position that allowed me to remain stationary and close to family. Despite receiving recognition and multiple offers from major labels, I chose creative freedom and family over industry-standard success.

Since beginning my musical journey in 1993, I’ve committed to creating authentic music, supporting DIY musicians, and redefining success beyond record deals or extensive touring. There is tremendous talent among independent musicians creating exceptional work from their home studios. My passion for promoting and producing music independently inspired the creation of 1st Drop Music.

The Meaning Behind 1st Drop Music

Initially operating as “Optimix Prime Productions,” I eventually rebranded to “1st Drop Music,” reflecting the exhilarating feeling associated with the first drop of a song or the first drops of rain.

My core mission is to release music consistently and maintain creative authenticity without commercial pressures. I’ve found that making music solely for financial survival diminishes creativity and passion. Thus, I balance creative pursuits with other employment to keep music enjoyable and authentic.

Adapting to a Changing Musical Landscape

The music industry has significantly evolved since I began as an artist, shifting from local grassroots support to the complexities of social media marketing. Balancing music creation with promotional demands can be challenging, but as the founder of 1st Drop Music, I prioritize genuine artistry above all.

Based in Flagstaff, Northern Arizona, 1st Drop Music deliberately positions itself outside the traditional industry hubs. I release music under my own projects like Bear Cole, Bear the Astronot, Turntable Kachina, Feral Business, and Michael Patrick Ceol, and support emerging artists like IMIKO and BG NFTY. Collaboration among our artists is integral, enriching our collective creativity.

A Community-Driven Music Label

1st Drop Music can loosely be described as a record label, yet it primarily functions as a collective of artists dedicated to mutual growth and creative sharing. Our focus isn’t solely on streaming numbers or content generation but on the artistic process and the meaningful distribution of our creations.

We actively support independent and emerging musicians by encouraging submissions of their work to [email protected]. If it aligns with our vision, we gladly help promote it—no strings attached. To us, music is a community first and a business second.

Celebrating Music Beyond Appearances

Many artists at 1st Drop Music choose to remain anonymous visually, honoring the original excitement and mystery of discovering new music solely through sound. This artistic choice allows audiences to focus purely on the music and promotes creative visuals and art to represent our musicians.

Thank you for supporting 1st Drop Music and our dedicated community of artists committed to keeping authentic, self-sufficient music alive.

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