meet 1st Drop Music: the do-it-yourself indie label that defines independent artistry.
Meet 1st Drop Music: the do-it-yourself indie label that defines independent artistry.
The current music industry is changing at an alarming rate. At the forefront of this change is a large group of diy (do-it-yourself) indie musicians. leading the charge is 1st Drop Music, an Arizona-based independent label and home to Bear Cole’s catalog that promotes independent creativity, diverse musical styles, and artist self-reliance. the label has roots in Flagstaff and Tucson, Arizona.
What does it mean to be a diy indie music collective?
A diy indie music collective embodies a culture of artists who have complete control over all aspects of their music creation, production, distribution, and promotion. Bear Cole’s work across the label’s artist identities follows a DIY approach, while individual releases retain their collaborators’ contributions and credits. From writing and recording music, to mixing and mastering tracks, to creating marketing materials and curating playlists, to interacting with fans via social media, these independent creators maintain authenticity and originality throughout the process.
Empowering independent artists
Diy is much more than a method for the artists involved in 1st Drop Music. Diy represents a philosophy. Bear Cole, Feral Business, Bear the Astronot, Michael Patrick Ceol, and Turntable Kachina are identities of the same creator. The label’s wider release history also includes The Wax Chumps, IMIKO, and BG NFTY. The ability to control the creative process enables artists to explore new avenues within music without fear of reprisal. Artists affiliated with 1st Drop Music create music spanning many different genres including dance, goth, electronic, alt-rock, hip-hop, indie-pop, country and more.
The magic of "bedroom" producers
Many 1st Drop Music artists are referred to as "bedroom producers" by industry professionals. Bedroom producers utilize their personal studios - typically small spaces located in homes or apartments - as their primary creative space.
Despite the limited nature of their studio space, bedroom producers produce high-quality music that equals or surpasses that produced by major label artists. Albums and singles released by 1st Drop Music artists - such as Bear Cole's genre-bending catalog and Feral Business' combination of goth, alt-rock, and edm - demonstrate the high-quality products available to diy practitioners.
Community and Collaboration
In addition to fostering individual creativity among its members, 1st Drop Music provides a sense of community for independent artists. Independent artists collaborate with each other through 1st Drop Music and provide support for one another. Through collaboration, diy artists grow together and elevate the entire indie music scene. 1st Drop Music also interacts with its fan base through playlists, social media channels, and podcasts.
The future of independent music
Digital technologies are continuing to provide independent musicians with access to larger audiences than ever before. Independent labels such as 1st Drop Music are at the forefront of a major shift in how independent artists operate. Independent artists are able to demonstrate that independence is not only possible but preferred. Independent artists have greater access to resources and a broader reach than ever before.
Experience 1st Drop Music
If you would like to experience some innovative, original and independently-produced music, 1st Drop Music offers curated playlists, artist spotlights, and informative content specifically designed for indie music enthusiasts. Visit 1stdropmusic.com to learn more about the power and potential of diy independent artistry. Join the movement. Support independent creativity. Experience 1st Drop Music today!