MUSIC INDUSTRY SUBDIVISION: Musicians, Record Label —
It was just another Tuesday at the Merge Records office as I established a good rhythm on the computer, editing a few minor hiccups on the label’s website before the newly designed version launched. Typically it’s not too hard to delve into tasks given, especially when you’re indefinitely surrounded by thousands of vinyl records and CDs from so many talented bands and artists.
I was just nearing the end of the editing process when in walks one of those very artists – one whose records are heavily scattered throughout the label’s discography, and justifiably so.
It was Laura Ballance, the bassist for indie-rock band, Superchunk, and co-founder of Merge Records, and I was more than excited to hear she was free to talk with me that day. Along with co-founder and bandmate, Mac McCaughan, Ballance has fostered the success of various musicians, ranging from Grammy Award-winning band, Arcade Fire, to the Durham-based locals, Mount Moriah.
From touring as a musician to starting the label, Ballance provided a unique perspective from her impressive range of experiences for my music industry case study.
Music Druthers 