Things Could Get LOUD
• Sony’s RED MUSIC and Steve Rifkind jointly announced the relaunch of the legendary hip-hop label LOUD Records. The label, was originally launched in 1991 and broke such artists as Wu-Tang Clan, Three 6 Mafia, Big Pun, Mobb Deep, Xzibit, Dead Prez, Twista and others, and now returns with a roster of new talent, starting with the label’s first signee, Axel Leon (pictured), whose first EP with the label, Rich Port 3, will release on June 8 and is available for pre-order. Leon also released his first single, “Jungle” off of the 11-track EP.
Commenting on signing Leon, Rifkind said, “I could not find anybody more perfect to continue the legacy of LOUD Records. He is the epitome of what LOUD stands for and I’m excited for the world to see what he is going to bring to the music industry and what he stands for.”
In addition to various new releases from the label, this year will mark key anniversaries in LOUD Records’ history, starting with Big Pun’s Capital Punishment, which recently celebrated its 20th anniversary. In November, the label will also be celebrating the 25th anniversary of Wu-Tang Clan. The group’s debut album 36 Chambers will be re-released, featuring the industry’s top rappers re-recording the historic verses of the album. LOUD Records’ digital store, The Loud Experience, will feature various merchandise items throughout the year in celebration of various anniversaries. Right now the store features exclusive LOUD Records merchandise available for a limited time only.
