About Rounder records
Rounder Records: A Historic Record Label for Americana and Bluegrass Music
Rounder Records is a Nashville-based record label that has been in the music industry for over 50 years. It is one of the world's most historic Americana and bluegrass record labels, known for its high-quality roots-based music. Along with respected label Sugar Hill, Rounder continues to raise the bar for authentic American music.
The company was founded in 1970 by Ken Irwin, Bill Nowlin, and Marian Leighton-Levy. They started as a small independent label that focused on traditional folk music from New England. However, they soon expanded their repertoire to include other genres such as blues, bluegrass, Cajun, and zydeco.
Over the years, Rounder Records has released critically acclaimed offerings from iconic artists such as Gregg Allman, Steve Martin & Edie Brickell, Rush and Vince Gill’s Time Jumpers. The label also promotes promising talents like Sierra Hull, I’m With Her Ruston Kelly Pokey LaFarge The SteelDrivers Susto among others.
One of Rounder's most significant contributions to American music is its role in popularizing bluegrass outside of its Appalachian roots. In the early 1980s when mainstream country was dominated by pop-infused sounds; Rounder helped bring back traditional bluegrass with releases from artists like J.D Crowe & The New South and Tony Rice Unit.
Rounder Records' commitment to preserving traditional American music has earned them numerous awards over the years. They have won multiple Grammy Awards including Best Bluegrass Album (O Brother Where Art Thou? soundtrack) in 2002 and Best Traditional Folk Album (Beautiful Dreamers) in 2011.
In addition to producing high-quality recordings of established artists; Rounder also provides opportunities for up-and-coming musicians through their Open Mic series which allows aspiring musicians to showcase their talent on stage at various venues across America.
The company's dedication to promoting authentic American roots-based music has made it one of the most respected record labels worldwide. Their catalog includes over three thousand titles spanning various genres such as blues rockabilly gospel jazz soul R&B reggae world beat Celtic folk singer-songwriter old-time country western swing honky-tonk Cajun zydeco Tex-Mex klezmer classical Native American children’s spoken word comedy soundtracks audiobooks documentaries etcetera making it an essential resource for anyone interested in exploring America's rich musical heritage.
In conclusion; if you are looking for authentic Americana or bluegrass records that capture the essence of traditional American culture then look no further than Rounder Records! With a vast catalog spanning several decades; this historic record label continues to be at the forefront of promoting quality roots-based music while providing opportunities for new talent through their Open Mic series - truly making them an invaluable asset within today’s ever-changing musical landscape!