By Sonia Schnee | Posted Wednesday, February 10, 2021
On January 29th, Shore Points Records, a new independent record label based in Asbury Park (housed at Lakehouse Recording Studios), released a compilation called “Shore Points Records: Locals Only Vol. 1” which features 10 NJ-based artists and bands - Sonic Blume, Lance Ambrose, 8dayzstr8, Drew the Recluse, stillhungry, Rick Barry, Jackson Pines, Phoneboy, Shoobies, and Georgia Owen.
Check out our interview with Andrew Gialanella, Manager, A&R of Shore Points Records, below, to learn about the label’s mission, how you can get a hold of their new compilation, and words of advice for aspiring artists.
What inspired the formation of Shore Point Records? What's your mission?
Shore Points was founded by Jon Leidersdorff (Lakehouse Music owner) and Rich Christina (SVP of A&R at Warner/Chappell Music). Jon, Rich, and I are all proud NJ residents, and we strongly believe in the musical talent here. The label's mission is to elevate local talent, and help up and coming artists of all types to grow and achieve their goals professionally and creatively.
Congratulations on the release of your “Locals Only Vol. 1" compilation! Where can people listen to it?
Thank you! You can listen to the compilation on all streaming services such as Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon, etc. There is also limited vinyl pressed.
How did you find the bands that are on it?
We found these artists through our personal networks, word of mouth recommendations from music professionals in our community, and through A&R research focused on NJ talent.
Do you plan on releasing more compilations in the future?
We plan to do more projects like this in the future, as well as put out new music from some of the great artists we've discovered since the label's formation.
What are you looking forward to in 2021?
I'm definitely looking forward to continuing to discover and meet more artists from the area, and hopefully continue to bring the NJ music community together.
What words of advice would you give to someone who wants to start their own record label?
My advice to anyone planning to start a record label would be to really gain a broad understanding of today's recorded music industry. Take a look at other independent artists and labels that are succeeding. How are they connecting with their listeners? And what is it about their release strategies that seem to be working? And most importantly, be patient and form relationships with great artists. As a brand new label, you have to invest a tremendous amount of time and effort into a select few artists who are just starting out.
What words of advice would you give to artists who are trying to survive and grow in NJ?
To any artists who are working to make a career out of music, just remember that you have more power today than you ever would have in the past. With digital distribution and streaming, the playing field is actually more level than it ever was. And you have more freedom to take risks, release more music, and connect with fans more directly. Take advantage of it! And of course, strive to make great music every day. Finding someone who will give you honest feedback on your work is invaluable (as uncomfortable as it might make you feel at first).
Finally, how can people connect with you?
People can follow us on Instagram, subscribe to our YouTube channel, and stream our compilation "Shore Points Records: Locals Only Vol. 1" on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon, and more.