After years of hiatus, I am thrilled to champion the return of Aux Records + Management! It's been a long and winding journey over the last 20 years, but today, we stand at the precipice of a new era. This post serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, the allure of music, and the unwavering spirit that drives us to succeed when we have no other option.
Aux started in 2003 with $6,000 of student loan money fueled by our love for music and the desire to nurture talent. We wanted to be a stepping stone for artists, helping them shape their careers, and releasing music that we all resonate with into the world. Over the last few years I spent most of my time focused on teaching at Syracuse University and releases were temporarily put on hold. But true passion never fades away; it simmers patiently, waiting for the right moment to reignite. The spark is back.
During our time away, we reflected on our past successes and challenges, gaining valuable insights that would shape our next chapter. We took a fresh look at the ever-evolving music landscape, analyzing trends and innovations, and are looking to chart a course to navigate this dynamic industry. Our aim is not just to restart but to reinvent, to create an environment where artists thrive and their music resonates with audiences.
Restarting a venture after a slow few years is no small feat. Doubts and uncertainties can creep in, threatening to overshadow the enthusiasm that propels us forward. Yet, it is during such moments of uncertainty that resilience shines through. We bet on ourselves as there are no other options. One of the most significant aspects of reviving our record label and artist management company was reconnecting with our artists and collaborators. We reached out to past talent, sharing our vision for the future and rekindling the fire that once burned brightly. Building trust and fostering strong relationships became our priority, as we knew that the success of our artists is intertwined with our own. Our first project is with Stephen Douglas Wolfe whom we worked with for several years, 5 to 7 years ago. Two singles and a full-length album are in the works.
One of the guiding principles that define our revived record label and artist management company is our unwavering commitment to creative freedom. We understand that artists thrive when they are given the space to express themselves authentically. Our role is not to mold artists into preconceived notions but to provide them with the tools, support, and guidance they need to cultivate their unique artistic identities. Music is a collaborative art form that flourishes when diverse talents unite. Recognizing this, we want to foster an environment that encourages collaboration, allowing artists to push their boundaries and create music that is timeless.
As we embark on this new chapter, our spirits are brimming with optimism and hope. The music industry is a constant source of inspiration, and has been an aspect of my entire adult life. It’s what I know and it’s all I know. It’s been a number of years since Aux was referenced by anyone but I reflect back to the early days when people didn’t know how to pronounce the label name. Questions were constant asking if it’s pronounced “Awks” or “Oh” Records? I was fine with either because people were talking. Nobody is talking now so it’s time to reintroduce ourselves.