It's Kat "The Contrarian" Black, your favorite industry critic, back to stir the pot and challenge the status quo. Today, we're dissecting the Secondary Market Rock (SMR) charts, and one label is casting a long, imposing shadow: Better Noise Records.
Let's look at the facts: In the SMR charts for July 2nd, 2024, Better Noise artists occupied a staggering four spots in the top 20. From Ashes to New's "Barely Breathing" sat comfortably at #3, Nothing More's "If It Doesn't Hurt" claimed #5, Five Finger Death Punch's "This is the Way" featuring DMX held #7, and Asking Alexandria's "Psycho" rounded out the list at #15.
And that's not all. Better Noise also has a significant presence further down the charts, with bands like All Good Things and Eva Under Fire making waves.
This level of dominance is impressive, but it also raises some questions. Is Better Noise's success sustainable? Can any other label challenge their reign? And what does this mean for artist diversity and independent music?
Better Noise has built its empire on a foundation of hard rock, heavy metal, and alternative rock. They've signed established acts like Five Finger Death Punch and Nothing More, while also nurturing up-and-coming talent like From Ashes to New and Asking Alexandria.
Their strategy is clear: Identify bands with a strong following and a radio-friendly sound, then provide them with the resources and support they need to succeed. This approach has paid off handsomely, with Better Noise consistently dominating the SMR charts.
But can anyone dethrone Better Noise? It won't be easy. The label has a proven track record of success, and they show no signs of slowing down. However, there are a few potential challengers on the horizon.
Labels like Sumerian Records and Hopeless Records are home to some of the most exciting and innovative bands in the rock and metal scene. They may not have the same level of mainstream success as Better Noise, but they're pushing boundaries and cultivating a new generation of rock stars.
Independent artists are also making their mark on the SMR charts. Bands like Atrium and Blacklite District are building a loyal following through DIY touring and online promotion. They may not have the backing of a major label, but they're proving that talent and hard work can still lead to success.
Better Noise's dominance raises important questions about the future of the rock and metal scene. Is there enough room for diversity and experimentation when one label holds so much power? Are independent artists being squeezed out of the market?
These are complex issues with no easy answers. However, it's important to have a critical discussion about the implications of label dominance. We need to ensure that the rock and metal scene remains a vibrant and diverse landscape, where artists of all backgrounds and styles have the opportunity to succeed.
Better Noise Records is undoubtedly a major force in the rock and metal world. Their dominance of the SMR charts is a testament to their success. However, it's important to remember that the music industry is constantly evolving. New labels and independent artists are emerging all the time, challenging the status quo and pushing the boundaries of the genre.
So, can anyone dethrone Better Noise? Time will tell. But one thing is certain: the rock and metal scene is more exciting and unpredictable than ever before. And that's something we can all celebrate.
Think for yourself, support the underground, and demand better.
Kat "The Contrarian" Black is a music business graduate disillusioned with the mainstream music industry. Fiercely independent, she supports DIY ethics and artist-friendly platforms. Black's writing is critical, insightful, and challenges the status quo. She questions industry norms, champions independent artists, and explores the intersection of music and social issues. Her work encourages readers to think critically, support the underground music scene, and demand better from the industry.
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