Q&A: Redfoo discusses his label Party Rock
LMFAO’s Party Rock Anthem is the best-selling song in Australian history; the track went to #1 in 19 countries and is currently ranked the 5th best song of all time on Billboard’s Hot 100 55th anniversary chart (1958-2013). Redfoo, one half of LMFAO and son of Motown label creator Berry Gordy Jr and writer/producer Nancy Leiviska, is finally talking about his own record label Party Rock. Last month, Redfoo released his single New Thang, the lead track from his upcoming solo album and his first on Party Rock. The 38-year-old multi-instrumentalist/singer chats to TMN about how being signed to a major influenced his vision for Party Rock and which lessons from his father he brought to the business model.
You come from a storied industry background, it was only a matter of time before you launched your own label. Tell us about how Party Rock came about and why you waited until now to launch it.
It’s always been a dream of mine to create a label and follow in the footsteps of my father. While producing, mixing & mastering the first two LMFAO albums, it hit me that Redfoo was not just an artist, but a global platform to launch projects, brands and artists. I’m now armed with all the creative resources necessary to create that label.
Interscope has supported your decision to release New Thang, what can you tell us about the agreement you have with them?
I don’t kiss and tell when it comes to contracts, however I can say that I am very appreciative of the support from Interscope, Cherry Tree Records and will.i.am.
How exposed were you to label strategies and the grittier side of the music industry growing up?
I wasn’t exposed at all, but I was living with my Dad when he wrote his book, To Be Loved, which is the music business bible.
What is something you are bringing from your experience in that world to Party Rock?
The importance of teamwork, competition and responsibility. My dad always told me responsibility is the price of greatness.
You haven’t announced any acts for your roster yet; what does a Party Rock artist sound like?
It’s not so much what they sound like. They’ve got to have that X-Factor!
Have you considered signing any of The X Factor Australia contestants?
I’ve considered it and it’s something that could possibly happen if the opportunity presented itself.
As an artist signed to a major label subsidiary, what’s helped you the most as a new label owner?
The experience of having two back to back number one hits, a world tour, starting a movement in dance music and witnessing major pop artists adopt our model.
What were you adamant on doing differently?
The Party Rock label has always created the music, wardrobe, videos and live shows while being funded, marketed and distributed by a major label. Now, we’ll do everything the same, but will handle the funding, marketing and distribution.
What do you see as your responsibility as a label founder in the current industry climate?
For the Party Rock artists to be successful.
What’s your vision for Party Rock?
To be a voice of the party culture and create music that inspires people to come together, dance and just have a good time.