About
Brownswood Recordings is an independent record label founded by the DJ and broadcaster Gilles Peterson in 2006. Proudly rooted in London’s diverse music community, the label has become a hub for eclectic genre-defying music. Taking inspiration from across the Black musical cannon – jazz, soul, hip hop and bass music, we have collaborated with many leading innovative music makers from the UK.
We are deeply interested in how music works as a cultural signifier, and try to tell these stories with the care and thought that they deserve. Outside of our work on artist led projects, we have also put together special records to showcase fascinating musical scenes in London, Havana, Johannesburg, Melbourne and Brasil.
Brownswood has carved out a unique space in the music industry by championing innovative artists. We have always had a strong commitment to supporting voices from the global majority– as well as doing business in a way that is transparent, entrepreneurial and ethical. We are drawn to singular artists – and we have built a platform that has built many careers from an early stage – as well as providing a space for more established artists to experiment and create something different.
At almost 20 years old Brownswood Recordings stands as a pioneering record label championing the notion that music can bring people together.
What we believe
Brownswood is committed to playing our part in helping to create a better music industry and as a result we hope to contribute to supporting a fairer and more equal society. We want to see a world without discrimination of any sort and where every person is able to reach their full potential, and believe we have a part to play in that. We are committed to creating an environment where the artists we partner with are treated with respect, and can develop their careers in a way that doesn’t compromise their artistic integrity. We also want all our team, as well as others who work “behind the scenes” to feel safe at work, be paid fairly and get the support they need to develop their own talents.
Black music, which is so magnificent in its scope, is the common thread which links the music that we release together. It is vital that respect for Black people and culture is baked into all our creative decision making, business practices and communication. White team members within our organisation, or who work closely with us, need to be personally committed to the deeper work of understanding their own relationship with white privilege.
We all know that the music industry in which we operate has serious and long entrenched problems. Structural racism, toxic masculinity, few pathways for people from disadvantaged backgrounds, poor mental health, and a lack of boundaries around work / life balance are all rife. We aim to create a space where we try to do things differently. We want to prove another type of industry is possible, where art and culture is properly valued, businesses can operate with transparency and integrity and each person can be their authentic self without fear of discrimination.