Listen: RELEVANT PARTIES By Carhartt WIP - Ghostly International

Carhartt WIP releases its latest RELEVANT PARTIES podcast featuring Ghostly International. Founded in 1999 in Ann Arbor, Michigan by Sam Valenti IV, record label Ghostly International has since transcended its humble beginnings – even if its founder still maintain a considerable degree of modesty, describing himself as “just a fan.” Now located in New York City, Ghostly is known for its multidisciplinary approach, encapsulating a host of genres – Hip Hop, electro, Italo disco, IDM, Shoegaze, to name a few – and an equally eclectic array of artists, including Matthew Dear, Dabrye, School of Seven Bells, and Shigeto.

Following its eight guiding principles, such as, “Music and the Arts as a place for people of all backgrounds and identities to thrive,” and “Learning from, as well as challenging, the opportunities that new tools provide,” the label is not simply limited to musical releases. Art, books, and furniture all figure in the Ghostly universe – as does clothing, with the label partnering with Carhartt WIP this season as part of its RELEVANT PARTIES program.

As part of RELEVANT PARTIES, we’re spotlighting each of the iconic independent record labels involved. This week is the turn of Valenti IV’s brainchild, as he sits down with music journalist Chal Ravens to discuss his label’s origins, its diverse mix of artists, and what he envisions as the future of record labels.