Exceleration Music Acquires Dangerbird Records
Exceleration Music, the independent music company known for its unique blend of distribution, investment, and label support services, has signed its latest deal with LA-based label, Dangerbird Records.
Exceleration will acquire Dangerbird’s catalogue, which spans approximately 120 albums and over 30 artists. With the label winding down its new release schedule in recent years, Exceleration will assume full control of its ongoing catalogue operations. This will include actively working to promote the Dangerbird catalogue via Exceleration’s distribution company, Redeye Worldwide, while respecting the legacy of the label and its artists.
Dangerbird Records was founded in 2004 by artist Peter Walker (known for his work with Eulogies and later career with Arthur King). Placing an emphasis on artist development, the label became known for harnessing the energy of the vibrant Silver Lake scene to bring unique voices from indie rock, pop and folk into the spotlight.
Over the past two decades, Dangerbird fostered the careers of local bands such as Fitz and the Tantrums, Silversun Pickups, and Sea Wolf, among others. Following Fitz and the Tantrums’ successful major label upstreaming to Elektra, its roster continued to grow further with signings including Grandaddy, The Frights, Butch Walker, Matt Costa, Slothrust, and many more.
For the last 13 years, the label has been run by Jenni Sperandeo, who joined the company in 2010. Sperandeo will step down as President following a transition period.
Dangerbird Records join a fast-growing roster of investments and partnerships from Exceleration Music, including +1 Records, Alligator, Bloodshot, Cooking Vinyl, Kill Rock Stars, Mom+Pop, SideOneDummy, The Ray Charles Foundation/ Tangerine Records and Yep Roc Records.
Peter Walker said: “It’s a dream come true to find a home like Exceleration to take over the legacy of Dangerbird. It’s been a wild ride over the last 20 years, and I’m grateful for Jenni’s leadership that has enabled the brand and the art it champions to become something of lasting value.”
Jenni Sperandeo, Dangerbird Records President, added: “Dangerbird was founded with seasoned artist development instincts, hustle and ambition. When I arrived in 2010 the company was at the cusp of a new era and I am proud of the work we did to support the artists and steer the brand amidst profound industry change. I am grateful to Peter Walker for the opportunity and thrilled to see the catalog passing into experienced independent sector hands with Exceleration Music Partners.”
Exceleration Partner Amy Dietz said: “We are passionate about preserving, celebrating, and amplifying the legacies of amazing independent labels and artists and Dangerbird is a prime example. I’ve had the privilege of working with Dangerbird and their artists at different times in my career, and we all share a deep appreciation for their creativity and dedication. We’re honored to be entrusted with the responsibility of continuing to share their story into the future!”