Division X Records: Breaking Into and Out of Detroit
Posted: 7/27/2007

Detroit's ever expanding music scene is adding another large player as Division X Records launches this August. Division X is an electronic music label born in a Detroit suburb from the minds of Robert Messerschmidt and Adam Hofmann. They have combined experiences of DJ residencies, hosting electronic music events, and creating the mixes for local fashion shows. Although, past months have shown them that owning a label is substantially different and more demanding than either one could have imagined.

Operating Division X Records is a path new to both Adam and Rob in electronic music as they partner in ownership of the company.  Now that years worth of planning and logistical tasks are complete, the label is ready and gearing up to emerge in the competitive and over-saturated environment found in Michigan. However, they are planning to distinguish themselves from other electronic music labels by giving talented local individuals an opportunity to connect and distribute their materials to those here at home and to markets abroad.

Rob explains that this is not just an avenue for artists who are looking to make it in the club and bar scene. He recognizes that “everybody has to start somewhere”, and he further elaborated by explaining that "we as a company are really looking to move beyond the traditional venues people think of and really promote our artists in film, video game themes, and other avenues as well." The music made by Division X is not geared at one particular demographic and can be appreciated by an individual regardless of their familiarity with electronic music.

The label is focusing first on the cities of Detroit and Toronto, with Rob spending the weekdays in Toronto and Adam staying here in Detroit. Rob realizes that "music is universal in nature and there is a real international demand for the electronic sound coming out of Detroit and our label intends to capitalize on that demand" so Division X Records will be continuously looking to expand it’s operations.

The label will release vinyl samplers initially but will be doing a majority of their business on their website, www.divisionxrecords.com. Division X being an Internet based label is unique in this approach and is moving with the new direction in music, utilizing the web as an almost exclusive means of distributing their product. Having a mainly web based label allows them to take on a wide variety of different kinds of electronic music and slowly build up a talented artist base focused on talent and ability as opposed to just marketability.

Open to what the people of Detroit have to offer they will listen to demos sent to them at and respond to every submission.

Demos may be sent to:

PO BOX 216

Hazel Park, MI 48030-0216

- Ashley Star

Ashley@detroitfashionpages.com

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