Celebrating Five Years of HE.SHE.THEY. Records: A Milestone in Dance Music Culture

Since its inception in 2020, HE.SHE.THEY. Records has emerged as a pivotal force within the dance music landscape, crafting a space that transcends mere sound and taps deeply into the rich history of electronic music. Founded by Sophia Kearney and Steven Braines, the label arose as an extension of the long-running HE.SHE.THEY. events series, which began in 2018. Over the course of five years and more than a hundred releases, the label has cultivated a diverse and genre-spanning catalog, garnering respect and recognition from influential platforms, including DJ Mag and the FEMMY Awards. With a global reach that has seen them tour across 60 cities and 26 countries, HE.SHE.THEY. Records is more than just a label; it’s a community dedicated to celebrating the intersections of identities and creativity.

The VA Compilation: A Celebration of Sounds and Stories

To mark this substantial milestone, HE.SHE.THEY. Records has introduced its inaugural VA (various artists) compilation. This rich collection features 25 tracks that traverse genres like deep house, techno, African club, and UK bass, showcasing talents from both established names like Maya Jane Coles and LSDXOXO as well as emerging artists such as Floyd Lavine. The compilation serves not just as a retrospective of the label’s journey, but as a testament to its commitment to inclusivity and representation within the dance music sphere.

Building a Values-Led Label: Reflections and Aspirations

In a recent discussion with Sophia and Ashraf Ejjbair from HE.SHE.THEY., they reflected on the evolution of the label. Sophia expressed gratitude for the journey and shared that while the label has indeed become what they initially envisioned, it has also morphed into something enriched by the community and experiences gathered along the way. The foundation of their mission has always revolved around inclusivity and celebrating diverse narratives in music.

Ashraf shared a sobering perspective on the prevailing environment around diversity and representation in the music industry. While HE.SHE.THEY. has celebrated wins, the larger socio-political landscape has shifted negatively, making the label’s mission even more critical. Issues of representation and safety for marginalized groups remain prominent, emphasizing the importance of a platform that champions these voices.

The Essence of Community: Beyond Releases

What sets HE.SHE.THEY. apart from other labels is their intentional approach to community-building. “Community,” Ashraf explains, “means so much to us and can never be taken for granted.” The label has established infrastructure that facilitates genuine connections—whether through events, radio shows, or social outreach. This daily engagement fosters loyalty, as the consistent quality and intention behind each release and event keep audiences coming back.

Building on this, both founders recognize the delicacy of maintaining intimacy within a growing enterprise. Despite hosting large-scale events, they remain committed to the original ethos that sparked their journey—throwing parties that challenge mainstream perceptions and open spaces to those who may feel excluded from the dance music scene. This profound connection to their audience is reflected in the joy and significance of their events, creating unforgettable moments for attendees.

A Diverse and Dynamic Catalog: The Heart of the Label

Sophia and Ashraf assert that the wealth of talent and diverse musical styles associated with HE.SHE.THEY. Records is what keeps the label relevant. The decision to represent a wide range of identities—regardless of gender, ethnicity, age, or sexuality—ensures that the label continues to evolve alongside the ever-expanding landscape of electronic music. This commitment opens pathways for new artists and innovative sounds, allowing the label to highlight voices and genres that traditionally have been underrepresented.

Celebrating Voices: The Impact of “Bold”

A standout moment on the recent VA compilation is Floyd Lavine’s powerful track “Bold,” which samples a poignant 1963 speech by James Baldwin. Ashraf articulated how Baldwin’s reflections capture deep truths about the creative process and the risks involved in authenticity. This integration of powerful spoken word within a dance track reflects the label’s mission to challenge boundaries and foster complex narratives through music. “Bold” encapsulates the essence of HE.SHE.THEY.—a combination of celebration and realistic reflection on the struggles of being true to oneself within the art form.

Finding New Talent: A Journey of Connections

Despite releasing over a hundred tracks, the process of discovering new artists remains steadfast for HE.SHE.THEY. Sophia notes that submissions can come from various sources, including unsolicited demos and existing partnerships. The diversity in connections remains vital to the label’s growth and success, allowing it to tap into a vibrant and global pool of talent. This approach has cemented HE.SHE.THEY. Records as a progressive label that genuinely values the stories and experiences of its artists.

The Future Vision: Adapting to an Evolving Landscape

Looking forward, Sophia and Ashraf shared their visions for the next five years. They expressed a desire for their music to resonate deeply across the globe and to grow their presence in every corner of the world. With the music industry rapidly evolving, they remain committed to being adaptable and innovative, ensuring that the core community embedded in their ethos continues to thrive.

In an industry often overshadowed by commercial pressures, HE.SHE.THEY. Records stands as a beacon of hope, blending artistic integrity with a mission to create a safer, more inclusive space for all voices in dance music. This journey, filled with both celebration and challenges, underscores the importance of community, creativity, and unwavering commitment to diversity—a formula that ensures HE.SHE.THEY. Records’ impact will be felt for years to come.