Legendary house music label Madhouse Records to cease operations after 31 years
The label, which began as a joint venture between Kerri Chandler and Mel Medalie in 1992, had attracted the likes of Roy Ayers, Demuja and Black Loops
Madhouse Records has announced that it is ceasing operations, 31 years after the label was founded.
The label began as a joint business venture between New Jersey born DJ and Producer Kerri Chandler - a.k.a Third Generation - and Dublin born music entrepreneur Mel Medalie’s Champion Records in 1992.
The two met one another while Mel was on a trip to the US in the early 90s, and the two quickly became acquainted. Madhouse originally severed as the main outlet for the work of Kerri and his producer friends, and occasionally some crate dug finds Kerri came across.
The first page of the website comes with a note that says:
“Madhouse Records, under Mel’s Champion Records umbrella, has enjoyed huge success over the years since the duo joined forces. Madhouse Records’ first release was Kerri’s album ‘A Basement, A Red Light and A Feeling’, which was a driving force behind the label, with the single ‘I Got That Feeling’ (Dreamer G) being licensed to Atlantic Records.”
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It continued with a message from Raj Porter of Champion Records saying “We are of course sad to see Madhouse Records come to an end after an incredible 31 years, however all good things come to an end."
"Both Kerri and Champion have exciting new projects in the pipeline, and it just seemed the right time to bring the label to a close”
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Chandler often dropped release on the label under various pseudonyms such as “a Night with Dick”, “Bobcat Trades”,or “Third Generation" — many of which are encompassed in 25-track compilation released to celebrate 25 years of Madhouse.
Over its running time, the label amassed a roster of notable talent, with catalogued releases from Jerome Sydenham, Dennis Ferrer, Demuja , Black Loops, and even the legendary Royal Ayers, who’s huge ‘Good Vibrations’ was released via the imprint.
Kerri’s work shall now be moved to his other venture, the Kaoz Theory label, while the remaining Madhouse discography now belongs to Champion Records.
Tiffany Ibe is Mixmag's Digital Intern, follow her on Instagram