HMV launches 1921 Records, signs India Arkin

completemusicupdate.com:

HMV has announced that it’s getting back into the record label game, launching 1921 Records and signing its first artist, India Arkin.Arkin was apparently spotted when she played an in-store at HMV in Newcastle earlier this year, and is described as a cross between Laura Marling and Billie Eilish.

That in-store performance was part of the music retailer’s Live & Local programme, which has seen more than 1000 grassroots artists play in HMV shops since the start of the year.The musician’s debut album, ‘Home Truths’, is set to be released as part of HMV’s National Album Day activity on 15 Oct.

The theme of this year’s event being debut releases, it’s all very apt, see?“I’m THRILLED to be releasing my debut album with 1921 Records, and it’s almost unbelievable that gigs in the store in HMV Newcastle would lead to this”, says Arkin. “I can’t wait to see my record on the shelves and tour the country performing with my band”.HMV boss Doug Putman adds: “India’s music is absolutely incredible and we’re THRILLED to make her our first 1921 Records signing.

She has such passion for her craft, and she’s a true musician who writes, plays instruments and performs”.“We’re really proud of our HMV Live & Local programme, which sees artists like India given the same platform as the international artists who come to our stores, like Charli XCX and Yungblud”, he adds. “India’s performances in Newcastle got rave reviews from our staff and led to her being signed today”.“With our new label, we want to do what we can to help debut artists make their mark in a tough industry”, he goes on.