How Justin Tranter’s Facet Records and Publishing is Transforming the Music Biz From Within
variety.comMike Wass From the moment Justin Tranter took the stage as the lead singer of ‘00s rock band Semi Precious Weapons in six-inch heels and a full face of makeup, they had their eye on the bigger picture. “My goal was always to be on the cover of Forbes, not the cover of Rolling Stone,” says Tranter, “and I am just getting started.”As the founder and CEO of Facet Records and Publishing, Tranter is revolutionizing the music industry from within and racking up massive hits in the process.
Having been dropped from four record deals before breaking through as one of music’s most sought-after songwriters, Tranter has, in their own words, “seen it all.” The hitmaker’s goal is simply to do it better. “I’m not perfect, but I do have a very different perspective than a lot of executives do,” they say. “I’m still a writer, I’m still a creator, so I’m able to understand the business challenges, the emotional challenges, and the schedule challenges.”Since opening its doors in 2019, Facet has steadily built a diverse roster of artists, songwriters, and producers with one benchmark: “icons only.” Their definition of “an icon” includes rule-breakers, and game-changers — essentially anyone unafraid to be their true, authentic self. “I like people who make bold songs and who make bold choices,” declares Tranter.“On the publishing side, Brandon Colbein writes really huge, dramatic, sweeping melodies that aren’t necessarily trendy,” they explain. “On the label side, Jake Wesley Rogers is so connected emotionally, but also not afraid to be over the top.” Tranter also lists producer Eren Cannata, with his mastery of horns, strings-maestro Dan Crean, and Broadway alum Brittany Campbell as other signings that reflect Facet’s ethos. “’Icons only’.
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