In an industry where electronic music labels come and go, few manage to stand the test of time and continuously help define the soundscape as Stripped has done. Since its launch in 2005, Stripped Since its launch in 2005 Stripped (which comprises of two record labels Stripped Recordings and Stripped Digital) has remained a driving force in the progressive house genre, carefully curating an expansive roster of artists that balance innovation with respect for tradition. The brainchild of Norman H, a visionary deeply influenced by the first wave of progressive house and the unforgettable performances of Sasha and John Digweed, Stripped began as a response to the shifts in music consumption and production in the early 2000s.
Originally, Stripped was more than just a record label. It started as a series of parties in Southend-on-Sea in 1999, modeled after the legendary Bedrock nights at Heaven, London. By 2005, Norman saw the potential to extend the ethos of those nights into recorded music, launching Stripped as an outlet for vinyl and digital releases. The label quickly distinguished itself by offering a space for both emerging and established artists to explore the rich, evolving landscape of electronic music. As Norman recalls, “It’s hard to believe that next year both labels [Stripped Recordings and Stripped Digital] will be 20 years old.”
The label’s defining sound has always revolved around its progressive house roots, but over the years, it has expanded to embrace a range of subgenres, reflecting the broader shifts in electronic music. “The sound of both labels at the moment, I would say, is diverse, but the progressive house ethos still remains at their core,” Norman explains. This flexibility has allowed Stripped to stay relevant in an ever-changing industry.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Stripped is its commitment to discovering and nurturing new talent. Many of the label’s early signees—such as Kastis Torrau (now recording as Noissier), Arnas D, and Donatello—have since gone on to achieve international acclaim. Norman takes pride in having discovered them on platforms like MySpace and SoundCloud, which were fertile ground for unearthing fresh talent at the time. “There have been so many [artists], the list is endless as we move through the years,” he notes, highlighting Amber Long, Sebastien Dhajje, and Dibby Dougherty as just a few key figures in the label’s history.
Stripped’s catalogue is a testament to its longevity and consistency. Releases like Donatello x Shane Blackshaw’s ‘Catch 23’ (2017) and Quivver x Shane Blackshaw’s ‘Rescue’ (the label’s 200th release) underscore the label’s penchant for delivering music that resonates deeply with listeners, often through limited vinyl runs and deluxe editions. Other standout releases include Marcan Liav’s ‘Sanctuary’ and ‘Sanctuary: Remixed’ (2022), as well as Brett Rubin &. Peace Hannigan’s ‘Like Being Stoned (Travis Emmons Remix)’, which remains the biggest release across both Stripped Recordings and Stripped Digital to date.
Norman’s Stripped is also a community. Although showcases were halted due to the pandemic, the label’s reach has extended beyond borders, with past showcases held in Tulum and Mexico City. Through its active Instagram presence, Stripped fosters direct interaction with fans, producers, and DJs alike. Social media has become essential in cultivating a sense of connection and belonging in today’s decentralized music industry, and Stripped has adapted seamlessly to this new reality. “Instagram is the main go-to as well as SoundCloud,” Norman says, reflecting on the label’s growing online community.
Despite the rise of digital music platforms and the rapid technological advancements that have transformed the music industry, Stripped has remained steadfast in its mission. Every release is meticulously crafted, with Norman personally overseeing everything from signing tracks to assigning remixes, designing artwork, and managing press. “From day one, I’ve run the ship from top to bottom,” he says, emphasizing the hands-on approach that has defined the label’s operations.
Looking ahead, Stripped shows no signs of slowing down. With a mix compilation in the works for early 2025 and a steady stream of releases on the horizon, Norman envisions the label continuing to evolve while staying true to its roots. “In five or ten years, who knows? I’d like to think that we’ll still be relevant and ride the wave of further technological advancement,” he says. It’s a vision grounded in both humility and ambition, traits that have undoubtedly contributed to Stripped’s enduring success.
As the label approaches its 20th anniversary, Stripped reflects the power of persistence, passion, and a commitment to quality. In an industry often characterized by fleeting trends, Stripped continues to champion a sound and community that resonate across time, proving that some imprints are built not just to survive but to thrive.
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