Our Noise

1. DIY Ethos Fueled Merge's Inception and Early Growth

People ask the question a lot: Why did you decide to put out your own records? But it’s not like there was anyone else asking to put them out.

Necessity breeds innovation. Mac McCaughan and Laura Ballance started Merge Records out of a desire to release their own music and that of their friends, finding no other avenue for their creative expression. This DIY spirit, born from a lack of external validation, became a defining characteristic of the label.

Early days of resourcefulness. The initial releases were funded through borrowed money and graduation gifts, highlighting the scrappy, bootstrapping approach. They learned the ropes of record production, distribution, and promotion through trial and error, drawing inspiration from labels like SST and Dischord.

• Screenprinting covers by hand
• Stuffing singles in Laura's bedroom
• Borrowing money from friends and family

Community over capital. This hands-on approach fostered a sense of ownership and control, allowing them to maintain artistic integrity and build a community around their shared passion for music.

2. Community and Friendship Over Contracts Defined Merge's Culture

We weren’t thinking of it as a business, we were thinking about it as this fun, cool thing. Contracts seemed like a gesture of mistrust.

Trust-based relationships. Merge operated on handshakes and mutual respect, prioritizing personal connections over formal agreements. This created a supportive environment where artists felt valued and empowered.

Shared vision and values. The label attracted artists who shared their commitment to artistic integrity and independent music. This alignment of values fostered a sense of camaraderie and collaboration.

• Putting out records by friends
• Supporting artists with similar ethos
• Valuing artistic expression over commercial success

A different kind of business. This approach, while seemingly naive, proved to be a powerful differentiator, attracting artists who sought a more personal and collaborative relationship with their label.

3. Superchunk's Success Provided a Platform for Other Artists

Superchunk was probably the first one that actually did the national, touring, support-act kind of stuff. And I think that they helped bring a lot of other bands into that.

Superchunk's influence. Superchunk's growing popularity and relentless touring created opportunities for other Merge artists to gain exposure. They used their platform to showcase lesser-known bands, fostering a sense of community and shared success.

Opening doors for others. Superchunk's success allowed Merge to expand its reach and attract a wider audience. This created a virtuous cycle, where the label's growing reputation attracted more talented artists.

• Asking lesser-known bands to open for Superchunk
• Bringing Merge bands on tour
• Creating a buzz around the Merge label

Building a brand. Superchunk's association with Merge helped to establish the label's identity and credibility, attracting both artists and fans who valued their commitment to independent music.

4. Navigating the Major Label System: A Cautionary Tale

Sign anything that moves.

The allure of the majors. The success of Nirvana and the alternative rock explosion of the early 1990s led to a feeding frenzy among major labels, who sought to capitalize on the burgeoning indie scene. Superchunk received numerous offers, but ultimately resisted the temptation.

The pitfalls of selling out. The band recognized the potential for creative compromise and loss of control that came with signing to a major label. They prioritized artistic freedom and independence over financial gain.

• Hüsker Dü's and the Replacements' experiences
• Steve Albini's "The Problem With Music"
• The pressure to conform to commercial expectations

Maintaining control. This decision, while unconventional, allowed them to maintain their artistic integrity and build a sustainable career on their own terms.

5. Embracing Artistic Freedom Over Commercial Expectations

If our records are going to sell less and less, I’d rather have them sell less and less in a creative situation – a cool situation – than a depressing one where it’s just a job to do.

Artistic integrity as a guiding principle. Merge prioritized artistic expression over commercial success, allowing artists to experiment and push boundaries without fear of interference. This fostered a culture of creativity and innovation.

Rejecting the formula. The label resisted the pressure to conform to mainstream trends, instead focusing on releasing music that they genuinely loved. This commitment to authenticity attracted artists who shared their vision.

• Putting out records that were "too catchy"
• Releasing records that were "too weird"
• Supporting artists who didn't fit into any particular genre

A haven for unique voices. This approach allowed Merge to cultivate a diverse roster of artists, each with their own distinct sound and vision, creating a catalog that is both eclectic and consistently high-quality.

6. The Power of a Strong Vision and Dedicated Team

Merge rolls non-hostile.

Shared values and goals. Mac and Laura's shared vision for Merge, combined with their unwavering dedication and work ethic, created a strong foundation for the label's success. They attracted a team of like-minded individuals who shared their passion for music and their commitment to supporting artists.

A collaborative environment. The label fostered a collaborative environment where everyone felt valued and empowered. This created a sense of ownership and shared responsibility for the label's success.

• Treating artists with respect
• Valuing everyone's contributions
• Creating a supportive and inclusive atmosphere

The importance of relationships. This strong team dynamic, built on trust and mutual respect, allowed Merge to weather challenges and adapt to changes in the music industry.

7. Adaptability and Evolution: Keys to Longevity in a Changing Industry

Everything we knew how to do, we just knew how to do from the box set.

Learning and growing. Merge's ability to adapt to changes in the music industry has been crucial to its longevity. They learned from their mistakes, embraced new technologies, and constantly sought ways to improve their operations.

Embracing new opportunities. The label's willingness to experiment with different genres and formats allowed them to reach new audiences and stay relevant in a constantly evolving landscape.

• Releasing 7-inches, cassettes, CDs, and digital downloads
• Working with artists from diverse musical backgrounds
• Embracing new technologies for promotion and distribution

Staying ahead of the curve. This adaptability, combined with their unwavering commitment to quality, has allowed Merge to thrive in an industry that has seen countless labels come and go.

8. The Importance of Authenticity and Staying True to Core Values

People just never know how much that really means to you when you just love what someone does.

Genuine passion for music. Merge's success is rooted in Mac and Laura's genuine love for music and their desire to support artists they believe in. This passion is evident in every aspect of the label's operations, from the selection of artists to the design of album artwork.

Staying true to their vision. The label has consistently prioritized artistic integrity over commercial gain, resisting the temptation to compromise their values for short-term success. This commitment to authenticity has earned them the respect of artists, fans, and industry peers.

• Turning down major label offers
• Supporting artists who don't fit into any particular genre
• Prioritizing artistic expression over commercial appeal

A lasting legacy. This unwavering commitment to their core values has allowed Merge to build a lasting legacy as a label that is both respected and admired.

9. Finding Success in Unexpected Places and Ways

I love how unpretentious their whole scene is, how they rescued so many Homestead Records bands from obscurity—how they put out the HONOR ROLE CD even though they probably knew that record mattered only to a handful of heart-weary fans like me. Damn, man.

Embracing the underdog. Merge has a knack for finding and supporting artists who are overlooked by the mainstream. They have a history of rescuing bands from obscurity and giving them a platform to reach a wider audience.

Supporting niche genres. The label has never shied away from releasing music that is outside the mainstream, embracing genres like math rock, experimental pop, and avant-garde jazz. This willingness to take risks has allowed them to cultivate a diverse and eclectic catalog.

• Releasing records by Butterglory, Lambchop, and Polvo
• Supporting artists who don't fit into any particular genre
• Embracing music that is challenging and unconventional

A unique perspective. This willingness to embrace the unconventional has allowed Merge to carve out a unique niche in the music industry, attracting artists and fans who are looking for something different.

10. The Enduring Legacy of Merge Records: More Than Just Music

Merge, Mac, and Laura are still out there answering all my questions about following your gut and making things new with each turn and following the muse all the way.

A cultural force. Merge Records has become more than just a record label; it's a cultural institution that has shaped the landscape of independent music. Their influence can be seen in the countless labels and artists who have followed in their footsteps.

A model for success. The label's success has demonstrated that it is possible to build a sustainable and thriving business while staying true to your values and supporting artists you believe in.

• Prioritizing artistic integrity over commercial gain
• Fostering a collaborative and supportive community
• Embracing adaptability and innovation

An inspiration to others. Merge's story serves as an inspiration to aspiring musicians, label owners, and anyone who dreams of creating something meaningful and lasting.

Last updated: March 31, 2025