Hear Music

Hear Music

Hear Music is a record label and coffeehouse chain that was founded in 1990. It started as a small independent record store in Berkeley, California, and later expanded to include multiple locations across the United States. In 1999, Hear Music was acquired by Starbucks, which led to the establishment of Hear Music as a record label.

History

Hear Music was originally founded by Steve Schwartz and his wife, Nancy, with the goal of creating a unique music retail experience. The first Hear Music store opened in Berkeley, California, offering a wide selection of CDs and vinyl records, as well as a comfortable listening environment for customers.

In 1999, Starbucks acquired Hear Music with the intention of incorporating music into their coffeehouse experience. This acquisition allowed Starbucks to create a new revenue stream by selling CDs in their stores. Additionally, Starbucks began featuring Hear Music compilations in their coffeehouses, showcasing a diverse range of artists and genres.

Over the years, Hear Music expanded its presence by opening additional locations in cities such as Seattle, New York City, and Los Angeles. These coffeehouses not only served as retail spaces for music, but also as venues for live performances and community events.

Record Label

As a record label, Hear Music has released albums by various artists across different genres. One notable release was the "Hear Music Volume 1" compilation, which featured tracks from artists such as Norah Jones, John Mayer, and Sarah McLachlan. This compilation received critical acclaim and helped establish Hear Music as a reputable label.

Hear Music also collaborated with established artists to release exclusive albums. In 2007, Paul McCartney signed a deal with Hear Music to release his album "Memory Almost Full." This partnership was significant as it marked McCartney's departure from his long-time record label, EMI, and showcased Hear Music's ability to attract high-profile artists.

Coffeehouse Chain

In addition to its record label, Hear Music operates a chain of coffeehouses. These coffeehouses provide a unique atmosphere where customers can enjoy their favorite beverages while listening to a curated selection of music. The coffeehouses often feature comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and a welcoming environment for music enthusiasts.

Hear Music coffeehouses also host live performances by local and touring artists, further enhancing the connection between music and the coffeehouse experience. These performances offer a platform for emerging artists to showcase their talent and gain exposure to a wider audience.

Impact and Legacy

Hear Music's integration into Starbucks has had a significant impact on the music industry. By selling CDs in their stores and featuring compilations, Starbucks helped promote and introduce new artists to a broader audience. This exposure provided a platform for emerging artists to gain recognition and expand their fan base.

Furthermore, the success of Hear Music's collaborations with established artists, such as Paul McCartney, demonstrated the label's ability to compete with major record labels. This success paved the way for other non-traditional record labels to enter the industry and challenge the dominance of established players.

See Also

• Starbucks
• Record label
• Coffeehouse

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