Defected Records acquire Grammy award winner Todd Edwards catalogue

22 April 2020 - Press release

The London based house music label announce the acquisition of dance innovator's vast and expansive catalogue

 

Defected Records have announced the acquisition of US dance music pioneer Todd Edwards' catalogue, with the intention of making much of Edwards' music digitally available for the first time. After releasing two original singles on the label in 2019, 'You're Sorry' and 'Deeper', the London imprint will now house Edwards' vast and expansive collection of 140+ productions. Upon the acquisition, Simon Dunmore, founder and CEO of Defected said:

"Todd Edward's influence stretches extensively through the dance scene. From Daft Punk to UK Garage you can visibly see Todd's DNA. It's important to recognise his significant contribution by making his work and incredible catalogue available for the new digital generation."

Edwards, who hails from New Jersey but now resides in Los Angeles, is often credited as the godfather of UKG. His signature production style, distinguished byits chopped-up vocal samples and time and pitch shifts, was initially formed by limited access to studio equipment or a computer, but it became a major influence on the UK's burgeoning garage scene in the 1990's, shaping the sound of key artists in the genre like DJ EZ and Matt Jam Lamont. As music journalist Grant Richards writes, "There are not many producers who have been making tracks since the early 90s who you would instantly recognize by their production style. A few do spring to mind but have they been shouted out on 'Teachers', produced with and even sang with Daft Punk?"

"For over seven years, the majority of the music that established who I am as a producer was unavailable to access online. I am very happy that my back cataloguewill now be available through Defected, it is the perfect label to share the records with my core fans and also open it up to a whole new generation of listeners." – Todd Edwards

Highlights from Edwards' sparkling catalogue Defected will be shining a light on include 'Dancing For Heaven', 'Can't You Believe', 'Never Ever Far', 'Winter Behavior' and 'The Dream'. With much of his music exclusively available on vinyl and CD, the ready availability of these records will allow devotees old and new to get lost in his expansive repertoire, while introducing the music to a new generation of fans.

Other plans for the acquisition include vinyl re-issues, remixes of Todd classics and a Todd Edwards House Masters compilation on the label. Defected will also continue to release Edwards' new material.

"I have waited for this day since October 2018 and I am delighted this has now become a reality. With Todd's cult following, and the lack of assets available on digital download or streaming services, this is a significant addition to our catalogue. This is both a very proud professional and fan-boy moment. I am sure you can tell! We very much looking forward to continuing to work with Todd in the future." – WezSaunders, Managing Director, Defected Records

Defected's expansive repertoire of label and artist catalogues includes Mike Dunn,Blaze, Mr V, DJ Gregory, Classic Music Company, Nu Groove, Slip N Slide, Soulfuric, K4B Records and more, all lovingly cared for by the imprint. Todd's expansive back-catalogue paired with his cult following him make this an exciting addition to the roster.