Arden Records Launches Publishing House to Support LO-FI Artists

Expansion of Arden Records

Arden Records, self-described as a “musical label Lo-Fi-Artist Lo-Fi,” has expanded its operations by introducing a new publishing unit.

Founded in 2021 by Nepali artist Sagun in collaboration with the Artist Services, A & R, and Music Distribution Company Platoon (which was acquired by Apple in 2018), Arden means “Great Forest.” Music industry leaders Jordan Smith (S+ Mgmt) and Andrew Kwan (Romantic Musical Group) also play vital roles in the company.

Focus on Lo-Fi Artists

Since its inception, Arden has dedicated itself solely to the Lo-Fi genre, creating what the company describes as an “ecosystem dedicated exclusively to the auxiliary genre of Lo-Fi; one that champions the creativity and human touch of artists, producers, and songwriters.”

The label’s roster now includes artists such as Sagun, Clay House, Davi Juno, French Wi-Fi, Maono, Mellodaze, Nueboo, Pecna, Sleep Culture, The Tea Shop, Trankilo, Erchn, and Wrong.

Arden artists have produced various thematic compilations, including a release for Earth Day featuring sounds from diverse biomes, a 10-track collaboration with the London Symphony Orchestra titled Eternal Motive, and annual collections of sounds recorded in US national parks. The latest project includes partnerships with Apple Cards and Apple Music to create highlighted guides.

“In an industry increasingly saturated with AI-generated music, particularly in the Lo-Fi genre, we continually advocate for our artists, ensuring their authentic musicality receives the recognition it deserves.”

Andrew Kwan, Arden Records

New Publishing Endeavors

The new publishing arm aims to support producers and songwriters within the Lo-Fi genre, which continues to grow in popularity. According to Arden, this initiative will create additional opportunities for its artists while simplifying royalty collection.

“After three years, we are just now launching our publishing arm to explore new creative workflows for our Arden Records family,” stated co-founder Jordan Smith.

“There are many companies that offer administrative services for royalty collection, which is certainly part of our mission. However, our primary goal is far greater. We hope to discuss with other teams the power of alternative songs and how our talented producers can meet any production needs.”

Co-founder Andrew Kwan reaffirmed the company’s commitment to promoting “authentic musicality” in a landscape where AI-generated music is becoming more prevalent, especially in the Lo-Fi genre.

“Our mission, as a label, has always been to showcase the diverse and undeniable talents of our artists, elevating them beyond just the Lo-Fi genre,” Kwan expressed.

“In an industry increasingly filled with AI-generated music, we remain steadfast in advocating for our artists, ensuring their true musicality is recognized. The launch of our publishing enterprise marks a new and dynamic step in fulfilling this mission.”

Co-founder Sagun, who has achieved 500 million streams worldwide and multiple certified RIAA Gold Records, stated, “I am thrilled to have our own publishing arm, as it will protect the creative rights of our artists and ease royalty statement challenges. Focusing less on administrative woes allows our artists to thrive creatively, leading to new opportunities for growth.”

“Many companies provide administrative services for royalty collection. This is certainly part of what we will do to ensure our roster receives their deserved fees.”

Jordan Smith, Arden Records

Sagun’s accomplishments include production and co-writing UMI‘s 2024 single Where Would You, featuring V. from BTS, and collaborating with artists such as Mick Jenkins, Pink Siifu, Eric Architect, Pink Sweat$, Kali Claire, Syml, and Dunia.

This development comes amidst the rising popularity of the Lo-Fi genre in the broader music industry, leading to increased activity among record labels. Last year, Lofi Records and the publishing arm of the renowned YouTube channel Lofi Girl secured a publishing deal with Warner Chappell Music France, part of the Warner Music Group.

In 2021, City Center Musical Services signed five labels to their Lo-Fi roster, including the UK Homemade Working Radio and Lofi Bloom, Germany’s Easy Sound, Canada’s Internal Records of Oceans, and Sweden’s Nin Ainophyte.