R.E.X. Records, also known as R.E.X. Music, was an independent record label founded by Doug Mann and Gavin Morkel,[2] which operated from 1987 until running into financial difficulty in 1995.[3] Operations were based in Chicago until 1990 when the company moved to Nashville.[4] The label was artistic in nature, and though they were especially active in the Christian metal genre some acts (such as Circle of Dust) were also marketed to mainstream audiences.[2] Sublabels included Storyville Records and Street Level Records, founded by Randy Stonehill.[5]

R.E.X. Records
Founded1987 (1987)
FounderDoug Mann, Gavin Morkel
Defunct1995 (1995)
StatusDefunct
Distributor(s)Diamante Music Group, Light Distribution
GenreChristian metal
Country of originU.S.
LocationNew Jersey[1]
Chicago, Illinois
Nashville, Tennessee

Operations

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In Christian markets their records were distributed by the Diamante Music Group until 1995 when they switched to Light Distribution (see Light Records), by then a division of Platinum Entertainment.[5] In general markets they were distributed by RED. By 1996 R.E.X was experiencing layoffs and looking for a buyer. Platinum acquired the label in July 1996.[6]

In 1997 R.E.X. sued Platinum for breach of contract, asserting that Platinum had not properly distributed their product and had misrepresented their financial position in the buyout.[6]

For a short time R.E.X. provided distribution for Jesus People USA's Grrr Records.[7] Employee Alex Parker left and began Flying Tart in 1990. Founder Doug Mann took a position with ForeFront Records in April 1993.[1][8]

Artists

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See also

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References

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  1. ^ a b Mann, Doug (October 16, 2016). "Doug Mann, founder of R.E.X. Records (Part One)". Interviewed by Trav Turner and Bruce Fitzhugh. As the Story Grows. Retrieved October 17, 2016.
  2. ^ a b Seay, Davin (1995-04-29). "Gospel grunge & righteous rap: christian music alternatives make waves". Billboard Magazine. 107 (17): 34.
  3. ^ Akins, Debra (March 1996). "R.E.X. Future Uncertain". CCM Magazine. 18 (9): 24. ISSN 1524-7848.
  4. ^ Akins, Debra (1996-01-15). "R.E.X. Pursues Purchaser, Cuts Staff". CCM Update. OCLC 22937802.
  5. ^ a b Darden, Bob (1994-08-13). "R.E.X. in deal with Light Distrib; pact covers Christian marketplace". Billboard Magazine. 106 (33): 8.
  6. ^ a b Warren, Lindy (1997-07-14). "R.E.X. Music Sues Platinum". CCM Update. OCLC 22937802.
  7. ^ Brown, Bruce A. (February 1994). "R.E.X. Begins to Distribute for Grrr Records". CCM Magazine. 16 (8): 12. ISSN 1524-7848.
  8. ^ "ForeFront Restructures Marketing Department". CBA Marketplace. 30 (7): 33. July 1997. ISSN 1092-7239. OCLC 36184061.
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