I read today that Kill Rock Stars will be closing down its 5 Rue Christine imprint. This got me thinking about imprints that have met similar fate, a list of which is below. I’m continually surprised to see labels start imprints as each imprint always struggles from the same twin set of problems: (1) having to build up name recognition again; and (2) confusing fans on why the signed band wouldn’t fit on the parent label. The exceptions to the rule have seemed to figure out answers to this — Anti and Hellcat for example, are under the Epitaph umbrella, but each has its own personality, potentially different audience, and style of marketing and image.

A few side labels that didn’t work with the main dish:

Crisis (Revelation)

Honest Don’s (Fat)

Rushmore (Drive Thru — this one may still be on life support)

Brightside (Blackout)

Division 36 (Bridge Nine)

Heroes and Villains (Vagrant)