James Blake Goes Independent, Leaves Record Label After Launching Alternative Streaming Platform

James Blake
Larry Marano/Getty Images for National YoungArts Foundation

James Blake is starting a new chapter in his career as he's going to work as an independent artist after leaving his record label. The recent changes in his professional life have come since he launched an alternative streaming platform.

According to Far Out magazine, the musician was first signed under A&M Records, where he released his self-titled debut album in 2011. Later, he struck a deal with Republic Records, dropping all his albums, such as The Colour In Anything, Assume Form, Overgrown, and many more.

The singer posted a video on his social media accounts revealing his decision to part ways with his record label and continue his career independently.

"It feels good to be independent because I've wanted to take things into my own hands for a long time," he said.

Blake added that he's excited to connect more with his fans. Now that he's not under a record label anymore, he will have more opportunities to have a more direct relationship with them.

James Blake Feels Scared Working Independently After Being With a Record Label for Years

Although he felt a sense of freedom and happiness after his time with the record label, he also noted that he was scared of the concept of working as an independent artist.

"After over a decade on a label, it feels scary to go independent, but here we are. As someone who hates spam, I promise not to send you annoying emails. Just trying to break free of the algorithm gods gatekeeping art," he said.

James Blake has been open about his opinions regarding how unfair streaming platforms are for artists. He believes that the companies don't pay them fairly.

James Blake Alternative Streaming Platform

According to Variety, the musician partnered with Vault, a streaming platform focusing on unreleased music.

He told his fans that his partnership with the app is still in its experimental phase. Fans can subscribe to the streaming platform for $5 per month to access songs that has yet to be released to the public.

"It's music direct from me to you, where no one can gatekeep what I release to you, or delay my releases... And it's got a chat section for everyone to discuss the music," he added.

Tags
James Blake, News, Music, Streaming
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