Music News
Feb 1, 2025
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Big Loud has officially partnered with Severance Records in a new joint venture, further expanding its diverse music catalog. Severance, an independent rock label based in Nashville, was founded in 2023 by seasoned industry professionals Mike Easterlin and Steve “Stevo” Robertson. This collaboration with Big Loud Records marks an exciting new chapter for the label.
Severance Records aims to create a cultural impact by breaking alternative rock music on a global scale. The label’s founders bring a wealth of experience in the rock music industry. Easterlin, who most recently served as Co-President of Elektra Entertainment, has held significant roles at Fueled By Ramen, Roadrunner Records, and Virgin Records. Over the years, he has been instrumental in fostering artists like Smashing Pumpkins, Lenny Kravitz, Blur, Panic! At The Disco, Twenty One Pilots, Paramore, Shinedown, Bailey Zimmerman, and more.
Robertson, with 25 years of experience at Atlantic Records, most recently served as GM/SVP of A&R for Pop/Rock in Nashville. His career highlights include signing Shinedown, Paramore, and A Day To Remember, as well as working with acts like GAYLE, Collective Soul, and Matchbox 20.
Severance’s first major signings are the Southern alt-rock band Dexter and The Moonrocks. Hailing from Texas, the band’s sound is a fusion of influences ranging from Rainbow Kitten Surprise and Foo Fighters to Tyler Childers and Whiskey Myers, resulting in their unique take on Southern rock.
Mike Easterlin shared his excitement about the partnership, saying, “Stevo and I couldn’t be more thrilled to join the Big Loud family. From the moment we met with Seth, Joey, Craig, and Greg, we felt supported in building this venture. Big Loud’s success in the country space has only fueled our ambition to make Severance a major player in the alternative scene. We’re rooted in Nashville, but our vision is global.”
Seth England, Partner and CEO of Big Loud, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Mike and Stevo have shaped some of the most impactful, culture-defining music over the last two decades. When the chance to collaborate with them in this capacity came up, it was an easy 'yes.' We’re excited to work alongside them to build a lasting legacy with Severance.”
This collaboration adds to Big Loud’s growing roster of label offshoots. The company launched Big Loud Texas in November 2023 in partnership with Miranda Lambert and Jon Randall and Big Loud Rock in 2021. Since its founding in 2015, Big Loud has garnered billions of global streams, multiple No. 1 hits, and more than 70 RIAA certified titles, solidifying its status as a major force in the music industry.