Buzzin' Fly: A Journey Through History, Artists, and Revival of a Record Label
In the vast landscape of electronic music, there are record labels that have left an indelible mark on the industry. One such label is Buzzin' Fly. Born out of the iconic Lazy Dog Sunday parties, Buzzin' Fly has etched its name in the annals of dance music history. From its humble beginnings to the recent release of their new album 'Fuse' with Everything But The Girl, let's embark on a journey through the captivating story of Buzzin' Fly.
Origins: Lazy Dog Sunday Parties and Label Creation
It all started with a vision and a shared passion for music. DJs Ben Watt and Jay Hannan were no strangers to the London club scene, and in the late 1990s, they embarked on a mission to create an atmosphere that went beyond the typical clubbing experience. The result was the Lazy Dog Sunday parties, where music lovers would gather to immerse themselves in the soulful sounds of deep house and electronic beats.
The Lazy Dog Sundays quickly gained a loyal following, attracting a diverse crowd of music enthusiasts who craved a more intimate and meaningful connection with the music. Ben Watt and Jay Hannan were not content with just hosting parties; they wanted to leave a lasting legacy. In 2003, their shared dream took shape as they launched Buzzin' Fly, a record label that would serve as a platform for their musical vision.
Artists and Remixers
Buzzin' Fly quickly became a haven for talented artists and remixers, a place where creativity thrived and musical boundaries were pushed. The label's roster reads like a who's who of the electronic music scene, with each artist bringing a unique flavor to the table.
One of the standout artists associated with Buzzin' Fly is Ame. Their hypnotic melodies and intricate productions captivated audiences worldwide. Tracks like "Rej" and "Tatischeff" became anthems on dance floors, showcasing Ame's distinct sound and cementing their place in electronic music history.
Another notable artist on the label is Justin Martin. Known for his infectious energy and playful beats, Martin's releases on Buzzin' Fly, such as "The Sad Piano" and "Sad Piano (Charles Webster Remix)," became instant favorites among fans of the label.
Buzzin' Fly also played a crucial role in nurturing emerging talents. Artists like Stimming, whose intricate and emotive productions resonated with listeners, found a home on the label. Stimming's track "Una Pena" became a staple in DJ sets around the world and propelled him into the spotlight.
Artwork and Visual Identity
In addition to its impressive roster of artists, Buzzin' Fly's visual identity became a defining aspect of the label. The artwork accompanying each release was carefully curated, mirroring the label's commitment to quality and attention to detail.
The cover designs were a visual feast, often showcasing stunning landscapes, abstract patterns, or thought-provoking imagery. From vibrant color palettes to minimalist designs, the artwork beautifully complemented the music and created a cohesive visual narrative.
Buzzin' Fly collaborated with talented visual artists and designers, fostering a synergy between music and visual arts. These collaborations allowed for innovative and boundary-pushing designs that became synonymous with the label's brand.
Events and Releases
Buzzin' Fly's commitment to curating high-quality releases is evident in its discography. The label released a series of compilation albums, EPs, and singles that have stood the test of time.
Compilation albums like "Buzzin' Fly - 5 Golden Years in the Wilderness" showcased the label's diverse sound, featuring tracks from both established artists and rising stars. These compilations served as sonic snapshots, encapsulating the label's evolution and influence over the years.
The label's compilation mix CD series also became highly anticipated releases, showcasing the best of Buzzin' Fly's sound while also introducing listeners to new artists and tracks. Each mix was meticulously curated, taking listeners on a sonic journey through the label's diverse and captivating soundscape.
These compilation mix CDs became cherished artefacts for electronic music enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive overview of Buzzin' Fly's musical ethos. From soulful house to deep and melodic techno, the compilations captured the label's evolving sonic landscape.
Buzzin' Fly also released compilation albums on vinyl and CD, further expanding their reach and allowing listeners to own physical copies of their favourite tracks. These compilation albums were a testament to the label's commitment to preserving the art of DJing and the joy of owning a tangible piece of music.
Buzzin' Fly's EP releases were often a playground for experimentation, allowing artists to explore new sounds and push their creative boundaries. From soulful vocal tracks to deep and melodic journeys, the EPs became a testament to the label's dedication to musical exploration.
Singles like "Lone Cat (Holding On)" by Ben Watt featuring Estelle and "Eve (Jay's Shep Pettibone Remix)" by Timmy Regisford featuring Lynn Lockamy became iconic releases that resonated with audiences worldwide. These tracks captured the essence of Buzzin' Fly's sound and became dancefloor staples.
Singles and EPs were the heartbeat of Buzzin' Fly's releases. Each release was carefully crafted, showcasing the label's dedication to pushing musical boundaries while staying true to its core values. From deep and introspective tracks to uplifting and dancefloor-friendly
tunes, the singles and EPs represented the breadth and depth of Buzzin' Fly's sonic universe.
Pause in 2013 and Revival with 'Fuse'
In 2013,Ben Watt decided to take a hiatus with the label Buzzin' Fly. The decision came at a time when the music industry was undergoing significant changes. Ben Watt decided both he and the label needed to regroup and reassess their direction.
The pause allowed Ben Watt and the Buzzin' Fly team to reflect on the label's legacy and recharge their creative energies. But the Buzzin' Fly spirit never truly faded away. In 2023, the label made a triumphant return with the release of their new album 'Fuse' in collaboration with Everything But The Girl.
'Fuse' marked a new chapter in Buzzin' Fly's journey, blending the electronic sensibilities of the label with the enchanting vocals of Everything But The Girl. The album, filled with introspective and emotive tracks, showcased the label's ability to adapt and evolve while staying true to their roots.
Final Word
Buzzin' Fly has left an indelible mark on the electronic music landscape. From its origins in the Lazy Dog Sunday parties to the recent release of 'Fuse,' the label has consistently pushed the boundaries of creativity and provided a platform for artists to express their musical visions.
Through its diverse roster of artists, captivating artwork, and meticulously curated releases, Buzzin' Fly has created a sonic universe that continues to resonate with music lovers around the globe.
As we look to the future, we can only anticipate the exciting possibilities that lie ahead for Buzzin' Fly. This legendary record label has proven time and time again that its voice is one that deserves to be heard and cherished. So, let the music continue to buzz and fly, as Buzzin' Fly soars to new heights.
Visit Buzzin' Fly's website to explore their captivating discography and stay updated on their latest releases.
Also while you’re at it, have a listen to my DJ mix on Mixcloud here, that features some of my favourite Buzzin’ Fly past releases.
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Find The ‘Dangerous Dougal Egoland Classics - Yoshitoshi and Shinichi Recordings Mixcloud DJ mix here.
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