Check out this exclusive excerpt of an interview with Ben Harper, featured in the June issue of Performing Songwriter.
Performing Songwriter: …Do you think you would ask Virgin Records, your parent label, to assist in distribution for Inland Emperor as it expands?
Ben Harper: No [flatly]. You know, right now, I … [long pause] Unless I get an amazing call from the head of EMI, I’m going to wash my hands of major-label record deals. I’m going to finish out my contract and then move on.
Performing Songwriter: Really?
Ben Harper: Yeah. Let me give you an example. Not to over exaggerate or overindulge my own sense of self-worth, but all I have is my music! No, let me correct that—I have a lot of other things: I’ve got family, I’ve got friends and I’ve got health. Let’s just really get things in their proper perspective, right? But, beyond that, my voice is my music, and everything that goes with it, whether it’s the artwork, the layout or the graphic design. And I have existed in a corporate environment, autonomously, with my own opinions and ideals. Successfully, dare I say. And that’s no small feat in this day and age. Especially making music that’s against the commercial grain. It’s one thing if you’re going to take an indie approach on a corporate label while making music that’s considered “pop.” But when you’re not only operating as an indie artist on a major label, when the music itself is outside the mainstream, it’s twice as hard. So to remain in this situation 10 years shouldn’t go unnoticed.
With that said, what EMI has done in Europe is print my CD with an embossed label on the cover. Now, a CD cover is only five inches by five inches, right? Well, they’ve embossed an inch-and-a-half insignia saying, “THIS CD IS COPY-PROTECTED.” Without me knowing and without checking with me!
As much energy and time as I put into my music … [long pause] My music is what I give of myself to culture. And it’s my cultural statement. And they have gone and embossed this huge, ugly insignia on the cover of my record. Without checking with me first! That’s not my technological statement. That’s not my social or cultural statement. That’s not my musical statement. Yet they have used my voice as a vehicle to make their copy-protection statement. And it’s bullshit. And the heads of my record label aren’t even calling to discuss the matter with me!
Performing Songwriter: I can’t believe that.
Ben Harper: Give me a break, man. I’m done. So when you ask me about EMI handling distribution for my label … I’m sorry you’re getting the long answer to a short question, but, man, I’m done with these guys.
Performing Songwriter: How long have you known about this decision?
Ben Harper: I’ve known about this a week. The record company has known … how long? And I can’t … [pause] Let’s not get egotistical about this. There are plenty of people I’m not. But I am Ben Harper, whatever that means to whoever it means. And I can’t get these guys on the phone! I’m expecting a call right now. I called them two hours ago, and they haven’t called back! And I don’t get a call but once every six months from the record company president!
Performing Songwriter: I can probably guess your advice for
up-and-coming songwriters, then…
Ben Harper: Just stay independent. Big labels offer you the potential for bigger accomplishments faster, but you’re better off just staying on a small label and working it out over the long term. Just stick to your voice. That’s my advice, man…
Source:
Ben Harper Gets Mad
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