Pivotal London house label Buzzin’ Fly has confirmed that it will no longer be releasing new records.
The label, run by Ben Watt, posted a message on its website yesterday confirming that it will carry on as an ‘archive’ imprint only. Buzzin’ Fly’s entire back catalogue, ranging from Ben Watt’s Lone Cat EP in 2003 to Alex Blaxx’s Evening News last year (via releases by Jimpster, Justin Martin and Manoo), will be kept available for purchases; a series of ‘comprehensive deluxe digital anthologies’ is also planned, starting with Buzzin’ Fly Anthology Vol 1: 2003-2004 on April 22.
Watt has decided to spend more time on writing. He has a new non-fiction book about his parents’ lives due out on Harry Potter publisher Bloomsbury next year, which will be accompanied by talks, signings and arts festival appearances. However, he plans to keep his BBC 6Music radio show and Strange Feeling, Buzzin’ Fly’s sister label, will continue to operate as a platform for Watt’s partner, singer Tracy Thorn.
“I loved every minute” Watt comments, “but all good things come to an end. It simply feels like the right moment. Buzzin’ Fly was born out of my commitment to the culture of DJing and helping young artists, but these days I am edging away from it towards other challenges – a new book I’m writing, research for another one, and a long-planned solo music project.... It feel appropriate to stop now in our tenth year and leave the label with, I hope, a strong reputation for what it has managed to achieve, rather than to continue with a muted presence.... You never know, there might even be another imprint one day.”
You can read the full statement at www.buzzinfly.com
