The History Of Loud Records

Loud Records, LLC. is a hip hop record label founded by Steve Rifkind and Rich Isaacson in 19911. The label was originally distributed by Zoo and later by RCA until 1999 when distribution moved over to Columbia1.

Loud Records is known for releasing material by acts such as Wu-Tang Clan, Big Pun, Mobb Deep, Krayzie Bone, The Beatnuts, M.O.P., Tha Alkaholiks, Pete Rock, Lil’ Flip, Three 6 Mafia, Project Pat, Xzibit, Twista, Dead Prez, The Dwellas, and The X-Ecutioners1. The label also released thrash metal band Megadeth’s deluxe and remastered debut album “Killing Is My Business… And Business Is Good!” in 20021.

In 1997, the label signed rapper Big Pun. His debut album, “Capital Punishment” was released through Loud in April 1998 to critical acclaim and commercial success1. The album featured fellow Loud label-mates Inspectah Deck and Prodigy1.

In June 2007, Sony Music resurrected the label, after which Rifkind would buy it back, making it a subsidiary of SRC1. His first act after re-gaining the label was, as he did 15 years earlier, signing the Wu-Tang Clan1.

In 2020, Loud Records announced a re-launch of the label to be fully independent, giving clients the ability to own their masters1. The re-launch included changing the name from Loud Records to Loud Music Group1. The new label roster includes Rifkind’s son, Ryrif1.