Kill Rock Stars: We Wanted Everything to Change

Kill Rock Stars is one of indie rock’s most respected record labels, known by fans for its superior taste in music, and by musicians for its ethical approach to business. Nirvana, Sleater-Kinney and Elliott Smith all have roots at the label. But there are a lot of bumps on the road, as you take a business from a one-bedroom apartment to the big time. Follow founder Slim Moon and current label president Portia Sabin, who happen to be married, as they face personal tragedy, their personal demons, and a massive change in their industry’s business model. Through it all, it’s a story about making a space for yourself, and putting people before profits. The Venture is hosted by Ashley Milne-Tyte This episode features: Slim Moon, founder of Kill Rock Stars Portia Sabin, president of Kill Rock Stars Corin Tucker, co-founder of Sleater-Kinney Cameron Esposito, comedian Rhea Butcher, comedian Sean Nelson, arts and music editor, The Stranger/member of Harvey Danger George Howard, co-founder, Music Audience Exchange and founder of Slow River Records Jessica Hopper, executive editor of MTV News and author of The First Collection of Criticism by a Living Female Rock Critic Songs and Audio featured in this episode include: “Conflict Free Diamonds” by Kinski "Feels Blind" by Bikini Kill "Die" by Bratmobile "Rebel Girl" by Bikini Kill “Tip Toe Blues (Instrumental)” by Michael Smith “Mean” by Slim Moon (spoken word) “You Speak Jealousy” by Unwound “Reject All American” by Bikini Kill “Miss Misery (Early Version)” by Elliott Smith “Howl at the Moon (Instrumental)” by Werwulf "We Think She's a Nurse" by Kinski “Arresting and Existing (Edit) (Instrumental)” by Keen Collective “Needle in the Hay” by Elliott Smith “Steady Waltz (Alt. 1) (Instrumental)” by WZRDS “Automatic Music” by Stereo Total “Real Butcher” by Rhea Butcher (comedy) “Fremm” by bed. “Illegal” by Stereo Total Check out our Spotify playlist inspired by this episode, including many songs you heard in this story: To learn more about The Venture, go to virginatlantic.com/theventure Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices