RED Distribution has signed an exclusive multi-year agreement with acclaimed Houston-based label Rap-A-Lot Records for digital and physical distribution in the U.S. and Canada, effective August 15, 2013. Rap-A-Lot was previously distributed by INgrooves.
Founded in 1986 by James Prince, Rap-A-Lot has paved the way for southern hardcore rap, sometimes referred to as “gangsta rap.” The label’s break-out act, Geto Boys, put the Southern states on the hip-hop map. The label has been influential to collectives such as No Limit and Cash Money. Along with Geto Boys, the Rap-A-Lot catalog includes iconic artists ScarfaceDevin The Dude, Yukmouth, Do or Die, Slim thug, Pimp C and more. The label continues to enhance the careers of Bun B, Z-Ro and more. Bun B will release a new album on Rap-A-Lot in October with featured artists including Rick Ross and 2 Chainz.
James Prince states, “It’s an honor to be in business with RED Distribution. I’m looking forward to working with Bob Morelli and Alan Becker and merging the experienced staffs to create a lot more success in the industry.”
With current break-out artists such as Joey Bada$$ and Kendrick Lamar nodding to 90’s hip-hop, Rap-A-Lot’s catalog further molds RED’s base of legacy product from this era, which includes the iconic Ruthless Records, Loud, Relativity, Hypnotized Minds and Violator.
Alan Becker, SVP of Product Development at RED, notes, ” Over 25 years, James Prince has kept Rap-A-Lot true to its roots, while always pushing the boundaries of rap music. Like RED, Rap-A-Lot has endured the test of time and is still on top of its game. We are invigorated to be partnered with Rap-A-Lot as the label enters into the next round of its impressive history.”
Adds RED President Bob Morelli, “James Prince and Rap-A-Lot have made a mark as one of the most significant imprints in the history of rap music. With the incredible catalog and new Bun B album coming in October, we are well positioned for a great new chapter in the Rap-A-Lot story.”
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