Introducing Saffron Records

Bristol’s music scene has seen the ebbs and flows of many a musical start-up and budding record label over the years, but new kids on the block Saffron Records boast a USP that few have truly managed to master – a social conscience.

Focusing on female artists between 16 and 24, the label seeks to develop and nurture raw, young talent in a fair and ethical way, giving artists the support they need to carve out a place for themselves in what is still a very male-dominated industry.

The brainchild of Laura Lewis-Paul, a woman with a passion for the arts and a rich background in creative youth work, Saffron Records is an organisation that not only aims to put female musicians firmly on the map, but also to encourage young people to express themselves in a healthy and rewarding way.

“I really love working with young people, especially when it’s music focused,” says founder Laura. “It’s such a great way for them to express who they are, what they’re feeling and what they’re about. I’ve seen music bring out the best in so many young people and it’s such a universal thing. Music is so connected to emotion and I think that’s why it’s so important.”

With Saffron Records set to launch on Monday, Laura is looking ahead to the label’s first signings, having already received demos from many talented musicians across the city.

“We’ve had some amazing, amazing music sent in. I mean I’m not surprised – there’s talent all over Bristol – but it’s been really exciting to see the amount of interest in the label already.”

Laura is keen to keep the focus on empowering and engaging young people throughout the record label, which will be headed-up by the two apprentices she’ll be taking on – one in A&R and one in Digital Marketing. 

She also has plans to extend the organisation into schools, creating a safe space for girls to try their hand at a range of musical skills.

“There’s a massive lack of female representation in the electronic and hip hop scenes, so we’re going to be offering music production, DJing and MCing lessons in the classroom. I think young women feel more comfortable learning in a school-based environment, so I want to take those opportunities to them.” 

To mark the launch, the Saffron team have organised a live music event on September 14 at the Colston Hall, which will also be their central base. The party will showcase some of Bristol’s finest female acts, including Sophie Ellam, Shanti Celeste and Saffron patron and Dub Mafia frontwoman Eva Lazarus. 

The launch will also be an opportunity for young women interested in the music business to network, share their music and get inspired – and will mark what we hope to be the next chapter in Bristol’s ongoing artistic success.

For more information, visit www.saffronrecords.co.uk.