Even in 2024, most of the decision-making power in country and roots music remains in the hands of white executives and managers. But Origins Records, announced today, is one of a small but growing number of Black-led record labels launched recently, and that’s a notable change in and of itself. 

The co-founders are Gina Miller and Kadeem Phillips. Both are recognized leaders in the music business. Miller first made her mark heading up gospel and R&B labels, and Phillips has steered rap performers and producers to platinum success and helped promising R&B artists, like Raemi, get started in Nashville. Their new venture, a partnership with Hitmaker Music Group, builds on those connections.  

Both Miller and Phillips have embraced pushing for racial equality in the industry as an important part of their work, through diversity committees, mentoring programs and other consistent efforts. Miller has been a driving force behind the organization Nashville Music Equality, and Phillips directed the Creatives’ Day artist residency program and was part of the first cohort of the Equal Access program.

Here’s how Phillips sees it: “For my people, for Black people, our stories are often untold or misrepresented. And I feel like by doing this, no matter what genre it is, I get to be a part of fixing it. I get to be the protector of the culture.” 

As the executives in charge of this new label, Phillips and Miller are positioned to help Black artists pursue their country and roots ambitions. The first two signings they’ve announced are David Junior and Tae Lewis.