IRON GATE RECORDS

First I want to give a huge shout out to our newest Team Member Callie Towe, Man has she been great. Callie has an incrdible work ethic and outstanding design and creativity skills, but she has a geniune care for others. You can read more about Callie on her Profile page. (Coming soon!)

This is a great Read, so please take the time to read it. Very Insightful about Irongate Records and what they are about.

So now here is the Interview that was conducted and handled by Callie Towe with Irongate Records Co-Founder and Ceo, Mr. Mark A. Skoda

Hi Mark, thanks for taking the time to chat with us. We are very excited to have an opportunity to speak with you today. Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what got you into the music industry?

Thank you for having me! My journey into the music industry has been quite unique. I’ve spent much of my career in technology, logistics, and digital marketing, working with global brands like UPS. Over the years, I saw a growing synergy between technology and creative industries, particularly music. My experience in programming and digital services allowed me to see how data and digital tools could help independent artists take control of their careers in a way that wasn't possible before.

Iron Gate Records actually began out of love for my son’s band, SKODA, which was the first band I signed to the label. I wrote the business plan to share with his drum teacher and mentor, Greg Upchurch of 3 Doors Down. The idea was simple—if I could do this for the love of my son, I could do it for other artists as well. It was important to me that my son owned his songs and didn’t experience the common problems many artists face when working with traditional labels. That personal connection sparked a deeper passion for artist development and helping musicians navigate the complexities of the modern music landscape. I wanted to provide support and resources to independent artists who often struggle to make their mark in an industry that can be difficult to break into.

What inspired the name Iron Gate Records?

The name "Iron Gate Records" symbolizes strength and resilience. Iron represents something that is solid and durable, while a gate suggests opportunity and protection. Our goal is to be a strong gatekeeper, providing our artists with both the freedom to explore their creativity and the support they need to navigate the complexities of the music industry. We're here to open doors for artists while ensuring they have a secure foundation.

How did your record agency get started? What was the initial vision or goal?

Iron Gate Records began as a way to bridge the gap between independent artists and the resources they need to succeed in a digital world. Initially, it started with my son’s band, SKODA, which needed strong representation, along with promotion and technology support, to help them break through in the industry. I realized that many independent artists faced the same challenges and could benefit from similar assistance.

The initial vision was to create a platform that not only signs artists but empowers them with the tools and knowledge to take control of their own careers. We aimed to use our expertise in digital marketing, data analytics, and artist development to create a sustainable model where musicians could thrive independently. This model has allowed us to expand and support artists across different genres, offering them the representation and support they need to succeed without the typical pitfalls of working with traditional labels.

What kind of artists or music genres does your agency specialize in? Are there any specific niches or markets you target?

We’re quite diverse in our offerings, specializing in genres like rock, metal, country, and hard rock. Recently, we’ve expanded into metal with bands like Kantation and Dirty Space Groove. Our goal is to target independent artists who may not have access to big label support but have the talent and drive to succeed.

It’s important to note that we’re not a vanity label. We don’t sign just anyone. My team thoroughly reviews each artist before bringing them on board, ensuring they align with our values and goals. We look for artists who not only show exceptional talent but also demonstrate a clear vision for their careers and a strong work ethic. Our roster spans a variety of niches, including traditional rock, metal, and country, but we’re always open to evolving with new sounds and genres.

What services do you offer to your artists? Do you handle bookings, management, marketing, or other aspects of their careers?

Iron Gate Records offers a comprehensive suite of services to our artists, providing everything they need to build a successful and sustainable career. In addition to digital marketing, social media management, and artist development, we also offer website development, streaming and playlist management, music video production, and graphic design services. Our approach includes creating professional EPKs (Electronic Press Kits) and assisting with concert bookings, promotions, and brand building.

We’re committed to transparency and providing artists with the tools to manage their careers effectively. We focus on helping them with content creation, digital analytics, and fan engagement to ensure their presence is strong across multiple platforms. For instance, we provide full-scale support to promote the artist’s music.  Recently, we developed a case study for our artist, Garrett Huffman to inspire other aspiring artists. Our services go beyond the basics to provide the resources artists need to thrive in today’s competitive music landscape.

What is your agency's philosophy or approach to working with artists? Do you have a specific artist development strategy?

Our philosophy is rooted in transparency, innovation, and long-term growth. We believe that empowering artists with knowledge and the right tools is key to their sustained success. At Iron Gate Records, we view ourselves not just as a record label but as strategic partners for our artists, guiding them through the complexities of the modern music industry.

Our artist development strategy is highly personalized and hands-on. We focus not only on the artist's music but also on building their brand, refining their market positioning, and enhancing their digital presence across platforms. In today’s digital-first world, having a strong online identity is as important as having a great sound, so we work closely with each artist to ensure they understand how to connect with audiences, build engagement, and develop their unique narrative.

We also want our artists to understand the business side of music, which is why we invest in building strong foundations for their careers through education, data-driven insights, and targeted marketing strategies. Our approach includes everything from crafting a professional image and optimizing social media to understanding streaming algorithms and managing royalties. By providing these resources and fostering a culture of innovation, we ensure that our artists have the skills and tools to make informed decisions and thrive in a highly competitive industry. The ultimate goal is to help them achieve both creative and financial success over the long term.

How have the music industry and the role of record agencies changed over the years? What are some of the most significant challenges or opportunities facing the industry today?

The music industry has undergone massive changes, particularly with the rise of streaming platforms and digital distribution. Traditional record labels no longer hold the same gatekeeping power they once did, but that has also led to new challenges. Many major labels now take a larger portion of an artist’s earnings, often controlling not just the music but also various revenue streams such as merchandise, touring, and licensing deals. This has become the norm for labels trying to sustain their business in a rapidly changing landscape.

At Iron Gate Records, we take a different approach. Our model is subscription-based, meaning that artists pay for our services, but they retain full ownership of their music and all related revenue streams. This allows our artists to keep more of what they earn and maintain creative control over their careers. We focus on providing tools, digital marketing, and artist development services that empower artists to reach their audiences without having to give up a significant percentage of their income.

The challenge now lies in cutting through the noise, as artists are competing in a global digital landscape. But the opportunities are immense. Independent artists can now reach global audiences without the need for a traditional label, and that’s where we come in—helping them maximize these opportunities without sacrificing their autonomy. By offering more value through digital marketing, data-driven strategies, and hands-on development, we provide artists the support they need to navigate this new landscape while ensuring they keep control of their creative and financial futures.

How has the rise of streaming platforms and digital distribution impacted the music industry and your agency's business model?

Streaming platforms have revolutionized how music is consumed, offering global reach and the ability to instantly connect with fans worldwide. However, they’ve also introduced significant challenges, particularly when it comes to generating meaningful income from streams alone. With millions of tracks available and algorithms that often favor established artists, it’s common for independent musicians to struggle in gaining visibility on these platforms. As mentioned in our blog, The Streaming Paradox, many tracks simply languish in obscurity without the right strategies to cut through the noise.

At Iron Gate Records, we recognize that streaming alone is not enough to sustain an artist's career. Our business model is built to adapt to these changes by focusing on multiple revenue streams, such as merchandising, live performances, and direct-to-fan engagement through digital platforms. We emphasize the importance of diversifying income sources, ensuring that our artists aren’t dependent on streams alone.

To overcome the challenges of streaming, we employ a combination of digital marketing strategies, playlist management, and data analytics to help our artists maximize their presence. We leverage the potential of streaming platforms while ensuring our artists build a direct connection with their fan base. By focusing on fan engagement, content creation, and data-driven promotion, we ensure that their music not only reaches a broader audience but also converts into tangible support, whether through merchandise sales, concert tickets, or exclusive content.

The key lies in providing artists with a more holistic approach, where streaming is part of a larger strategy that includes multiple touchpoints with fans. This allows our artists to thrive in an environment where many tracks would otherwise be overlooked. Ultimately, we want our artists to take control of their careers by maximizing their potential across all digital platforms while benefiting from other revenue streams that strengthen their financial independence.

What strategies do you use to discover new talent and promote your artists in today's competitive landscape?

We have a strong focus on digital platforms and data analytics when discovering new talent. Our A&R team actively seeks out artists who show not just musical talent but a unique ability to connect with audiences. We leverage AI tools and data-driven insights to assess market trends and artist potential. Additionally, we work closely with our artists to build organic followings through social media and digital content. Promotion-wise, we use a blend of traditional marketing and cutting-edge digital techniques to amplify their presence.

What factors do you consider when signing new artists? How do you assess an artist's potential for success?

When signing new artists, we take a holistic approach. It’s not just about musical talent—although that’s obviously important—but also about work ethic, digital presence, and marketability. We want to work with artists who understand the importance of building a community around their music. The ability to connect with fans and foster genuine engagement is crucial in today’s industry.

We assess an artist's potential by analyzing how they interact with their audience, the quality of their content, and how they approach their career from a business perspective. It’s not just about talent; it’s about whether the artist is willing to put in the hard work to achieve long-term success. Their commitment to growing both creatively and professionally is key.

Additionally, I have to personally like both the music and the artist. For me, it’s essential that there’s an alignment between the artist’s vision and the culture of Iron Gate Records. We believe in fostering a supportive, collaborative environment, so it’s important that any new artist fits into that

ethos. The music has to resonate, and the artist’s values and approach need to align with ours. This cultural fit ensures that we can build strong, lasting relationships, and ultimately helps create an environment where the artist can thrive.

What kind of support and resources do you provide to your artists to help them develop their careers?

At Iron Gate Records, we offer a wide array of services designed to empower our artists and ensure they can build sustainable, long-term careers. We provide access to professional production services, digital marketing support, and comprehensive social media management. But our involvement goes beyond music releases. We offer guidance on touring strategies, merchandise development, and fan engagement to help artists connect with their audience and grow their brand.

Our approach is holistic. For example, we recently developed extensive Electronic Press Kits (EPKs) for several of our artists, which have been instrumental in securing new performance opportunities. These kits, combined with strategic digital marketing and content creation, are just part of how we help our artists reach the next level.

Additionally, we provide innovative tools to further enhance our artists’ success. Our social media analytics platform allows them to monitor and optimize their engagement across various digital platforms, making data-driven decisions to better connect with their fans. We also offer NFC-enabled contact management, which enables artists to streamline fan interactions and create deeper connections at live events through digital touchpoints.

Looking to the future, we are excited to launch GeoMelody, a groundbreaking platform designed to ensure fair compensation and support for musicians by utilizing advanced technology. GeoMelody will further our mission of helping artists thrive in a digital-first world by providing more control over their revenue streams and ensuring they are fairly compensated for their work.

At Iron Gate Records, we’re committed to providing artists with everything they need, not just to release music, but to build a sustainable, independent career with tools that set them up for success in today’s competitive landscape.

How do you maintain strong and collaborative relationships with your artists? What are some of the key challenges or rewards of working closely with musicians?

Maintaining strong relationships with our artists comes down to open communication and mutual respect. We see our artists as partners and invest time in understanding their vision and goals. The key challenge is balancing creative freedom with business objectives, but the reward is seeing an artist grow both creatively and professionally.

One of our biggest challenges is getting artists to fully embrace the technology we provide. We offer a range of tools, including our social media analytics platform, NFC-enabled contact management, and the soon-to-launch GeoMelody platform. While these technologies can be transformative, some artists may initially hesitate to adopt them. To help with this, we provide personalized guidance and support to make the transition smoother.

In addition to regular video calls, our podcast, and IGR Radio, we stay connected through email and send out a monthly newsletter called "Behind The Gate." This newsletter provides valuable insights, updates, and industry news, and artists are encouraged to read and share it with their fans. By offering a variety of communication channels, we ensure our artists feel supported and informed while helping them leverage these tools to build stronger fan relationships and grow their careers.

How is your agency structured? Do you have a team of employees or do you work independently?

We have a dedicated team, including A&R personnel, digital marketers, social media managers, and audio engineers. While I oversee the strategic direction, each team member plays a vital role in supporting our artists. Our structure allows us to scale and provide personalized attention to each artist while leveraging the collective skills of our team.

What are some of the financial challenges or considerations involved in running a record agency? How do you manage your agency's finances?

Running a record label like Iron Gate Records presents significant financial challenges, particularly when it comes to artist development, marketing, and keeping up with technological advancements. We manage our finances by creating diversified revenue streams, including live events, digital sales, and merchandise, which allows us to reinvest in both the artists and the label itself.

Our financial model is primarily based on subscriptions and a la carte services. This structure ensures that both we and the artist always know the budget and the expected outcomes, which makes financial planning transparent and predictable. By offering a la carte services, artists have the flexibility to choose exactly what they need without being tied to unnecessary costs.

To keep expenses manageable, we generally mark up our services by only 20%, which helps us keep costs down while offering artists a financial benefit. This transparent, cost-effective approach allows us to provide high-quality services while ensuring that artists can invest in their careers without breaking the bank. Additionally, we reinvest increasing revenues into new technologies and offerings, ensuring that we stay ahead of the curve in an evolving industry.

With our acquisition of 3 Rare Designs, a digital marketing services agency, we further streamline costs by leveraging a low-cost offshore solution to deliver the latest technology. This setup allows us to maximize returns on investments while staying financially flexible, ensuring both Iron Gate Records and our artists thrive in a competitive marketplace.

How important are relationships with other industry professionals, such as booking agents, promoters, and music labels? How do you build and maintain these relationships?

Relationships with industry professionals are crucial to the success of Iron Gate Records. We work closely with booking agents, promoters, and other labels to ensure that our artists have the best opportunities available. These collaborations help our artists secure performances, gain exposure, and expand their reach. Building and maintaining these relationships requires a lot of networking, transparency, and a commitment to delivering value in everything we do.

One way we actively foster these relationships is through our ongoing Iron Gate Records Showcases. We’ve built strong partnerships with venues, particularly in Nashville, where we host showcases to present our artists to new audiences. These showcases are a key part of our strategy for elevating our artists and giving them the chance to perform in front of industry professionals, fans, and potential collaborators.

In addition to venue relationships, we’ve applied for membership with the Grammy organization, which will help further elevate our artists' profiles and open more doors for them at a global level. This affiliation, along with our relationship with HOME in Nashville, puts us in a unique position to nurture artists and connect them with the resources they need to succeed.

We are also active participants in various Facebook groups dedicated to music promotion, networking, and industry trends. These groups allow us to stay connected with other professionals and keep our finger on the pulse of the latest developments in the industry.

Our approach to building and maintaining these relationships is straightforward: we aim to bring value to every partnership by being reliable, transparent, and forward-thinking. This ensures that Iron Gate Records and our artists have access to the best opportunities while creating lasting, mutually beneficial collaborations.

What do you see as the future of the music industry and the role of record agencies? What trends or developments do you think will have the biggest impact?

The future of the music industry lies in technology and data. Streaming will continue to dominate, but the most significant shift will be the increasing importance of direct artist-to-fan relationships through digital platforms. As artists gain more control over how they engage with their audience, record agencies will need to adapt by offering more than just traditional services. It will no longer be enough to simply distribute music—agencies will need to empower artists with tools that foster deeper, more meaningful connections with their fans.

One way we’re leading this transformation at Iron Gate Records is through GeoMelody, our upcoming platform designed to hyperlocalize and socialize the artist-fan relationship. GeoMelody leverages technology to create a more immersive fan experience, connecting artists with their audiences in real time and at a local level. By utilizing geolocation and personalized fan interactions, artists can engage with their listeners in a way that feels organic and intimate, fostering loyalty and increasing revenue opportunities. This kind of hyperlocal engagement is crucial for building a sustainable career in the digital age.

In addition to GeoMelody, we believe the biggest impact in the future will come from AI, blockchain for music rights management, and immersive experiences through virtual reality. These technologies will change how artists monetize their music and how fans experience it. AI will allow for more personalized recommendations and marketing, while blockchain will help ensure fair compensation for artists by securely tracking music rights and royalties. Virtual reality, on the other hand, will open up new possibilities for live performances and fan interaction, creating entirely new ways for audiences to connect with artists.

At Iron Gate Records, we are already leveraging these technologies to stay ahead of the curve. Our commitment to embracing these trends ensures that we continue to provide our artists with the tools they need to succeed in this evolving landscape. The future of music isn’t just about streams; it’s about creating deeper, more interactive relationships between artists and fans, and we are proud to be at the forefront of that movement.

What are your long-term goals for your record agency? Are there any specific areas you hope to expand or grow in the future?

Our long-term goal at Iron Gate Records is to continue empowering independent artists while significantly expanding our digital services. We aim to become a global leader in artist development by integrating more advanced technology solutions, including AI-driven marketing, fan engagement, and content creation tools. By leveraging AI, we help our artists optimize their social media strategies, automate content creation, and enhance their digital presence, making it easier for them to connect with audiences and grow their careers.

This is a big idea, but it’s definitely part of our long-term strategy. We also plan to expand internationally, working with artists across different geographies and markets. The music industry is rapidly changing, and we want to be at the forefront, adapting quickly to meet the evolving needs of artists worldwide.

We’ve developed a flexible structure through our technology, which allows us to respond swiftly to market changes and offer the appropriate services when needed. Whether it’s tapping into new platforms, genres, or trends, our structure ensures that we can adapt without missing a beat.

A key part of our future is also the ability to offer mass customization around our service structure, using AI and data-driven insights to tailor solutions for individual artists. This allows us to scale our offerings while maintaining a personalized touch. As the music industry continues to evolve, we’re committed to staying ahead by providing the right tools and services to help our artists succeed, no matter how the market shifts.

Ultimately, we envision a future where our services are accessible to artists from around the world, empowering them with the tools they need to take control of their careers. With our adaptable and technology-driven approach, Iron Gate Records will continue to grow and thrive in this changing landscape.

How does Iron Gate Records look now vs. when you first began?

Iron Gate Records has evolved significantly since its inception. We started as a small label focusing on a few artists, but we’ve grown into a full-service agency with a wide range of offerings. From the very beginning, my goal was to build a technology-savvy record label that works with good to great artists, providing them with the tools and support they need to succeed. Our flexibility to adapt to industry changes has been key to this growth.

We’ve fully embraced new technologies, allowing us to stay ahead of the curve in areas like digital marketing, fan engagement, and content creation. Our roster has expanded to include a variety of genres, from rock and metal to country, showcasing the diversity of talent we work with. While the core mission of empowering artists remains the same, we now have the infrastructure, the technology, and the team to make an even bigger impact in the industry.

Most importantly, we focus on helping our artists succeed while having fun in the process. We believe that music should be a joyful journey, and we want our artists to enjoy the creative and business sides of their careers. With a flexible, forward-thinking approach, we are proud of how far we’ve come and excited for what’s ahead.

What is your favorite thing about Iron Gate Records?

My favorite thing about Iron Gate Records is the ability to make a real difference in an artist's career. Seeing them grow, gain confidence, and achieve their dreams is incredibly rewarding. Each artist brings a unique energy, and I’m always amazed by the sheer talent out there. Being part of that journey is something I cherish.

I also love that we’re constantly innovating. Whether it's through digital marketing strategies, AI tools, or strategic partnerships, we’re always pushing the boundaries to give our artists the best possible support. Every day offers the chance to learn something new, and that’s a big part of what keeps me excited about this industry. I find it fulfilling to not only bring fresh ideas to the label but also to evolve alongside the industry and help our artists stay ahead of the curve.

Iron Gate Records isn’t just about business—it’s about creativity, growth, and making the journey enjoyable for everyone involved. It’s that combination of learning, innovation, and artistry that keeps me passionate about what we do.

Do you have anything coming up you would like to share with readers?

Absolutely! We have several exciting events and releases coming up. One of our most anticipated projects is the Iron Gate Records Showcase, which will feature our roster of artists at The Vinyl Lounge in Nashville. Additionally, we’re promoting the latest album release from Oblivea, "Immortal," and their Grammy-nominated single, "Black Sheep." We’re also planning several live events at Starstruck Farm, including local artist performances and a series of songwriter rounds that are sure to attract music lovers.

On the technology side, we’re thrilled to introduce GeoMelody, a platform aimed at ensuring fair compensation and support for musicians through innovative digital tools. Alongside that, we’re rolling out our social media platform to help artists better manage their online presence and engage with their fans. To complement this, we’ve developed NFC-enabled band business cards, making it easier for artists to connect with fans and industry professionals through seamless, digital interactions.

We’re also expanding our operations by hiring dedicated offshore staff to prospect for bookings. This will help streamline the process for our artists and ensure they are getting the best opportunities to perform and grow their careers. Additionally, we are looking to bring on more talented artists to leverage the resources and capabilities of the label as we continue to grow and expand into new markets.

There’s a lot happening, and we’re excited to share it with our fans and the broader music community. We’re constantly innovating, and these new initiatives will allow us to provide even more value to the artists we represent while keeping us at the cutting edge of the industry

Thank you for the opportunity to share all the exciting things happening at Iron Gate Records. We're truly passionate about empowering artists and shaping the future of the music industry through innovation, technology, and collaboration.

For anyone interested in learning more or getting involved, feel free to reach out to me directly at mark@irongaterecords.com.

You can also sign up for our email newsletter at www.irongaterecords.com to stay updated on our latest news, releases, and events.

Thanks again, and we look forward to what the future holds!