Signing Story with Robert DeLongDate Signed: 2024

Label: Round Hill Records

Type of Music: Alternative Electronic Pop

Management: Hardin Bourke Entertainment

Booking: Mike Hayes, Independent Artist Group

Legal: Denise Stevens, Pierson Ferdinand, LLP

Publicity: Ashley White, Ashley White Public Relations

Web: robertdelong.com

A&R: Michael Volk

Robert DeLong is a unique artist. Due to cross-pollination of electronic subgenres and a love of indie rock, his sound has as much in common with alternative pop as the thumping beats of all-night raves. He’s an innovative multi-instrumentalist, too, incorporating tools such as video game controllers and a laser harp into his visually arresting performances. 

In the beginning, DeLong’s artistic vision might not have been so clear. He admits to being naïve when he first signed with Glassnote Records. “I didn’t understand all the moving parts,” the former drummer for The Denouement admits. One decade, three full-length albums, and two EPs later, he was ready for a fresh start. Although the label had been a perfect fit, DeLong saw it was changing and the releases slowing down. He says a move, “felt like the right thing at the right time.”

Tasked with finding a new home were his managers, Chris Hardin and Brendan Bourke of Hardin Bourke Entertainment. Having been with the duo for years, DeLong entrusted them to carry out the mission. The pair began passing around a collection of demos featuring new material that eventually ended up on the desk of Michael Volk, President of Round Hill Records. Although other labels showed interest, “Nothing else came close as far as believing in the creative direction. It was kind of a no-brainer.”

DeLong also appreciated Round Hill’s deep promotional pockets. Trusting his managers’ judgment helped settle the decision. Further, Vick is a longtime fan, and it boded well that the label wanted to shift its focus from legacy artists onto newer names with fresh perspectives.

“I’m excited to put out this record,” DeLong states regarding his Round Hill debut, Playlist of Doom. Like the signing itself, the recording fell organically into place. “Everything felt natural. And it sounds awesome. That’s all because Round Hill made it easy for me.” The post Signing Story with Robert DeLong first appeared on Music Connection Magazine.