South City Records showcases student talent

Did you know that the University of Southern Mississippi has a recording studio on campus? Not only that, but it has a fully functioning, student-operated record label that signs, promotes and develops artists to be able to take on the industry.

South City Records was founded in 2005 by a former entertainment industry professor as a tool for students to get hands-on experience to hone their craft before taking on this truly competitive market.  Over the years, the label has grown and has signed several bands, including indie rock band Mississippi Shakedown and rock band Travelogue For Exiles.

Currently, South City is working to release a compilation album featuring 10 bands that were chosen from a variety of demos submitted during the fall semester of the previous year. These bands will then compete via a point system that will ultimately get them signed to South City and have an EP produced by the label. This year’s compilation album, “Sounds from the Burg,” will be released in November.

Label president and senior entertainment industry major Robert Thronson thinks the label is a great way for students to get their hands dirty and gain valuable experience.

“Having South City Records on the campus of Southern Miss is huge for everyone involved with music, the production of music and anyone who wants to be educated on the many career paths the entertainment industry has to offer,” Thronson said.

However, the label is not solely for entertainment industry majors. One can become a member of the label regardless of major.

Thronson wants students to be aware that the label has an impact on the Hub City music scene. The label focuses on local artists, so the hope is that through this the music scene in Hattiesburg and the surrounding areas will grow and prosper.

“Our Entertainment Industry program here at Southern Miss is second to none in the country,” Thronson said. “Our advisers and faculty members here are top-notch in their field and make every effort possible for students to succeed in whatever their quest or goals are. South City Records is a direct product of that and allows for a hands-on experience you can not get just anywhere.”

Those interested in getting involved with the label can attend South City Records meetings Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the gold conference room in the Student Activities Hub.