Veteran record label executive Gina Tucci has launched a new independent dance label, 146 Records. Today’s launch happens in conjunction with the label’s first release, “Sunrise,” by rising Swedish producer Discrete.
146 Records is based in New York City and currently has a team of four. Distribution is being handled by Virgin Music Group, where, Tucci says, “we benefit from their extensive industry expertise, global reach and robust distribution capabilities to effectively launch and scale our artists’ music.”
“For years, I’ve envisioned an electronic dance music label that nurtures artists with a song-first approach, prioritizing the music above all else,” she continues. “At 146, we provide artists the necessary time, resources and attention to produce their best work. My goal is to discover and develop the next generation of dance music talent, crafting the kind of hits that become classics, hits that resonate decades from now. I want 146 to feel like a creative home — a place artists can experiment, collaborate closely with me and our team, and leverage cutting-edge technology. The goal is to build enduring music catalogs that sustain lifelong careers.”
Prior to founding 146, Tucci was the longtime head of Atlantic Records’ dance imprint Big Beat Records, the label founded by Atlantic Records CEO Craig Kallman in 1986. Here, Tucci helped lead the label’s 2010 relaunch and over the next 14 years broke acts including Skrillex, Clean Bandit, Icona Pop and Joel Corry, bringing dance music to new levels of visibility in tandem with the genre’s early 2010’s explosion in America. In the role she also led A&R creative for Galantis, Martin Solveig, Cash Cash, The Knocks, 100 gecs, Tiësto and more. Tucci has appeared on myriad Billboard Dance Power lists through the years.
“I bring to 146 the rigorous standards and global perspective I developed running Big Beat at Atlantic Records under Craig Kallman for over a decade,” Tucci says. “At Big Beat, I learned firsthand the intricacies of successfully launching and breaking dance records globally, recognizing that each rollout requires a uniquely tailored strategy. Dance music has always thrived on global connectivity, and I’m adept at leveraging data-driven insights to map out precise, effective release strategies that connect deeply with audiences worldwide.”
Today’s release from Discrete begins a weekly release schedule where, says Tucci, “we’re diving headfirst into exploring the new sound designs and grooves, but the art of great melodies will always remain paramount.” Discrete’s upcoming tour dates include May shows at Elsewhere in New York City and EDC Las Vegas.
“A lot of today’s tracks flash moments of brilliance but don’t fully ignite,” Tucci continues. “At 146, we’re closing that gap. We’re committed to sweating every detail, inspiring our artists to leave no creative stone unturned. It’s about elevating dance music from disposable moments into timeless anthems.”
