Music studio owner adds record label, general contracting to portfolio

Entrepreneur Derek Snowden says he is motivated by Springfield’s potential.

While you can’t put a label on Derek Snowden, you can get one out of him.

The owner of Springfield’s Empire Studio co-founded a record label, Empire Records, in 2016. It was one of numerous projects including steady work as a general contractor, helping improve Holiday in the City, and increasing entrepreneurial and mentoring efforts.

Motivated by Springfield and its residents, the New Year will see Snowden busy as ever and he wouldn’t have it any other way.

“Springfield has all the potential in the world. I have a love for the people and a heart for this city and want to make an impact,” said Snowden.

Snowden spent years with Small Town Sleeper, the Urbana rock band that had success and toured with national artists including Daughtry.

His experiences translated into opening Empire Studio four years ago on the lower level at Commerce Point downtown. From working with bands, solo artists, choirs, educational activities, commercial jingles and podcasts, it’s a thriving venture.

Snowden has hired three people including a chief engineer, Nate McDonough, who previously fronted his own band. While this could occupy his time, Snowden is about several things.

Empire Records, which Snowden co-owns with Justin Staten, was recognized by the Ohio Senate on its formation, and is working with its first artist, indie folk singer/songwriter Cory Breth. Springfield experienced Breth’s talent during the 2016 Holiday in the City.

“He’s got something big, this iconic sound,” Snowden said. “The only way people wouldn’t like Cory is if they don’t like his music.“

Snowden wants to help steer his artists from the harsh realities of the music business he and his band mates experienced. He’s always on the lookout for other artists but will be very selective, as well as looking for investors.

“I’ve done everything but not be a label. I didn’t want to be a part of the machine,” said Snowden.

Snowden’s other passion is his contracting work. His handiwork can be seen several places downtown, including at the new Hatch Artist Studios and worked for the Turner Foundation and others.

In 2017 he’ll be working on a new store in Columbus, Iron & Elm, at Easton Town Center.

“I’ve arrived as a general contractor,” he said, smiling.

Snowden is proud to be a part of Springfield, having moved here to the south side at age 9 and graduated from Kenton Ridge High School and Springfield Clark Career Training Center.

He’s excited to do projects such as helping revitalize Holiday in the City. When the Springfield Chamber of Commerce’s Convention and Visitors Bureau took it over, they turned to Snowden for fresh ideas.

He brought in new lighting and sound, secured a professional stage and several of the artists who performed live to an enthusiastic audience, including reuniting with Small Town Sleeper.

After the fireworks Snowden continued the music with a deejay set and was thrilled with the reception. He hopes there are more opportunities like this in the future.

“I saw people of all ages out there and how they reacted. I’d love to keep pushing out the positive vibes,” he said.

While his success grows, Snowden is glad to give back. He employs Wittenberg University students as interns. He was also glad to recently talk with a group of kids from Champion City Scholars, sharing with them if you have a drive and work ethic you can accomplish things here.

“It boils down to opportunity. Some people like bigger cities but this downtown is affordable. Young people are seeing we have things here we can enjoy. It will continue to grow and shows there’s a demand.

“I’m super thankful for what I have and want to inspire.”

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