US
Epic Records was launched in 1953 by CBS for the purpose of
marketing jazz and classical music that did not fit the theme
of the more mainstream Columbia Records.
Its bright-yellow, black and blue logo became a familiar trademark
for many jazz and classical releases. By 1960, the label's
musical base had been expanded to include all genres. This
was done in part to prevent the roster of Columbia Records
from being overstuffed with newer artists. Subsequently, Epic
became better known for its signing of newer, fledgling acts.
By the end of the 1960s, Epic earned its first gold records
and had evolved into a formidable hit-making force in rock
and roll, R&B and country music. |