Axel Luenebach, Michael Weicker and Pete Gooding are launching Sick Leave Records, a new independent electronic music label rooted in club culture and built around artist development.
Sick Leave wants to help artists develop their sound and identity, build lasting careers and reach new audiences. The label brings together experience in club culture, artist management and the international music business to explore crossover opportunities and take music beyond the dancefloor.
Axel Luenebach brings more than 20 years in the global music industry, including senior international marketing roles at Warner Music Central Europe, most recently as Director Marketing International Export. His experience spans artist development, global release campaigns and strategic partnerships, helping artists and music businesses grow internationally. Across his career he has worked with recognised names including Alok, Bruno Mars, Burna Boy, Cardi B, Ed Sheeran, HUGEL, Joel Corry, Lizzo, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, Major Lazer, Marten Lou, Rita Ora, Robin Schulz, Sam Feldt and Tiësto.
Michael Weicker is CEO of Metropole Group and a founder of HYTE, the international electronic music event brand. He has helped build the careers of Loco Dice, Tale of Us, Pan-Pot and Shimza, among others. Metropole’s extensive international DJ roster gives the label a direct line to dancefloors worldwide, helping the team spot records and emerging sounds that connect with crowds, often before the data catches up.
Pete Gooding brings 30 years as a DJ, producer, A&R and artist manager. He spent a decade at Café Mambo and has been Musical Director of Hostal La Torre since 2015. His catalogue spans over 150 releases, and he helped create pointblank Music School’s Artist Development course.
Together, the partners want to give artists creative freedom and the support to build an international audience.
Sick Leave Records. A different kind of day off.
