Sub Pop Records

Sub Pop is a Seattle-based record label founded on early releases by Nirvana, Mudhoney, Soundgarden, and TAD, artists closely tied to the grunge movement. The label has built a reputation for identifying and developing talent across multiple genres. Over its history, Sub Pop has released records from artists including Sunny Day Real Estate, The Shins, Iron and Wine, The Postal Service, Fleet Foxes, Sleater-Kinney, Beach House, and Father John Misty, among many others.

Sub Pop handles music licensing for film festivals and non-commercial projects. One-year worldwide festival sync licenses for Sub Pop artists cost $1500, split between publishing and master recording rights. The label also permits free use of downloadable tracks for non-commercial podcasts through their monthly digital sampler. Unsolicited demos are accepted via links sent to demos@subpop.com only, and artists are advised to build their presence through touring and live performances rather than relying on demo submissions alone.

Last updated: 2026-06-07