Getting discovered when your band is still in it’s garage phase is tough. Especially when you don’t have the space or resources to move on to the next step. There are many talented artists out there that have the skills to succeed but simply can’t get heard. Rip Records wants to bring that local talent into the spotlight.
Presenters at last week’s Hatching event, Rip Records is a student run recording studio and practice space that will also provide instruments, event coordination and booking assistance.
Founders:
Tanner Trombley
Walter Mansky
Where the Idea Came From:
When roommates Tanner and Walter realized they loved to record but weren’t going to be the next Red Hot Chili Peppers, they decided to do something a little different. They knew they had good taste, they also had a lot of space and a basement full of instruments. Since space is the biggest thing college musicians struggle with, they decided to provide it.
Problem Being Solved:
For student musicians, it’s often difficult to find space to make music and the right people to make it with. Recording is pricey, instruments are bulky and take up a lot of space in small living conditions and students don’t know where to look to find resources. Rip Records wants to provide cheaper recording and practice time, equipment, and the resources that will allow students to make music.
Exciting Opportunities:
Tanner says the fact they are in East Lansing, where there are no other recording companies, is an exciting opportunity. There is a huge market in the area and a lot of talented people that haven’t been noticed simply because of a lack of space and time.
Being in East Lansing and not having any other recording companies is very exciting. And the never ending market. and how easy it is around here to get the word out. If we can get our name out there we’ll have recordings in the first few weeks. A lot of people at MSU that haven’t been noticed because of the lack of space and time.
Biggest Challenge:
Though Tanner says some of their biggest challenges are yet to come, they have a faced a few. He knows that having a recording program will set them apart and make them asset, but it’s been a challenge to get their hands on one.
They are also facing the challenge of getting themselves out there and letting people know what they are all about. But, says Tanner, “It’s not an impossible task if we put in the ground work.”
Surprises from the Industry:
Tanner says he has been surprised to find that it’s such a huge industry and that there are a lot of talented people out there (in East Lansing) that simply need to take the first step.
Funding:
They currently have revenue coming in from a few clients utilizing their practice space. And while they didn’t win the Hatching, their next step is to approach the Hatch for additional funds.
The Future:
The next step for Rip Records is to get the word out about what they are doing and invite everyone to join them. They have plans to let a few groups record for free so that people can see what they can do, and then they will set up prices.
They will then work on getting bands gigs at local places and beyond, and then start hosting events. They would like to hold events, like a battle of the bands, that will get area musicians noticed.
Advice:
Tanner’s advice to other, young entrepreneurs is to just chase the dream. If you have an idea, pursue it. “The CEO of GoPro was in debt, with 2 failed businesses, so he went and did what he loved (surfing) and that spurred the idea of the camera.” He says to put your ideas out there and get opinions. “You’re wasting yourself if you don’t put it out there.”
