For those familiar with the UK music scene of the 1980s, the name Stevo may bring back memories of some of the most influential bands and artists of the era. As the founder of Some Bizzare Records, Stevo played a key role in shaping the sound of the time, discovering and nurturing new-wave and industrial music talent like Depeche Mode, Soft Cell, The The, Marc Almond, Cabaret Voltaire, Coil, and Einstürzende Neubauten among others. Yet despite his significant contributions, Stevo has largely remained out of the spotlight in recent years.
That is, until now. In a recent interview with The Guardian, Stevo spoke out about his experiences in the music industry and the challenges he faced in getting recognition for his work. The occasion for the interview was the release of his new biography, which charts his journey from an aspiring artist to a pioneering label head.
The delay in any kind of recognition, Stevo told The Guardian, is “outrageous”. He pointed out that while the artists he worked with went on to achieve great success, his own role in their careers was often overlooked. “People forget that without Some Bizzare Records, those bands would not have existed in the way that they did,” he said. “It was a very hands-on label. We did everything from designing the sleeves to producing the records.”
The interview also touched on Stevo’s own music career, which saw him release a number of solo records in the 1980s. Although he did not achieve the same level of success as some of his label’s other acts, Stevo’s music was highly regarded by critics and fans alike. He spoke candidly about the difficulties he faced as an artist, saying that he often felt “overlooked and undervalued”.
Despite the challenges, Stevo remains passionate about music and his role in shaping its history. He sees his new biography as a way to set the record straight and give credit where it is due. “I wanted to tell my story and show people that there is more to Some Bizzare Records than just the bands that we signed,” he said.
There are many notable achievements of Stevo and Some Bizzare during their heyday. One of which is the outstanding compilation, If You Can’t Please Yourself You Can’t Please Your Soul, which featured some of the most compelling industrial artists which were active in the 1980s, including Foetus, Cabaret Voltaire, Psychic TV, Test Dept., Coil, Einstürzende Neubauten among others.
The interview with The Guardian is the first that Stevo has given in 20 years, and it is clear that he has a lot to say. From his experiences in the music industry to his thoughts on the state of the world today, Stevo’s voice is one that is worth listening to. As the release of his biography brings his story to a new generation of music fans, it is time for Stevo to finally receive the recognition that he deserves.
While you’re here…
Discipline Mag is a labour of love. It’s a publication that comes from both creative ingenuity and pure passion. And importantly, it requires a phenomenal amount of work. From writing, delegating, editing, website building/maintenance, design, endless copy… not to mention the overheads for keeping the website alive and running.
If you see the value in content like this, and you want the underground to survive and prosper, then please consider becoming a member of the Discipline Mag Patreon.
Or alternatively, consider placing a donation to the publication via PayPal. No amount is too small, and every little bit helps!
If you are unable to contribute financially, please support this tireless work by FOLLOWING DISCIPLINE MAG ON SOCIAL MEDIA.
