!K7 Music CEO and founder Horst Weidenmüller has been named the winner of the IMPALA Outstanding Contribution Award.
IMPALA said it decided to honor Horst Weidemüller at its recent board meeting, recognizing his “pivotal role” in the European independent scene and his career spanning nearly 40 years.
Weidenmüller founded Germany-based !K7 Records in 1985.
!K7 is best known for its DJ-Kicks series, launched in 1993, which includes mixes by artists such as Carl Craig, Kruder & Dorfmeister and Peggy Gou.
Over the years, !K7 expanded to include multiple sub-labels such as Strut Records (specializing in funk, soul and world music), 7K! (for neoclassical versions) and Ever Records (for jazz).
IMPALA noted that under Weidenmüller’s leadership, !K7 Music “has been highly recognized for its commitment to sustainability and ethical practices.”
!K7 is certified as a B Corp, a designation given to businesses that meet high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability.
In addition to its sustainability efforts, !K7 Music also “actively supports social inclusion” through its community initiatives, according to IMPALA. One noteworthy project is the collaboration with Ernst-Reuter-Schule in Berlin.
Through this partnership, !K7 staff work with local students to teach music production, marketing and distribution, which, according to IMPALA, “enables students, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, to create and publish their own music.”
In addition to his label work, Weidemüller has made significant contributions to the wider independent music scene, including serving as a board member of IMPALA since 2003 (Vice President until 2011) and a board member of Merlin, advocating for independent music rights, Sustainability and inclusion.
Weidenmüller served as founder and chair of IMPALA’s Sustainability Working Group, which launched what it said was the industry’s first industry-wide initiative, including the first label-customized carbon calculator and Julie’s Bicycle.
The calculator was originally crowdfunded by a group of IMPALA members and is now backed by Merlin and Murmur.
Weidenmuller was also instrumental in building IMPALA’s sustainability business case, which the organization says “underscores the business benefits of taking sustainability action”.
“Horst was a force of nature and an inspiration to all who worked with him, and we are honored to recognize all of his work with !K7 as a leading brand.”
Helen Smith, Impala
IMPALA Executive Chairman Helen Smith commented: “Horst is a force of nature and an inspiration to all who work with him and we are honored to recognize all of his work with !K7 as a leading brand.
“Their catalog is dazzling, including to me personally. Horst’s work as Vice Chairman of IMPALA’s Board of Directors has already set an early mark, one that gained traction when he established our Sustainability Working Group four years ago. consolidated.
“Horst doesn’t just talk about sustainability; he talks about sustainability. He takes action.
Peter Quick “Ninja Tunes”
Peter Quicke of Ninja Tune, co-chair of IMPALA’s Sustainability Working Group, added: “Horst doesn’t just talk about sustainability; he takes action. His pragmatic approach makes !K7 an example of how independent brands can lead by example – quickly translating their values into for impactful practice.
“I am very touched to receive the IMPALA award.”
Horst Weidenmuller
Horst Weidenmüller, CEO and founder of !K7 Music and founder and chairman of the IMPALA Sustainability Working Group, said: “I am very touched to receive the IMPALA award. !K7’s culture and values are integrated into all my work, whether it is music, sustainability or sustainability. sustainable development, inclusiveness or digital areas.
“My mission at IMPALA is an extension of that mission and ensuring our status as a certified B Corporation.
“This is our journey together, and time and time again the independent sector emphasizes that we are leaders. This is something I am extremely proud of. Thank you to all IMPALA Board Members!
“Horst holds the key to solving some of today’s most important challenges.”
Carla Rogozar, Impala
Karla Rogožar, Head of Sustainability at IMPALA, said: “Horst is key to addressing some of today’s most important challenges. As a responsible company, !K7 is one step ahead and also helps IMPALA position itself as a leader and our members gain provide them with the support they need to future-proof their business.global music business
