Horst Weidenmüllerr, CEO and founder !K7 MusicReceived the prestigious IMPALA Outstanding Contribution Award for his influential work in the European independent music scene.
The award coincides with the 40th anniversary of !K7 Music, founded by Weidenmuller in 1985.
At IMPALA’s recent board meeting, the organization highlighted Weidenmuller’s nearly four-decade career and key role in advancing the independent music industry. !K7 Music began as a Berlin-based music video production company and has since grown into a diversified record label known for its groundbreaking DJ kick The series was launched in 1993 and its sub-labels include Strut Records, 7K! and Ever Records.
In addition to his record label success, Weidenmuller has been a strong advocate for sustainability and inclusivity in the music industry. As a long-time member of IMPALA’s Board of Directors and founder of its Sustainability Working Group, he spearheaded the development of label-customized carbon calculators in collaboration with Julie’s Bicycle, Merlin and Murmur. He also helped build IMPALA’s sustainability business case, emphasizing the economic benefits of environmentally friendly practices.
Under his leadership, !K7 Music has been certified as a B Corp, demonstrating its commitment to high standards of social and environmental responsibility. The company actively supports community initiatives, including a partnership with the Ernst-Reuter-Schule in Berlin, where students study music production, marketing and distribution.
“Horst was a force of nature who inspired all who worked with him,” said IMPALA Executive Chairman Helen Smith. “His work as Vice Chairman of IMPALA’s Board of Directors has set an early goal of four This goal was solidified when he established our Sustainability Working Group two years ago.”
Peter Quicke, Co-Chair of IMPALA’s Sustainability Working Group and Managing Director of Ninja Tune, added: “Horst doesn’t just talk about sustainability; he takes action. His pragmatic approach makes !K7 an example of how independent labels can lead by example.
Weidenmuller expressed his gratitude for the award, saying: “I am very touched to receive the award from IMPALA. K7’s culture and values are integrated into all my work, whether it is music, sustainability, inclusion or digital. .My mission at IMPALA is an extension of that mission and of ensuring our status as a certified B Corp. This is a journey we share and the independent sector emphasizes time and time again that we are leaders.
“This is something I’m very proud of. Thank you to all IMPALA board members!
