by Scott Roos
award graphic by Brian Snell
Beefy Records, a vibrant and innovative force behind Saskatoon’s local music scene, has earned the coveted NSMZ 2024 Industry Mover and Shaker Award. This recognition highlights the dynamic contributions of Beefy Records—founded by Swade Orchard and Myk Ulan-Hohol, with invaluable support from their network of local friends and collaborators.
Beefy Records has become synonymous with grassroots efforts to amplify local talent, booking and organizing shows for both homegrown and touring musicians. Their work goes beyond just providing a stage for music, as they also offer video and graphic design services, helping bands gain visibility and build their brands. This commitment to the arts and the local community is one of the key reasons behind their recognition.
However, what truly sets Beefy Records apart is their dedication to social good. Through various initiatives, they’ve leveraged their platform to support several important causes. Throughout the fall, Beefy Records partnered with Right to Skate in hopes of helping young skaters and artists thrive. The goal was to raise funds to support the reopening of an indoor skatepark, a vital space where young people could practice skateboarding, develop confidence, and experience a sense of belonging. This space would also serve as a more accessible venue for all-ages shows, expanding opportunities for youth to engage with the local arts community.
With support from musicians, skaters, promoters, photographers, show-goers, volunteers, and generous community sponsors, Beefy Records raised a total of $4551.31—an incredible collective effort! While this amount wasn’t enough to immediately reopen the space, the fundraiser series successfully connected people from different backgrounds, creating new opportunities for artists of various genres to perform for fresh audiences, while also supporting a vital community organization. Right to Skate is an international hub for skaters, providing a space for individuals from all over the world to come together, and Beefy Records plans to continue championing these kinds of collaborative efforts moving forward.
Orchard and Ulan-Hohol approach these social initiatives with a deep awareness of broader societal issues. They understand that supporting organizations like Right to Skate is crucial, but that systemic challenges require long-term solutions. Through their efforts, Beefy Records addresses issues like loneliness, lack of physical activity, and the absence of positive role models—problems that disproportionately affect youth. The team believes that even small contributions can spark a ripple effect, leading to transformative change over time.
Looking ahead to 2025, Beefy Records is poised to make even greater strides. Their plans include hosting bigger shows, particularly for the all-ages crowd, and expanding their reach to discover and promote more local talent. In addition to continuing their work of uniting Saskatoon’s music scene, Beefy Records hopes to release physical albums of bands they believe in, book tours, and further cultivate a spirit of community. Swade and Myk are committed to breaking down cliques that can divide the music scene and fostering an environment of inclusivity, creativity, and collaboration.
Beefy Records’ award win is a testament to the power of community-driven music and the lasting impact that a few dedicated individuals can have. While the fundraising efforts for Right to Skate continue, Beefy Records remains committed to creating lasting change in the lives of young people and supporting community initiatives. As they look to the future, they are inspired by the example set by Right to Skate, continuing to push for a world where everyone has a chance to pursue what they love.
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