House Music Royalty: The Story of King Street Sounds is a film that traces the label’s rich legacy and new chapter under Armada Music’s leadership.
If you’re a house music fan, you’ve likely heard of King Street Sounds and even danced to many of its iconic tracks. The legendary imprint has been a cornerstone of the house music scene, delivering some of the most memorable releases and influencing many generations of artists worldwide. Now, they are taking center stage in the brand-new documentary House Music Royalty: The Story of King Street Sound, produced by Armada Music and Beatport.
We are so excited to unveil this special documentary that we hope resonates with longtime fans, and introduces new audiences to King Street Sounds’ huge influence. At this pivotal time for the label, it felt crucial to reflect on the label’s journey and tell its story, and we couldn’t have found a better partner than Beatport to bring this vision to life.”
Maykel Piron, CEO of Armada Music and BEAT Music Fund
The 35-minute documentary shows King Street Sounds’ storied legacy and its instrumental role in shaping the underground dance scene through exclusive behind-the-scenes footage, artists’ studio sessions, and feature interviews with pioneer members. In addition, the film featured legendary artists like Barbara Tucker, David Morales, Ultra Naté, and more, who each discussed their personal experiences with the label. Other icons like Kasango and House Gospel Choir’s Natalie Maddix also made special appearances to share the cultural significance of the label in the evolution of house music.
Our aim is to share a more complete history—one that celebrates not only the label but also the spirit and cultural roots of house music itself. At Beatport, we’re committed to preserving these cultural legacies while also connecting them to the future of the genre. With our global platform, we’re helping bring this documentary to life by ensuring King Street’s influence continues to inspire and resonate with viewers around the world.
David Browne, Head of Live at The Beatport Group
Founded by Hisa Ishioka in 1993, King Street Sounds began its journey at Paradise Garage in New York City, one of the city’s hotspots for its vibrant music and nightlife. Following its acquisition by Armada Music’s BEAT Music Fund in 2023, the label ushered in a new era with revamped branding, a slate of new releases, and fresh collaborations. Under the guidance of a revitalized team, King Street Sounds is entering a dynamic growth phase. By preserving its rich heritage while focusing on education and entertainment, the label is poised to engage new and dedicated fans alike.
You can watch the full documentary on YouTube and follow King Street Sounds to stay updated on the label’s latest news.