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Launched in 1985 from a humble vinyl pressing plant on Chicago’s west side by Larry Sherman, Trax Records wasn’t built to be part of the music industry machine—it was built to defy it. Born of rebellion, raw creativity, and a relentless underground pulse, Trax carved out the DNA of house music and remains a beacon of independence four decades later. At the heart of it all is Screamin’ Rachael, the trailblazing artist and label head who has carried the legacy forward with uncompromising vision and revolutionary spirit.

To commemorate its 40th anniversary, Trax is releasing Trax Records: The 40th Anniversary Collection, a definitive, multi-format showcase of the label’s iconic catalog and future vision. Rolling out digitally and via limited-edition vinyl drops starting June 20, the compilation was curated by artist-provocateur Jorge and features a powerful lineup bridging past legends and next-generation innovators. From anthems like “Move Your Body” and “Your Love” to modern reimaginings and experimental cuts, the project is a deep dive into the evolution of house music—starring pioneers like Frankie Knuckles, Marshall Jefferson, Phuture, Ron Hardy, and Paul Johnson, alongside boundary-pushers like Hiroko Yamamura, Analog 87, and Jorge himself.

“We don’t follow the formula of looking at follower counts. We care about music. That’s why Trax still means something,” says Rachael, whose punk roots and early house experiments helped shape the genre from the very start. She broke ground with vocal-driven tracks near Frankie Knuckles’ Warehouse, helped birth Hip House alongside Afrika Bambaataa, and brought the Chicago sound to New York’s Club Kid scene with the likes of Larry Levan and DJ Keoki.

Each vinyl drop in the anniversary series will be pressed by Desslab in ultra-limited runs of 150 copies, with bespoke artwork that captures the label’s defiant spirit. These aren’t just records—they’re artifacts of a cultural revolution. To launch the celebration, Trax is hosting an in-store event on June 20 at Reckless Records (33 S Wabash, Chicago), featuring performances from Joe Smooth, Ron Carroll, Screamin’ Rachael, and emerging artists like LaZara and Chillsesh. A special DJ set from Jorge will guide the crowd through four decades of house evolution.

Complementing the anniversary compilation is Rising Again (TRX2620), a limited-run vinyl project spotlighting intergenerational collaboration and sonic experimentation. Produced by Pi Rho and pressed in 500 copies, the release features contributions from Screamin’ Rachael, Joe Smooth, Jacques x Gregory, Spada, Kushgad, and DJ ThadX. Fusing vintage techniques with modern tech—including brainwave-generated soundscapes—all proceeds will benefit SocialWorks, the nonprofit founded by Chance the Rapper. Where the compilation defines the legacy, Rising Again expands its cultural resonance with a blend of music, technology, and philanthropy.

Also debuting this summer is Trax’s first fashion line, designed by Mario Maldonado and distributed via Desslab, Juno, HHV, and deejay.de. Drawing from the label’s archival iconography and revolutionary ethos, the collection transforms house music history into bold, wearable statements. “We’re not a bottle-service brand. We came from basements and bedrooms—and that’s where the revolution started,” says Rachael.

Beyond the music and fashion, Screamin’ Rachael continues to evolve the label through mentorship, touring, and community engagement, particularly with emerging talent in Chicago and Nashville. Her advocacy for LGBTQ media, youth development, and the arts underscores the label’s unyielding dedication to amplifying voices from the margins.

Four decades later, Trax Records is still jackin’. Still breaking boundaries. Still doing it their way. And as Rachael reminds us, “This label is my life—and I’m not done.”

Trax Records Celebrates 40 Years of House Music Revolution With Landmark Compilation and Cultural Tribute

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