In a major shakeup for the punk rock landscape, Fat Wreck Chords—an institution synonymous with independent punk for over 35 years—has sold a significant portion of its operations to Hopeless Records. The deal includes the back catalogue and label functions, marking a pivotal transition while preserving the spirit and integrity of the Fat Wreck legacy.
Co-founders Erin Burkett and Fat Mike (NOFX) will retain the Fat Wreck Chords trademarks and continue overseeing events, festival appearances, and possible future projects under the Fat banner. The sale is underscored by an artist-first approach: all outstanding band debts have been forgiven, a move that cost Burkett and Fat Mike $3.5 million—an unprecedented show of loyalty and respect within the music industry.
Hopeless Records, known for launching modern emo and punk rock acts, brings a more eclectic catalog but shares early ties to Fat—its founder Louis Posen began his career filming Lagwagon and Propagandhi. He now assumes responsibility for a label built on community, authenticity, and DIY values.
Despite the shift, Hopeless has vowed to maintain the visual and sonic identity of Fat. There will be no new signings, and current Fat artists like Bad Cop/Bad Cop and NOFX will continue releasing material under the iconic logo—minus the Hopeless imprint. While Fat Wreck’s core business changes hands, its soul remains intact.
As punk rock continues to evolve, the collaboration between Fat Wreck Chords and Hopeless Records signals a future rooted in respect, legacy, and a relentless DIY ethos—everything the genre has stood for since day one.
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