Edmonton’s own BudgieMint is forging new frontiers in the world of electronic music with his label, XZ1 Recordings.
Founded in 2024, XZ1 provides a safe space for artists to explore uncharted sonic territories, blending unfiltered creativity with personalized support. Known for his experimental, genre-bending compositions, BudgieMint’s work pulses with innovation, inviting listeners to explore introspective soundscapes. With his 8th studio album Focus set to drop in June 2025, we caught up with him to discuss his label’s cutting-edge approach to music.
How did you get into music originally?
I’ve always been interested in music throughout my life and I started producing and releasing music in 2021. In 2024 I founded my music distribution service (now shut down) called Fusion Audio Distribution. And then later in July, I opened up XZ1 Recordings and I’ve been at it since.
Tell us about your first release.
Excluding my own releases under my label, XZ1’s first release was Burnout by Nx4x. I think this one’s special because at the time it perfectly defined my vision for my record label.
Tell us about the latest record you’ve released.
The latest record on XZ1 Recordings (including my own releases) would be Songs from the Cold North by BudgieMint. I made the album based around synthy ambient electronic vibes, and I feel I executed my idea really well. I have my eighth studio album under XZ1 releasing in June.
Check out BudgieMint on Spotify.
Could you sum up your label’s philosophy and creative vision?
My label’s vision is to provide a full collection of personalized support and services to emerging and established artists.
What advice would you give to anyone thinking of setting up their own imprint?
Anyone can start a label, even if you don’t have money! XZ1 was founded with $0 dollars and look how we’re doing today. Anything is possible if you put your best effort into it. The way you get your label out there is your key to success.
What are your plans for the rest of the year and beyond?
XZ1 plans to keep signing artists and releasing music, we also plan to keep on increasing the amount of services we offer, so our artists can get all the benefits of a major.
What have you enjoyed about working with MN2S?
The team at MN2S Label Services has been incredibly helpful and they’ve been really quick and responsive to help me out. I also really like the services they offer and their commitment to helping my label become successful!