Trax Records Returns to Vinyl: A Decade Later, What’s the Real Story?

In the shadowy corners of Chicago’s underground, where vinyl grooves whisper secrets of a bygone era, Trax Records has resurfaced. A decade of silence shattered by the release of Rising Again, a six-track compilation featuring artists like Joe Smooth and Screamin’ Rachael. But what does this revival truly signify?

The Ghosts of Trax

Founded in 1984, Trax Records was the birthplace of house music, giving rise to legends such as Frankie Knuckles and Marshall Jefferson. Yet, beneath its musical legacy lies a tale of exploitation and controversy. Artists like Marshall Jefferson have publicly accused the label of withholding royalties and manipulating contracts to their disadvantage . These shadows have long haunted the label’s storied past.

A Calculated Return?

With Rising Again, Trax Records claims to honor its roots and support the next generation of artists. But is this a genuine revival or a strategic move to capitalize on nostalgia and reclaim lost prestige? The involvement of Pi Rho as executive producer and the selection of artists like Joe Smooth and Screamin’ Rachael suggest a deliberate effort to bridge the past and present .

The Price of Legacy

All proceeds from Rising Again are pledged to SocialWorks, Chance the Rapper’s youth empowerment initiative. While this philanthropic gesture is commendable, it raises questions: Is this a sincere effort to give back, or a calculated move to polish the label’s tarnished image?

Echoes of the Past

As Trax Records steps back into the spotlight, the question remains: Can a legacy built on controversy and exploitation truly be redeemed? Or is this revival merely a veneer over a history that refuses to be forgotten? In the world of music, as in life, some ghosts never fade.