Giddy Up! Records Co-Founder George Dewey Joins Capsicum Records as COO; Will Also Direct Indie Label’s New Rock Division
George Dewey, who co-piloted Giddy Up! Records from a start-up through its lucrative distribution deal with SONY (Red), has agreed to join the executive staff of Capsicum Records LLC as its Chief Operating Officer, according to Capsicum label CEO and Director of A&R Roger Meltzer.
Dewey’s primary responsibilities at the Hartford, CT-based indie will include social network marketing, promotion, digital distribution, corporate sponsorships and tour operations. He will also direct a new rock division at the label which will initially feature new material from several up-and-coming bands.
"This move will generate immediate and multiple benefits to the Capsicum label, its artists and content,” said Meltzer, “George brings a wealth of music business financial and marketing experience to Capsicum which we can all draw upon, as well as a successful track record at startups, which will help us take Capsicum to the next level of growth.”
Dewey sees his specialty as “creating mutually beneficial partnerships that foster a good return for all invested parties”. He enjoyed a successful career at international pharmaceutical giant Pfizer, where he helped launch the well-known allergy product Zyrtec. In addition to his role as co-founder, Chief Financial Officer and Marketing Director at Giddy Up! Records, George is also the founder and owner of Dewey’s Pub, a bustling bar/café in Seymour CT where live music is regularly featured. Most recently he started a successful hot sauce company.
“I’ve been pursuing George to bring his experience and savvy to Capsicum since I first met him at his pub while attending a concert there last March sponsored by Red Stripe,” notes Meltzer.
“Finally getting George on staff at Capsicum will also free me to concentrate on what I do best - writing and producing records. This is critical right now, so we can keep pace with the increasing demand for our reggae-in-fusion-product, and address the backlog of talented artists who want to record with us,” Meltzer continued. “And I expect demand to accelerate even faster as George applies his expertise at internet marketing and promotion to maximize the visibility of our recording artists, our songs, and our label.”
“I understand the necessities of what it takes to flourish in a constantly changing music industry,” says Dewey. “The old business model is extinct. The entire paradigm of the industry is constantly evolving. Embracing technology, staying ahead of the curve, and keeping an open mind is essential to surviving in today’s market”
“I am ecstatic to be part of this vision with Roger; his passion and drive for marketable music is something both creative and contagious,” added Dewey. “I look forward to working with him to make Capsicum Records LLC and its parent company Capsicum Music LLC major forces in the music industry.”