At London’s Sanctum Hotel in Soho on June 19th, Perfecto: How Dance Music Changed the World was screened in a small audience. Celebrating 35 years of one of electronic music’s most famous imprints, a landmark new documentary featured industry leaders gathered with media and the Perfecto family for a special evening where we also interviewed label boss Paul Oakenfold.
Premiering recently as part of the first Cine International Film Festival, the movie documents the rise and cultural influence of Paul Oakenfold’s trailblazing Perfecto Records a label that helped define the very DNA of worldwide club culture rather than just shaped the music of a generation. Beginning as a small dance label, we expanded along with dance music. With almost 10 million copies sold, we are still an indie label. Perfecto will grow with the scene, providing a home for any artist worldwide, and it’s a scene we have seen evolve and expand.
Since its founding in 1989, Perfecto has grown to be a globally acclaimed brand with events, streetwear, a worldwide syndicated radio program, and of course a much loved record label that over the last 35 years has released music from the likes of David Guetta, Tisto, Carl Cox, Marc Almond, Pharrell Williams, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Ice Cube, Nelly Furtado, Grace, and many more, but Oakenfold feels one particular Grace track perfectly captures Perfecto. Given the title, “Not Over Yet” with Grace is the only choice. Its not over yet! That was among our most popular song.
Events as well as the music Perfecto has added to the electronic scene. Outstanding moments, I’d say – the first Perfecto University tour. Mount Everest is up there. Stonehenge too.” As Paul reflects, he also expresses where he would love to take the sound next. “Antarctica, to bring attention to a very serious situation: global warming“.
Where, then, will Perfecto be in the following 35 years? Perfecto has also adjusted as the business expands and evolves while remaining true to its original sound. Its a sight we’ve seen evolve and grow, and Perfecto will grow along with it and offer a home for any artist anywhere.
Later this year, you may stream the full documentary Perfecto: How Dance Music Changed the World.
