Black Noise Records: A Community Built on Music and Friendship

By Chloe Anne

When you can count on your friends, and they can count on you, the impossible becomes possible. That’s exactly what’s happening at Black Noise Records, a record label and store in Bellingham, Washington, built from the ground up by a young artist with a dream—and a team that believed in it.

At the heart of Black Noise Records is Nico, also known as OG Neeks, a producer who not only creates his own beats but also works with other artists to bring their music to life. When he moved from Issaquah to Bellingham, he had little more than a vision, but with the support of his friends, that vision became a reality.

His circle is filled with talented artists who all bring something unique to the table. Among them is Cash Mclane, a rapper with a name straight out of a Western; CHRVNS, also known as Chris Evans—though instead of fighting villains as an Avenger, he’s making waves in the rap scene; Cass, aka Slap Serif, a producer and graphic designer; BLKSKNN, a rapper who played his only live show of the year before shifting his focus to recording; Idesim, another producer; Esto, a rapper; The Rhetorican, another rapper; and Scott, a photographer who helps capture the essence of the movement through his lens. Together, they form a collective that thrives on collaboration and creativity, with a strong focus on uplifting Black artists.

Their bond is what made the creation of their album, Sudden Valley Drive, possible. In just 72 hours, the team locked themselves in a house in Sudden Valley, completely immersing themselves in music. “We woke up, ate breakfast together, kayaked, and just made music for three days, switching rooms to keep the flow going,” CHRVNS shared. That energy, that commitment to artistry, is what defines Black Noise Records.

On March 22, they celebrated the release of their vinyl with a show at Black Noise Records, located at 1230 Bay Street in Bellingham. The event was more than just a performance—it was part of a larger art show at Geheim Gallery. Artists like Snnoworld, YOGIRLCALLMESPENPAI, and NEFFY3600 took the stage, hyping up the crowd with electric performances.

When it was time for Black Noise Records to perform, the room shifted. After a short break, they launched into Sudden Valley Drive, and the energy was undeniable. Fans moved in closer, rapping along, turning the performance into an intimate and powerful moment.

Black Noise Records is more than a label or a store—it’s a movement. It’s a testament to what can happen when artists support each other, when creativity is nurtured, and when a dream is backed by a team that believes in it. And for Nico and his crew, this is just the beginning.

You can follow Black Noise Records and its artists on Instagram and all major music platforms to stay updated on their latest releases and events.

Article by Chloe Anne, Bellingham Metro News Volunteer News Reporter.