20 Dec Celebrating 25 Years of Music Excellence at Hidden Beach Recordings
Celebrating 25 Years of Music Excellence at Hidden Beach Recordings
As we approach 2025, Hidden Beach Recordings proudly celebrates 25 years of releasing some of the most impactful and soulful music in the industry. While Hidden Beach was initially founded in 1998 by visionary Steve McKeever, it was in the year 2000 that we began to share our music with the world. This milestone marks 25 years of sharing timeless music that resonates with audiences across the globe, and it is a celebration of an incredible journey—one rooted in passion, creativity, and unwavering commitment to artistic freedom.
Hidden Beach was born from McKeever’s desire to create a label where artists could express themselves without the restrictions that often accompany major record labels. McKeever, a former Motown executive, had a long history of working with legendary artists like Stevie Wonder and Diana Ross, which gave him the insight to recognize the importance of creative freedom. When McKeever shared his vision with basketball legend Michael Jordan, Jordan saw the potential and decided to become the first investor, helping to set the stage for what would become one of the most influential independent labels in the industry.
From the very beginning, Hidden Beach has been about more than just music—it has been about creating experiences. McKeever believed in making music that not only sounds good but also does good in the world. This mission led to the release of albums that became cultural touchstones, such as Jill Scott’s Who Is Jill Scott? Words and Sounds Vol. 1, which received multiple Grammy nominations and went 2x platinum. As McKeever himself reflected, Hidden Beach is a true American success story, an “impossible dream” that was made possible through the support of dedicated artists, investors, and fans.
Over the past 25 years, Hidden Beach has worked with a stellar lineup of artists including Jill Scott, Kindred The Family Soul, Naturally 7, BeBe Winans, Gene Noble, Phat Yaki, Angie Fisher, and Mike Phillips. These collaborations, along with partnerships with legends like Stevie Wonder, Darius Rucker, and Al B. Sure, have cemented the label’s reputation for soulful, meaningful music that touches the hearts of listeners. In addition, Hidden Beach has been a part of some of the most iconic moments in recent history, such as producing the Yes We Can and Change Is Now albums tied to Barack Obama’s presidential campaigns, further demonstrating the label’s dedication to music that resonates on both a personal and social level.
As we look back on two and a half decades, we remember the risks and rewards that came with building Hidden Beach into the label it is today. From Jill Scott’s groundbreaking debut to the critically acclaimed Unwrapped series, which reimagines hip-hop hits through the lens of jazz and soul, we’ve consistently pushed the boundaries of music. McKeever’s approach to business—centered around trust, artistic integrity, and innovation—allowed Hidden Beach to create a unique space where artists could thrive without compromise.
As we celebrate 25 years of releasing music, we’ll be sharing exclusive anniversary content, behind-the-scenes stories, and re-releases of our most beloved work. We’re also preparing to honor our founder, Steve McKeever, whose vision and leadership made this all possible. His belief in the power of music to inspire change and create connection remains the driving force behind everything we do. McKeever’s partnership with Michael Jordan in the early days was just the beginning of a journey that has touched the lives of millions around the world. Together, they laid the foundation for a label that has become synonymous with quality, creativity, and soul.
Stay connected with us throughout this milestone year as we reflect on a quarter-century of making music that truly matters. We can’t wait to share the many exciting things that are yet to come as we look ahead to the next 25 years of Hidden Beach Recordings.
