# Tattoo Records

> American record label; 1970's soul/funk label

**Wikidata**: [Q102418503](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q102418503)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/tattoo-records

## Summary
Tattoo Records is an American record label that was active in the 1970s, specializing in soul and funk music. Founded in 1976, it operated within the phonographic industry, contributing to the marketing and distribution of music recordings from the United States.

## Key Facts
- **Name:** Tattoo Records
- **Country of Origin:** United States
- **Inception Year:** 1976
- **Primary Genre Focus:** Soul/Funk
- **Period of Activity:** 1970s
- **Classification:** Record label
- **Database Identifiers:**
    - Discogs Label ID: 70144 (listed as "Tattoo Records (2)")
    - Rate Your Music Label ID: tattoo_records_f1 (listed as "Tattoo Records")
- **Distinction:** Explicitly noted as "different from" other entities named "Tattoo" due to shared brand, trademark, band name, or organization name.

## FAQs
- **What is Tattoo Records?**
  Tattoo Records is an American record label established in 1976, known for releasing soul and funk music during the 1970s. It functioned as a brand within the broader phonographic industry.

- **When was Tattoo Records founded?**
  Tattoo Records was founded in 1976, as indicated by its inception data. Its activities were primarily concentrated in the decade of the 1970s.

- **What type of music did Tattoo Records specialize in?**
  Tattoo Records specialized in soul and funk music. This genre focus was a defining characteristic of the label during its operational period in the 1970s.

- **Where was Tattoo Records based?**
  Tattoo Records was based in the United States. The country of origin is a key identifier for the label, placing it within the American music industry landscape.

- **How is Tattoo Records identified in music databases?**
  Tattoo Records is identified with a Discogs Label ID of 70144, often appearing as "Tattoo Records (2)," and a Rate Your Music Label ID of tattoo_records_f1, listed as "Tattoo Records." These identifiers help distinguish it in digital music archives.

## Why It Matters
Tattoo Records matters as an example of a specialized record label contributing to the vibrant American music scene of the 1970s, particularly within the soul and funk genres. As a record label, it played a role in the marketing and distribution of music recordings, which is foundational to the phonographic industry. Its existence highlights the diverse ecosystem of labels that supported specific musical styles and artists during a culturally significant decade for music. By operating in the United States, a global superpower and a major hub for cultural export, Tattoo Records was part of a larger industry that shaped global music trends and supported artistic careers. Its documentation in music databases ensures its legacy as a contributor to the historical record of American soul and funk.

## Notable For
- **Genre Specialization:** Focused on soul and funk music, contributing to the distinct soundscapes of the 1970s.
- **American Origin:** Operated from the United States, a key country in the global music industry.
- **Specific Inception:** Established in 1976, marking its presence within a defined historical period.
- **Database Recognition:** Cataloged in prominent music databases like Discogs and Rate Your Music, providing verifiable identifiers.
- **Distinct Identity:** Acknowledged as distinct from other entities sharing the "Tattoo" name, emphasizing its unique brand within the music industry.

## Body

### Overview and Classification
Tattoo Records is an American record label that emerged in the 1970s, specifically founded in 1976. It was primarily known for its focus on soul and funk music, contributing to these genres during a significant period of their development. As a "record label," Tattoo Records falls under a broad classification within the phonographic industry, which encompasses brands and trademarks associated with the marketing of music recordings and music videos.

### Industry Role and Context
Operating as a record label, Tattoo Records functioned as a commercial name and imprint, playing a role in the production, distribution, and promotion of music content. Record labels are integral to the phonographic industry, which is responsible for the commercialization and dissemination of music. While a record label is the brand identity, it operates under a record company, which handles the operational aspects. Tattoo Records, as an American label, was part of the United States' vast and influential music industry, which has historically been a global leader in cultural export and musical innovation.

### Geographic Origin
Tattoo Records originated in the United States, a country recognized as a global superpower and a major force in the music industry. The United States, with its diverse cultural landscape and robust economic infrastructure, provides a significant environment for the development and proliferation of record labels. Its role as a hub for music production and distribution means that labels like Tattoo Records contributed to the nation's cultural output and its impact on global music trends.

### Musical Focus and Period
The label's specialization in soul and funk music places it within a vibrant and influential musical movement of the 1970s. This decade was characterized by the evolution of these genres, with artists pushing boundaries in rhythm, melody, and lyrical themes. Tattoo Records' releases would have contributed to the sound and cultural impact of soul and funk during this era.

### Identifiers and Distinctions
Tattoo Records is documented across various music databases, ensuring its historical record and facilitating its identification. It holds a Discogs Label ID of 70144, where it is specifically listed as "Tattoo Records (2)," indicating a potential disambiguation from other entities. Additionally, it is identified in Rate Your Music with the label ID tattoo_records_f1, appearing as "Tattoo Records." The entity is explicitly noted as "different from" other entities named "Tattoo," a distinction made due to the existence of multiple brands, trademarks, band names, or organization names that share this moniker. This highlights the importance of precise identification within comprehensive music databases.

## References

1. Rate Your Music
2. Discogs