Kentone

Kentone Records was founded in 1949 by musician and entrepreneur William "Bill" McCulloch in Los Angeles, California. Initially focused on jazz and rhythm and blues, the label gained prominence in the 1950s and 1960s, releasing recordings that captured the vibrant sounds of the era. Notable artists associated with Kentone include jazz saxophonist Harold Land and R&B vocalist Johnny Harris. The label was known for its distinctive sound and production techniques, which contributed to the popularization of West Coast jazz and early R&B. In the 1970s, Kentone expanded its catalog to include soul and funk, further solidifying its influence in the music industry. Although it eventually ceased operations, Kentone's legacy endures through its contributions to the evolution of American music, particularly in the genres of jazz and R&B, and its role in promoting emerging talent during a transformative period in music history.