Biography
Dave Stapleton is an entrepreneur, pianist, composer, and photographer who has made a meaningful impact on the modern music industry, particularly within the jazz genre. As the founder of Edition Records, a leading independent jazz label established in Cardiff, Wales in 2008, Dave has guided the label's growth from a grassroots, artist-led initiative to a beacon of innovation. Edition Records is renowned for its unwavering commitment to artistic freedom and excellence, collaborating with some of the most respected, acclaimed, and revered artists in the global jazz scene.
In addition to his role at Edition Records, Dave is a dedicated member of Slowly Rolling Camera, a musical group based in Cardiff. As one-third of this ensemble, he brings his unique artistic vision and creative talents to the collective, seamlessly integrating his entrepreneurial spirit with his passion for music. Slowly Rolling Camera exemplifies Dave’s belief in maintaining artistic control while benefiting from strategic support, allowing the group to explore and expand their creative horizons.
From the inception of Edition Records, Dave recognized the importance of blending creative artistry with strategic innovation. Under his thoughtful leadership, Edition Records has mastered the delicate balance between fostering creativity and implementing cutting-edge marketing strategies. Dave approaches the label as an experimental sketchbook, continuously testing new methods to engage and market music in the digital era. This innovative mindset has enabled Edition Records to push boundaries, exploring uncharted territories in music distribution and promotion, and establishing itself as a global leader in the jazz music scene.
Dave's passion for redefining the role of record labels is driven by a genuine desire to empower artists. He firmly believes that in today’s fast-paced digital landscape, labels must evolve into collaborative partners that nurture and enhance an artist’s unique vision rather than dictate it. Under his guidance, Edition Records has become a creative hub where artists are encouraged to innovate and connect with audiences on a profound level, ensuring that their creative autonomy is preserved and celebrated.
Beyond his entrepreneurial achievements, Dave is an accomplished photographer whose work beautifully complements his musical pursuits. Photography has always been a vital outlet for his expression and creativity, allowing him to capture moments, light, and emotions that tell compelling stories. His photography mirrors the ethos of Edition Records, often highlighting the places he visits, the people he meets, and the narratives waiting to be uncovered through light and composition. Whether working in the studio or on the streets, Dave's photography blends controlled precision with spontaneous rawness, striving to create images that resonate deeply beyond the screen.
Dave’s dual passion for music and photography fuels his ability to create immersive narratives that engage and captivate audiences. As both an entrepreneur and artist, he continuously experiments with new techniques—ranging from slow shutter speeds and high-contrast black-and-white imagery to vibrant and idiosyncratic studio setups—to explore fresh perspectives. Each project serves as a learning experience, contributing to his personal and artistic growth.
For Dave Stapleton, art is a means to make sense of life. Whether through music, photography, or film, he views the creative process as a path to greater honesty, authenticity, and empathy. His work is not merely about the final product but about the transformative journey of creation. Through Edition Records, Slowly Rolling Camera, and his visual artistry, Dave continues to inspire and connect with audiences worldwide, consistently pushing the boundaries of what it means to be an artist in the modern era—all while maintaining a grounded and humble approach to his multifaceted endeavors.