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Episode details

Radio 6 Music,17 Mar 2026,180 mins

Always Check the Label: Bella Union

Huw Stephens

Available for 16 days

In this week’s Always Check the Label, Huw Stephens turns the spotlight on one of the UK’s most influential independent record labels. Joining him are Simon Raymonde and Abbey Raymonde from Bella Union, the label known for championing adventurous and atmospheric artists from around the world. Founded in 1997 by Cocteau Twins’ Simon Raymonde and Robin Guthrie, Bella Union has become synonymous with forward-thinking indie music, helping bring artists like Fleet Foxes, Father John Misty, and Beach House to wider audiences. Simon and Abbey sit down with Huw to talk about the story behind Bella Union, the philosophy that drives the label, and the artists and records that have shaped its identity. Huw has another brand new quiz created by the Music Quiz Generator, giving one of you the opportunity to win a Music Sounds Better With Huw pinbadge. And we declare that your evening has begun with the Home Run playlist at 5 o'clock. Plus, MJ Cole also takes part in this weeks 'Song I Wish I'd Written'. Produced by BBC Audio in Cardiff for BBC Radio 6 Music.

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