Oneonta, New York Music Company Keeps it Old School

It takes a lot to impress me these days in terms of music. Gone are the days of subterranean music creation and distribution that creates community - or so I thought.

I'm an aging New York Hardcore kid who still carries the flag of creative rebellion and the do-it-yourself ethos. Our music scene was by us, for us, and built a solid community. Oneonta's M.E.B Records, while completely different in scope and genre embodies many of the same qualities that we employed a generation ago to impressive results.

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M.E.B Records is a professional recording studio owned by entrepreneur Fateem Smith. They offer audio production services such as recording, mixing & mastering. They work on projects such as podcast production, freestyle web series, open mics, and much more.

I sat down to discuss M.E.B recently with Smith, and was duly impressed with what they're doing. While the label and studio's focus is local hip-hop, they're branching out to other genres as well. Smith is a native of Bronx, New York, the birthplace of hip hop. At the age of 29, Smith is wise beyond his years. A counter-revolutionary in many ways, Smith shepherds and oversees everything M.E.B.

Much like we used to hold Sunday matinees at CBGB, M.E.B hosts frequent showcase events where artists take the stage and perform. While artistic creativity and a positive message are firmly at the forefront, M.E.B is inadvertently creating community around art and music, and by default, a local scene. All things considered, M.E.B is bringing the underground to street level quietly and unapologetically.

M.E.B Records is located at 19 Ford Ave in Oneonta. Their next artist showcase will take place on Saturday, May 18th. Check their Facebook page for more details.