Asian Man Records

At first glance Asian Man Records may seem like your typical independent label signing bands. But when one pays close attention, Asian Man Records is far from your average record label. Even Asian Man Records’ logo becomes a dead giveaway – appropriating the South Korean flag’s taegeuki. A single mastermind - Mike Park, a musician himself, runs Asian Man Records in his parents’ garage. Park officially created Asian Ma

n Records in 1996, although he had been releasing records since 1991. As a musician, Park wanted an outlet to release his own music but also to release other bands’ music that he found inspirational. On the Asian Man Records website, Park specifically says “I only work with bands that are ANTI-RACIST, ANTI-SEXIST, ANTI-PREJUIDICE, and who support the ideas of peace and unity.” Unlike major labels, Park’s goal isn’t to make money but to spread a positive message. Even in naming Asian Man Records, Park said that he wanted to spread the message of positivity to fellow Asians. Park wanted people to know that a minority, especially in Rock n’ Roll, could be successful. Asian Man Records continues to work with political-oriented bands that promote such positivity and acceptance. Asian Man Records has been quite successful, former artists including Alkaline Trio and Less than Jake. Asian Man Records also expanded internationally with the success of PotShot, a Japanese band and by hiring a liaison in Europe to sell Asian Man merchandise (it is no longer open though).

Asian Man Records was only one of Park’s many activist ventures. In Spring of 1998, he organized a tour called “Ska Against Racism”. The tour’s purpose was to use music to raise awareness about racism. The tour, which spanned over 20 states, was instigated by Park’s personal experiences with racism. With seven bands, a local band at each stop and collaboration with several anti-racism organizations, Park set out to “fight racism in a non-violent manner.” Much money was raised for anti-racism non-profits such as the Museum of Tolerance.

Park also founded the Plea for Peace Foundation in 1999 in San Jose, CA. Park wanted to promote his positive messages, this time, to the youth of the Bay Area. With a decade a hard work, Park was finally able to open the Plea for Peace Teen Center in Stockton, CA.

Mike Park’s endeavors continue to a success today. As a musician, he is still releasing music. As a record label owner, Park is still signing indie bands. Serving as role model for aspiring minority rock musicians, Mike Park demonstrates the positive impact one man can make.