Horst Weidenmüller, the visionary CEO and founder of !K7 Music, has been honored with the esteemed IMPALA Outstanding Contribution Award for his significant influence and contributions to the European independent music scene. This recognition underscores his dedication and the lasting impact he has made throughout his career, which has spanned nearly four decades in the industry.

This prestigious accolade arrives just as !K7 Music prepares to celebrate its remarkable 40th anniversary. Founded by Weidenmüller in 1985, the label has grown and adapted over the years, consistently pushing boundaries and redefining what an independent music label can achieve in a rapidly evolving industry.

During a recent board meeting, the IMPALA organization praised Weidenmüller’s nearly four-decade career, highlighting his essential role in promoting and enhancing the independent music industry. Originally starting as a music video production company in Berlin, !K7 Music has transformed into a diverse label celebrated for its innovative DJ-Kicks series, which debuted in 1993, as well as its various sub-labels, including Strut Records, 7K!, and Ever Records, each contributing to the rich tapestry of modern music.

Apart from the label’s commercial success, Weidenmüller has emerged as a passionate champion for sustainability and inclusion within the music industry. As a longstanding member of the IMPALA board and the founder of its Sustainability Task Force, he has led initiatives such as the development of a tailored carbon calculator for music labels in collaboration with renowned organizations like Julie’s Bicycle, Merlin, and Murmur. His efforts have also been pivotal in crafting IMPALA’s Business Case for Sustainability, which highlights the financial advantages of adopting environmentally friendly business practices.

Under Weidenmüller’s guidance, !K7 Music has proudly achieved certification as a B Corporation, a testament to its unwavering commitment to exemplary social and environmental performance. The company is also deeply involved in community outreach, including partnerships with educational institutions such as Ernst-Reuter-Schule in Berlin, where students are trained in essential skills like music production, marketing, and distribution, thereby fostering the next generation of music industry professionals.

“Horst is a force of nature, lifting all those that work with him,” remarked Helen Smith, Executive Chair of IMPALA. “His impactful role as vice-president of the IMPALA board established a strong foundation, which was further solidified when he initiated our sustainability task force four years ago.” This statement reflects the high regard in which he is held by his peers and highlights his influential leadership style.

Peter Quicke, co-chair of IMPALA’s Sustainability Task Force and managing director of Ninja Tune, added, “Horst doesn’t just talk about sustainability; he takes action. His pragmatic approach has made !K7 a model for how independent labels can lead by example.” This recognition underscores Weidenmüller’s proactive stance and his effectiveness in implementing sustainable practices within the music industry.

Expressing his heartfelt gratitude for receiving the award, Weidenmüller stated, “I am touched to receive IMPALA’s award. The culture and values of !K7 translate into all aspects of my work, whether in music, sustainability, inclusion, or digital initiatives and beyond. My mission with IMPALA extends from these principles, as does our commitment to maintaining our status as a certified B-Corp business. This journey is a collective endeavor, showcasing how the independent sector consistently proves its leadership.”

“That is something I am super proud of. Thanks to all the IMPALA board members!”