STUDENT-RUN RECORD LABEL
Unispan Records, Hofstra University’s student-run record label, gives students the opportunity to gain real-world music industry experience while still in school. Working alongside accomplished industry professionals, students take an active role in discovering, developing, marketing, promoting, and distributing music for emerging artists. It’s an opportunity to move beyond learning about the music business and experience what it takes to build an artist’s career.
Real Artists. Real Music. Real Results.
Since its launch in 2016, Unispan Records student label executives have worked with various artist across a variety of genres helping to bring new music, EPs, videos, and performances to audiences. Previous artists include IzzeYe, KarmaRé, Rian Wyld, and Weird America,
To date, music from Unispan Records artists has generated more than 3 million streams, demonstrating what can happen when student creativity and energy are paired with professional mentorship.
For the 2026–2027 season, Unispan’s current roster features two distinctive emerging artists, Lydia Von Hof and Marques Martin.
Lydia Von Hof brings her own unique musical perspective to Unispan Records as a “Queer country singer-songwriter whose song “On My Way There” from her debut EP, The Strange, the Unusual, has surpassed 1.6 million Spotify streams! Building on that momentum, Lydia is slated to release her first single, “Run While You Can” on her upcoming sophomore EP.
Hear Lydia Talk about Unispan RecordsMarques Martin, a Maryland native, brings a distinct musical style blending trippy melodies and EDM-influenced beats with classic hip-hop rhythms. After signing with Unispan Records in Spring 2026, his debut single, “It’s the Feminine,” has already generated more than 40,000 streams and is steadily climbing as his audience grows.
Learn from Industry Professionals
At the heart of Unispan Records is the opportunity to learn from and engage with accomplished music and entertainment industry leaders.
Leading the way is Executive in Residence Leota Blacknor, who brings more than 30 years in the music industry, including roles with Virgin Records, Bad Boy, Capitol Records, and Roc Nation. She has worked with artists such as The Notorious B.I.G., DMX, 50 Cent, Eve, and Anita Baker.
Students also connect with industry professionals who provide mentorship and expertise in entertainment law, music supervision, A&R (artist & repertoire), music distribution, marketing, and artist development. These professionals bring experience from leading major music corporations including Warner Music Group and Atlantic Music Group, giving students valuable real-world industry insight.
Start Building Your Career Now
Whether your interests are in discovering new artists, digital marketing, finance, technology, etc., Unispan Records gives students from any major and discipline the opportunity to apply their unique skills and talents while gaining hands-on music industry experience.
At Unispan Records, students aren’t simply observing how a record label operates—they’re helping run one.
Build your network. Develop your skills. Help shape an artist’s career. And start building your own.
You don’t have to major in music to make your mark on the music industry — you just need a passion for it!
Take your next bold step with graduate programs that blend academic excellence and valuable experiences to elevate your professional journey.