Realistic

Realistic was a record label established in the late 1960s, primarily as a budget label for the RadioShack chain, which was owned by Tandy Corporation. The label aimed to provide affordable music options, often featuring various genres, including rock, pop, and classical. It became notable for releasing budget compilations and albums by lesser-known artists, making music accessible to a broader audience. Throughout the 1970s and into the 1980s, Realistic gained recognition for its diverse catalog, which included instrumental and easy listening music, appealing to consumers seeking affordable alternatives to mainstream releases. While the label was not home to major stars, it featured a range of artists, some of whom contributed to the growing DIY music culture of the time. Realistic's legacy lies in its role in democratizing music access and its contribution to the budget label phenomenon, influencing how music was marketed and consumed in the era before digital distribution.