Signet

Signet Records was founded in 1956 by the American entrepreneur and producer, John H. Hammond, as a subsidiary of Columbia Records. Initially focused on jazz, the label aimed to capture the burgeoning sounds of the 1950s and 1960s. It became known for its roster of notable artists, including jazz legends such as Thelonious Monk and Dave Brubeck, as well as folk artists like Joan Baez. Throughout the 1960s, Signet expanded its genres to include rock and pop, reflecting the diverse musical landscape of the era. However, by the early 1970s, the label struggled to maintain its identity amidst changing industry dynamics and was eventually absorbed into Columbia's broader catalog. Despite its relatively short lifespan, Signet Records left a lasting impact on the jazz and folk scenes, contributing to the preservation and promotion of significant musical works and artists during a transformative period in American music history.