Vaseline Records, founded in the early 1990s by music producer and entrepreneur John Smith, emerged as a notable independent label in the alternative and indie rock scenes. Initially focused on releasing cassette tapes, the label gained traction with its distinctive sound and aesthetic, appealing to a burgeoning underground audience. Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, Vaseline became synonymous with lo-fi and experimental music, signing key artists such as The Velvet Shadows and The Electric Punks, who pushed genre boundaries and cultivated a dedicated fanbase. The label also ventured into post-rock and folk, expanding its catalog and influence. By the late 2000s, Vaseline Records had established a legacy of fostering innovative talent and supporting artistic freedom. Although it faced challenges with the rise of digital music, the label remains a respected name in indie circles, celebrated for its contributions to the evolution of alternative music and its role in promoting emerging artists.