(WEST LONG BRANCH, NJ) -- Blue Hawk Records, Monmouth University's student-run record label, is marking a major milestone with the release of its 25th compilation album, Vol. 25: Signature Edition, on Friday, December 6th, 2024. This special album features seven new original tracks from Monmouth students, alumni, and even an American Idol contestant, showcasing the diverse talents within the university community.

Bringing a new sound to Blue Hawk Records, these 7 artists have come together to create the signature sound that the Record Label Strategies team was searching for. On November 4th, 2024, the team released an announcement revealing this semester’s artists: Ballistic Berry, Hana McKinney, Michael Anthony Rocks, Marley Bell, Stevie 808, Emily Cassler, and Elijah Elias. Monmouth alumni Nick Garrecht and his band, Ballistic Berry, are featured on the album with a punk rock single titled “98 Degrees.” Junior, Hana Mckinney is bringing surf rock to the forefront with her “Swan Lake Song.” Senior, Michael Anthony Rocks is laying down a groovy feel with his song, “The Talking Stage.” Junior, Marley Bell is channeling small-town vibes with her song, “black and blue.” Senior, Stevie 808 is keeping his audience guessing with his synth- pop fusion “In Line.” Freshman, Emily Cassler brings some serious vocals with her song, “Empty Pages.” And last but not least, freshman Elijah Elias adds a nice upbeat vibe to the album with his song, “Save My Soul.” Each artist featured on Blue Hawk Records’ 25th compilation album brings their own unique talents that are different from anything that has been featured before.

From athletes to alumni to a former American Idol contestant, this album highlights the incredibly diverse backgrounds of the artists involved, making Vol. 25: Signature Edition a truly unique and spirited collection of songs. Each track has been carefully crafted, and the result is an album that is sure to become a favorite on playlists everywhere.

In celebration of this landmark release, Blue Hawk Records is teaming up with WMCX, Monmouth’s student-run radio station, for a special event. The collaboration will take place on December 6th at 7:00pm during WMCX's WinterFest event. The event will be held in Plangere Room 235 and will include live performances, Q&A with the featured artists, food, giveaways, and more. The entire release party will be simulcast live on WMCX, allowing fans from all over to tune in and join the celebration. Monmouth University is located at 400 Cedar Avenue in West Long Branch, New Jersey.

“We’re so proud of the hard work put into Vol. 25: Signature Edition. This album represents the incredible talent within the Blue Hawk Music Group, and we’re thrilled to partner with WMCX to share this milestone with the world,” said Chelsea Lagotta, this semester’s Label Operations Manager. And, as Music & Theater Department Chair, whose class produces the Blue Hawk Records release each semester, Joe Rapolla puts it, “The students in the Record Label Strategies class have outdone themselves, and we’re excited to present this phenomenal collection of music and showcase everyone’s hard work.”

Don’t miss the chance to celebrate the 25th album release of Blue Hawk Records—join the students, artists, and fans at the release party on December 6th at 7:00pm, or tune in to WMCX for the live broadcast. Vol. 25: Signature Edition will also be available for streaming on all major platforms starting December 6th. You can pre-save the album here.

Blue Hawk Records (BHR) is the student-run record label at Monmouth University, providing an immersive, hands-on experience for students interested in the music industry. Established in 2013, BHR has grown into a dynamic program that allows students to gain firsthand experience in all aspects of operating a record label, from artist branding and record production to marketing strategy and live event management. Recognized by Billboard magazine as one of the top music business schools in the country, Monmouth University prides itself on fostering a comprehensive learning environment for aspiring music industry professionals.