Where scenes are created, artists thrive.
Public School Records (PSR, @publicschoolrecords on Instagram) is a student-run record label founded at UC Berkeley by Matthew McHugh — the first student-run record label at Berkeley. PSR provides student artists with label services, including live performance and music production opportunities, marketing services, and artist development support. What started on one campus is now a network: Berkeley is the flagship chapter, and Los Angeles is live.
With over 110 members, PSR is a vibrant community of music and arts enthusiasts united by a shared passion for creation. We have four departments — Artists & Repertoire (A&R), Marketing, Events, and Creative — each dedicated to a different aspect of artist support. This structure provides members with hands-on experience of what it's like to work at a real record label, while making a direct impact on the local music scene.
We're proud to say we've worked with over 20 local bands and artists. Beyond music, our events have also supported philanthropic causes, raising funds for organizations such as the American Red Cross and Cal Fire.
At PSR, we're all about our slogan: "Ride the Bus" — emphasizing our commitment to fostering a welcoming, collaborative community that is easy to "hop on and hop off."
Frequently asked questions
- What is Public School Records?
- Public School Records (PSR) is a student-run record label founded at UC Berkeley. It was the first student-run record label at Berkeley, and it now operates as a network of campus chapters in Berkeley and Los Angeles. PSR signs and develops student artists, produces live shows, and gives students hands-on experience running a real music company.
- Where is Public School Records based?
- PSR was founded at UC Berkeley in Berkeley, California. It now runs two active chapters: Berkeley, the flagship, and Los Angeles.
- Is PSR a real record label?
- Yes. PSR provides label services to student artists — artist development and A&R, marketing, live events, and release support. It is run entirely by students across four departments: A&R, Marketing, Events, and Creative.
- How do I join Public School Records?
- Students can join PSR as members and work across A&R, marketing, events, or creative. For Berkeley, applications open at the beginning of each semester!
- How do I submit music to Public School Records?
- Artists can send music to team@publicschoolrecords.com. PSR reads every submission. Please include who you are, where you play, and links to your music. We try to respond to all submissions, but it may take some time!
- What does "Ride the Bus" mean?
- It is PSR's slogan. It reflects a community that is deliberately easy to hop on and hop off — welcoming, collaborative, and open to students regardless of prior music-industry experience.