Wax Trax! Industrial Accident: Honesty and Legacy'

Wax Trax! Records, the iconic independent label, has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Founded by Jim Nash and Dannie Flesher in 1981, the label's legacy is a testament to its unwavering commitment to honesty and inclusivity.

For Nash, honesty was at the forefront of Wax Trax!'s mission. In his words, 'It's just honesty, you know? The whole thing is honest.' This sincerity shone through in the label's direct approach to telling stories about the LGBTQI+ community, a subject often marginalized or silenced during the AIDS crisis.

As Nash's daughter Julia revived the label's imprint in 2014, it became clear that Wax Trax!'s impact extended far beyond its heyday. The label's influence can be heard across genres and movements, from queercore to EDM, and has inspired countless artists and fans alike.

During the label's prominence, mainstream gay culture was dominated by commercial pop acts like Culture Club and Wham!. In contrast, Wax Trax! championed subversive tunes made by queer black and brown artists and those abroad. This commitment to showcasing diverse voices and perspectives helped create a safe haven for LGBTQI+ music fans and culture consumers in the Midwest.

Wax Trax!'s legacy is also a tribute to its founders' unwavering dedication to their vision. Despite the challenges they faced, Nash and Flesher remained steadfast in their support for non-binary folks, drag queens, weirdos, punks, goths, and rave kids - all of whom were given a platform to express themselves through music.

Though Nash and Flesher have passed away due to complications from AIDS, their mark on Chicago is still celebrated. In 2011, a three-day 'Retrospectacle' at Metro benefited Center on Halsted, the largest LGBTQI+ resource non-profit in the Midwest, honoring the label's enduring legacy.

Today, Wax Trax! remains an important cultural touchstone, serving as a reminder of the power of honesty and inclusivity. Its impact will continue to resonate with fans for generations to come, cementing its place as one of the most influential independent labels in music history.

Wax trax industrial accident