Big Dada

Big Dada Recordings is a British independent record label founded in 1997 by Ninja Tune. The label focuses primarily on alternative hip hop, experimental hip hop, and avant-garde rap music. It has been home to a diverse roster of artists known for their innovative and often politically charged lyrics and unconventional soundscapes.

The label's name is a play on Dadaism, an early 20th-century art movement that rejected logic, reason, and aestheticism, often embracing nonsense and irrationality. This reflects Big Dada's commitment to pushing the boundaries of hip hop and supporting artists who challenge conventional norms within the genre.

Notable artists who have released music on Big Dada include Roots Manuva, Diplo (early work), Wiley, Kate Tempest, Saul Williams, Mos Def (early UK releases), and Speech Debelle. The label has played a significant role in shaping the landscape of British hip hop and introducing international artists to a wider audience.

Big Dada has been praised for its consistent support of underground and experimental artists and for its dedication to releasing high-quality, thought-provoking music. Despite existing for over two decades, it maintains a reputation for being at the forefront of innovative and politically conscious hip hop.