Sophie Ryder is a woman truly dedicated to promoting and discovering the next wave of emerging artists and bands in the Northern Rivers. With her passion for fresh, new music, her label, Flaming Heart Records, is a much-needed record company that connects and celebrates the diverse sounds of the ever-expanding Northern River’s music scene.
Sophie took some time out of her incredibly busy schedule to chat with me about her record label, as well as some of her exciting projects for 2026.
First up, can you tell me a little bit about Flaming Heart Records and how it all came about?
Flaming Heart Records is a DIY, independent record label solely run by myself. In my case, ‘label’ is definitely more of an umbrella term, as I also organise and promote local shows and offer artist services to independent musicians.
I started Flaming Heart back in 2021 when I was studying at SAE, with the aim of becoming a mixing engineer. My passion sort of shifted towards the music business, as I realised that I wanted to lean more into the behind-the-scenes of the music industry. I absolutely love music and feel so passionate about the music scene here in the Northern Rivers.
How was the feedback from the Flaming Hearts Festival last year? Are you planning on bringing another one to the Northern Rivers this year?
Last year’s Flaming Heart Fest was absolutely incredible! I still have people tell me how much of an amazing day they had, which means so much to me. Spangled Drongo and I teamed up to revive live music at the Burringbar Hall, and it was such a great success.
This year, the Flaming Heart Fest will be 28th February at Iron & Resin in Currumbin, which is the first interstate show I’ve organised! But, I am definitely planning something in the Northern Rivers this year… not a Flaming Heart Fest, but no doubt a minifest or two! My label turns five this year, and I believe celebrations are in order.
What made you so passionate about the music industry and bringing lesser-known bands to the forefront?
Growing up in the Northern Rivers and on the Gold Coast border, I’ve been lucky to witness so many incredible musicians start their careers here. The community is so tight-knit and so supportive. It’s not uncommon to have the same musicians in multiple bands. I have always been a huge fan of music, ever since I was a kid, so delving into my local scene just made sense.
The bands in this area are not only extremely talented – but they are also genuine people and passionate about what they do. Cutting through the noise in a heavily saturated industry is not easy, and I just want to be part of bringing them to the forefront as much as possible.
What have been your career highlights to date? Any industry-related obstacles you’ve had to overcome?
One of the most exciting opportunities was while I was living in Berlin in 2024. I got to intern with Sony Music with their metal label, Century Media. It was honestly such a dream come true, and the lessons I learnt and experiences I had were invaluable. My time there really helped me fine-tune aspects of Flaming Heart, and I was really inspired to keep stepping up and work harder.
Running a label independently isn’t always easy—I’m a manager, publicist, marketer, content creator, distributor and promoter, all rolled into one. Establishing strong organisational systems and building sustainable, genuine relationships is extremely important. Having a supportive community around you is also incredibly powerful.
What does 2026 hold for Flaming Heart Records and yourself?
I am so stoked to be running the fourth Flaming Heart Fest at Iron & Resin, Currumbin on Saturday 28th February (tickets on sale now haha). As I mentioned earlier, my label turns five this year, so expect some kind of birthday party! Flaming Heart is also set to release a couple of debut albums, so keep your eye out! I feel like I have so much to learn about the world of music (it’s ever-changing) and I want to continue to strive to be someone helpful and supportive for my local scene.
More about Flaming Heart Records
‘Short and Sweet’ is your backstage pass to NSW’s Northern Rivers Music Scene, inspired by BayFM’s Ange Kent host of Northern Rivers Music Box and music journalist, Prudence Clark, from Off the Record.