WTPL Music
WTPL Music: How Jason Barnard Built an Independent Record Label That Took Over Europe
When the music industry shut its doors to The Barking Dogs, Jason Barnard built his own record label instead.
In 1991, Jason founded WTPL Music in Paris—a bold, independent record label designed to give The Barking Dogs a platform when major labels refused to sign them. What started as a necessity quickly became a thriving, influential force in the European music scene. For nearly a decade, Jason led WTPL Music as CEO (1991–1999), transforming it from a small publishing company into a leading independent record label and music publisher that signed major artists, landed global music deals, and shaped the careers of rising stars.
Breaking Barriers in the Music Industry
With zero backing from major labels, Jason took WTPL Music from an independent startup to a game-changer in the French and European music industry.
While other independent labels struggled to survive, WTPL thrived, growing into a respected name in the industry.
A Legacy That Still Stands Today
Under Jason’s leadership, WTPL Music expanded beyond The Barking Dogs, becoming a highly sought-after music publisher and service provider. The company — now based in Lille, continues to play a significant role in music production, publishing, and industry consulting.
- Released several albums for The Barking Dogs, such as “Une Nuit Tranquille Chez Les Barking Dogs” (1991), “Spasm” (1996), “Live” 1994) and “Bark!” (1993).
- Signed and developed successful artists like Lili Poe, Léa Paci, Jérémy Frérot, and Claudio Capéo, whose hits like “Amour Censure”, “Pour Aller Où?”, and “Un Homme Debout” have gained widespread recognition.
- Offered music supervision for major films, documentaries, commercials, and video games, including La Vie d’Adèle, Les Petits Mouchoirs, Camping 3, and Assassin’s Creed Origins.
- Trained and mentored aspiring musicians, producers, and composers, organizing masterclasses, workshops, and industry conferences on music rights, production, and innovation.
A Bold Vision, A Lasting Impact
Jason Barnard didn’t wait for an opportunity—he created it. He built WTPL Music from the ground up, proving that vision, resilience, and innovation can overcome even the most entrenched barriers in the industry.
What started as a passion project became a profitable, enduring success—a perfect example of entrepreneurial grit, creative ambition, and strategic execution.
From founding a record label that broke industry rules to engineering AI-driven personal brands, Jason Barnard has consistently been ahead of the curve—turning every challenge into an opportunity and every opportunity into success.