coopalbum

A coopalbum is a record album featuring performances by a group of musicians who work together under a cooperative agreement. This type of collaborative release is often associated with the early 20th-century music scene in the United States, particularly in the 1920s.

A defining characteristic of a coopalbum is the cooperative ownership structure among the musicians involved. Instead of a single artist or band being credited as the primary creator, the album reflects the joint contribution of multiple artists who share ownership and creative control. This innovation in music business models allowed musicians to share revenue and retain control over their work, while also promoting a sense of community and mutual support.

Cooperative albums were typically released under the name of a collective, often featuring a rotating cast of musicians who participated in various sessions and recordings. This approach fostered a spirit of collaboration and innovation, as artists were encouraged to experiment and push the boundaries of their respective styles. Coopalbums often featured a mix of jazz, blues, and folk influences, reflecting the eclecticism of the time.

Despite their contributions to the development of 20th-century music, coopalbums have largely been overshadowed by more popular forms of collaborative releases, such as supergroups and side projects. However, their legacy can be seen in the numerous cooperative ventures that have emerged in the music industry, from co-ed Big Band ensembles to modern-day electronic music collectives.