Rock Feed Ash Avildsen (Sumerian Records)
9 snips
Mar 8, 2025 
Ash Avildsen, founder of Sumerian Records and director of the film Queen of the Ring, shares his journey of discovering wrestling icon Mildred Burke's story. He discusses signing breakthrough bands like BAD OMENS and the decline of major labels in rock. Ash reveals plans for a unique all-female festival, Miss Mayhem, and emphasizes the importance of grit and background in signing new artists. He also highlights how MySpace played a pivotal role in his label's early success and offers insights into the emotional challenges of creating his film.
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Finding Mildred Burke's Lost Story
- Ash Avildsen discovered Mildred Burke via Jeff Leen's book and immediately pivoted to make her story a film.
- He partnered with Jim Ross to ensure wrestling authenticity and became obsessed with Burke's forgotten legacy.
Courtroom Encounter That Fueled A Chip On His Shoulder
- Ash recounts being labeled a 'nepo baby' despite never meeting his father during his early music career.
- He describes a painful family court encounter where his father ignored him, a memory that shaped his drive.
Panic Attack At His Father's Q&A
- Years later Ash surprised his father at a Q&A and had a panic attack triggered by the emotional moment.
- That panic attack led him to appreciate therapy and confronting long-buried issues.
