Longtime owner and CEO recognized by The New York Times for helping generations of independent artists bring their music to the world.
PENNSAUKEN, N.J., Sept. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Disc Makers is honoring the life and legacy of Morris Ballen, its longtime owner and CEO, who passed away peacefully at his Philadelphia home on September 21 at the age of 88.
On September 27, The New York Times published an obituary recognizing Ballen's contributions to independent music: "Morris Ballen, Who Helped Spread Indie Artists' Music, Dies at 88."
Ballen joined the company founded by his father, Ivin Ballen, and devoted his career to helping transform Disc Makers from a regional record-pressing operation into a national leader serving independent musicians.
In the 1980s, Ballen recognized that a growing number of artists wanted to build careers without waiting for a traditional record label to discover them. His vision was to give those artists access to the same professional-quality manufacturing and packaging available to major-label acts—but in quantities and at prices independent musicians could afford.
Under his leadership, Disc Makers evolved with the music industry, producing vinyl records, cassettes and CDs while remaining committed to giving artists the tools to create, promote and sell their music on their own terms.
"Morris understood that independent artists deserved the same quality and respect as artists signed to major labels," said Tony van Veen, president of Disc Makers. "That belief helped change the music business, and it remains central to who we are today."
Ballen also had a profound impact on the people who worked with him. He hired Tony van Veen directly out of college in 1987 and mentored him during his journey from an entry-level employee to CEO of Disc Makers.
"Morris's DNA remains deeply embedded in the company," van Veen wrote in a tribute to Ballen. "He believed in taking care of people and in taking chances on them."
Disc Makers celebrates its 80th anniversary this year. Ballen's influence remains visible throughout the company—in its entrepreneurial spirit, its commitment to independent creators and the many longtime employees and leaders he hired and mentored.
Morris Ballen never sought the spotlight. His legacy instead lives through the generations of artists he empowered, the careers he helped make possible and the company he devoted his life to building.
About Disc Makers
Founded in 1946, Disc Makers has helped independent artists bring their music to life for 80 years. The company provides professional CD, vinyl and USB manufacturing, custom packaging, audio mastering and related services designed to help musicians create, promote and sell their work. Disc Makers is headquartered in Pennsauken, New Jersey.
Media Contact
Daniel Baker, Disc Makers, 1 1-800-468-9353 5194, [email protected], https://www.discmakers.com
SOURCE Disc Makers
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