MAD Dragon Music Group (MDMG) is a student-run, independent music company based at Drexel University in Philadelphia. Founded in 2003 under the Drexel Music Industry Program, it’s led by students and overseen by faculty and staff. The group’s mission is to offer hands-on industry experience through its various divisions—MAD Dragon Records, DraKo Booking, MAD Dragon Publishing, MADKo Concerts, and artist services firm Bantic Media—operating out of Drexel’s multimillion-dollar recording complex.
MAD Dragon Records is especially notable as the only student-run label with national distribution, initially through Ryko in 2005 and later via Alternative Distribution Alliance (ADA/Warner). The label has released over 20 titles, earning accolades such as the 2008 and 2009 College Record Label Awards from the Independent Music Awards for collaborations with acts like Hoots & Hellmouth and The Redwalls. Beyond record production, MDMG students gain real-world experience booking tours, promoting concerts in Philadelphia, securing licensing deals for publishing, and providing artist services—all within a fully functioning music enterprise.
Through this experiential model, MAD Dragon not only supports emerging artists—from fellow students to regional acts—but also cultivates the next generation of music professionals. Notable alumni include artist Matt Duke, whose early work was released through MAD Dragon, helping pave his path toward a full recording contract