Ork Records (Label)

American D.I.Y. independent punk rock record label Ork Records was co-founded in 1975 by Terry Ork (manager of Television, born William Terry Ork) and Charles Ball in New York City, New York. Ork Records released Television’s debut single “Little Johnny Jewel” followed by records from Richard Hell, Marbles (5), Alex Chilton, The Feelies and Mick Farren, among others. Arguably, both New York City, New York based Ork Records (Terry Ork / Charles Ball) & Whiplash Records (Rick Rivets / George Csanka / A.C. Doback) were / are the very first U.S. D.I.Y. independent punk rock record labels. "An Ork release was always a thrilling event. You never knew what direction the label would move and that was part of what made it such an exciting and ultimately ground-breaking enterprise. With Terry seeking out new bands and Charles keeping the machinery of the business running, Ork Records was a ticket to New York’s underground musical amusement park." (Marc Campbell in his obituary for Ball). Charles Ball later founded the No Wave label Lust/Unlust Music. In 2015 the label received tribute via the Various - Ork Records: New York, New York compilation.