In the late 1970s, Bruce Pavitt left Chicago for Olympia, Washington, to attend The Evergreen State College, a progressive institution that championed self-directed learning. For Pavitt, this freedom allowed him to immerse himself in his passion for underground music. Olympia, with its thriving countercultural ethos, became the perfect environment for his transformative journey.
KAOS-FM: A Gateway to the Underground
One of Pavitt’s earliest stops at Evergreen was KAOS-FM, the college’s student-run radio station. At KAOS, Pavitt took over the DJ role from Calvin Johnson (founder of K Records). Immersed in the station’s vast archive, Pavitt discovered a treasure trove of music from obscure and regional bands. Under the leadership of John Foster, KAOS had built one of the most extensive collections of independent music in the country. Foster believed that at least 80% of the music aired should be produced and distributed independently, ensuring the station became a bastion for uncommercialized, authentic sounds.
Op Magazine and an Independent Vision
John Foster, was also the director of Op Magazine, focused on promoting experimental and non-mainstream music, advocating for artistic freedom and independence. Pavitt was inspired by the magazine’s approach and its dedication to supporting underground music. This influence motivated him to launch his own fanzine, driven by a similar passion for regional music scenes and creative risk-taking
The Birth of Subterranean Pop
In the spring of 1980, Bruce Pavitt launched Subterranean Pop—later shortened to Sub Pop—a fanzine dedicated to documenting and celebrating the vibrant, locally driven underground music scenes across America. With an initial investment of just $20, Pavitt printed 200 copies of the first issue, a photocopied zine that offered reviews of obscure artists, reflections on the independent music movement, and a manifesto-like tone that reflected his commitment to grassroots creativity.
Despite its humble beginnings, Subterranean Pop quickly spread internationally, reaching Australia, Japan, and the United Kingdom. In fact, the zine eventually found its way into the hands of legendary BBC DJ John Peel—a key figure in the UK’s music scene (but more on that in a future article).
In the opening issue, Pavitt wrote:
“We need diverse, regionalized, localized approaches to all forms of art, music, and politics…the most intense music, the most original ideas are coming out of scenes you don’t even know exist. Tomorrow’s pop is being realized today on small decentralized record labels that are interested in taking risks, not making money.”
This statement captured the zine’s purpose: to uncover sounds and ideas beyond the mainstream and to champion artists willing to push boundaries. Pavitt’s passion and editorial vision helped establish Sub Pop as an essential resource for anyone interested in the burgeoning independent music movement.
Connecting Zine and Sound
To complement the written content, Pavitt began curating cassette compilations under the Sub Pop name. These tapes gave readers a chance to hear the music featured in the zine, creating a more immersive experience that brought the underground world to life.
A Move to Seattle: Fallout Records
In 1983, Pavitt partnered with fellow employee, Russ Battaglia, to open Fallout Records and Skateboards. However, Pavitt decided to move on, leaving Fallout in 1985. His time at the store, though brief, helped him further develop his understanding of the music world, and solidified his connection to Seattle’s thriving alternative scene.
This experience would prove crucial as he prepared to take the next step in his journey—launching Sub Pop Records in 1986.
