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In 1985, Steve met Dan Dohner. They became good friends. Since the record company was a lot more for just one person to handle, Dan agreed to become the Vice-President of the company. Between the two of them, the record company steadily increased it’s catalogue of music. Steve produced the music, while Dan looked for new talent and Investors for the Company. In 1992, after producing “A Chino Hills Christmas”, subsidy contracts were introduced into the Company, to broaden it’s services. |
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Brass star Records was initially conceived in 1978 by Stephen J. Hemenway. Having written music since he was 12 years old, Stephen wanted to one day have his own record company. In 1978, Steve signed a recording contract with Phil Good Records, in Ontario, CA. After recording a single with Phil Good Records, he decided to go into an independent recording studio on his own and record his first album. This album, “Regina-Demos In The Raw”, was recorded between 1983-1988. In 1988, the album was completed, but there was no label to distribute or promote it. Henceforth, Brass Star Records was born. Steve created the Brass Star Records D.B.A., researched how record companies operate, accumulated a list of over 1000 radio stations, bought a computer, developed a list of distributers and was now in business. Over 1000 “Regina” albums were distributed to radio stations throughout the United States. It is unknown if the title song “Regina” was ever actually played, however, much to Steve’s suprise, the flip side, “I Loved You”, received airplay on several radio stations. The first Royalty check received by Brass Star Records for this song was only $8.00, and is framed and hanging on the company’s wall to this day. |
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History of Brass Star Records |
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Stephen J. Hemenway |
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Brass Star Records was named from Steve’s place of employment. As a Los Angeles County Deputy Sheriff, the name seemed appropriate. After the release of the first album, other projects were developed. “Lizza” (Liza Magsombol) performed her dance EP, “Dance, Dance, Dance”, which was very successful. Next followed “Ragadance” and the rock band “Cheetah”. Before long, the record company was producing all types of music and becoming known for it’s diversity. |
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Dan R. Dohner |
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In 1993, Steve began writing “The Slouch In The Couch” series of childrens learning books. People loved it and huge success followed. He formed a band and Incorporated, “The Slouch & Friends, Inc.”. Steve became the Corporations CEO, and Dan became the President of “Brass Star Records”, which became a subsidiary of the Corporation. |
