Aretino Records was a U.S. record label in operation from around 1907 to 1914, founded by Arthur J. O’Neill, a figure involved in several Chicago-area phonograph and record companies. The label was named after Guido Aretino, an 11th-century Italian monk known for his contributions to the musical scale. Aretino is most notable for its unusual record design, featuring the largest spindle hole ever produced for commercial records. This design was part of a premium marketing scheme, where a phonograph was offered at a low price but was only compatible with Aretino records due to its unique 3-inch spindle. To address this, O’Neill also provided adapters to allow Aretino records to be played on standard phonographs.
Aretino did not produce its own recordings but leased masters from other companies. Initially, the label’s records were manufactured by Leeds & Catlin and later by Hawthorne & Sheble and Zonophone after Leeds & Catlin was shut down. Despite a close business relationship with Universal Talking Machine, O’Neill’s association with the brand ended after Victor, the parent company of Universal, distanced itself due to concerns about Aretino’s lower-end image. Afterward, Columbia became the sole supplier for Aretino’s records. In 1910, O’Neill merged his Busy Bee and Aretino operations, but by 1914, Aretino ceased its operations, with O’Neill’s remaining assets absorbed into the Consolidated Talking Machine Company by 1916.
The music on Aretino Records reflected the popular sounds of the time, with artists like Henry Burr, William F. Denny, Byron G. Harlan, Ada Jones, and Bert Williams contributing their recordings to the label.
Arentino Records Discography
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