The label was a natural progression for the nightclub and was originally called “Sound of Ministry.” It represented what was played, the hugely successful compilations business was also started around the same time as the first release, Sessions Volume One by Tony Humphries. It was the first of its kind, and still to this day is one of London’s biggest and best super-clubs, which is no mean feat given the turmoil and continued threat of nightclubs in London for property redevelopment. Paradise Garage was the inspiration – the sound system, the main room, the music. They opened without a drinks license or any seating, and at the time it was in one of the roughest areas in South East London in a disused bus shelter.

Ministry nightclub doors were opened in 1991 by Justin Berkmann and James Palumbo. Who founded Ministry of Sound, and what inspired them to do so? Here, Ministry of Sound President Dipesh Parmar discusses the label’s origin, its brightest stars and what aspiring producers can do to get on the Ministry radar. It’s also the UK home for artists including Doja Cat and Oliver Heldens.

The current roster includes London Grammar, Sigala, Skream and more. Mnek & Ame’s “Need U (100%).” Such sonic diversity remains a calling card, with the label - which was acquired by Sony in 2017 - focused on signing artists that sound nothing alike so as to cover the biggest swaths of the sprawling dance world. These hits aren’t just flukes: the Ministry back catalog contains a barrage of era-defining anthems including Benny Benassi’s “Satisfaction,” Eric Prydz’s “Call On Me,” Tim Berg’s “Seek Bromance,” Fedde Le Grande’s “Put Your Hands Up For Detroit,” Kid Cudi vs Crookers’ “Day N Night,” London Grammar’s “Hey Now” and Duke Dumont Feat.

Ministry of sound radio