Cartel+

PhonkCartel Files • Chapter 03

Hey, thank you for reading this. This time we’re taking a slightly different approach with the PhonkFiles… because we wanted to talk with you on a more serious note.

We have always believed that one strong, unified platform built the right way is more powerful than many separate ones. High-quality products, direct connections, everything in one place. That belief is what we started PhonkCartel with.

We built it as a real home where fans can support the merch and culture they care about. Limited, high-quality drops that translate the artist’s vision into wearable pieces. No filler, just meaningful items. Over time it grew into a multi-brand space where you can discover different labels and artists all under one roof. That platform and the direct connection between fans and creators will always stay at the core of what we do.

While growing the shop we also started working more deeply with artists on the music side. PhonkCartel already handles music management and releases for Hong Kong Violence, Terrorheads, DTS Hardcore, and Unique. Those experiences showed us the next clear step.

The Honest Truth

Technically this was a logical expansion for us. We already have the infrastructure in place to deliver high-quality merchandise, handle music releases, and support artist development. Adding professional booking and promotion felt like something we could actually pull off with our current setup.

At the same time, yeah, we are not sure what it fully means to run an agency. We know this is a completely different ball game than running a merch platform. We’re not pretending otherwise.

Cartel+ is initially run by Maarten and Steven. The whole agency idea came from these two guys.

Maarten works a lot with people in his day job and will be the internal spokesperson for the agency. As part of OTM he knows exactly where the DJs are coming from — the late nights, the drives, the reality of the scene — but he also brings a structured and reliable approach.

Steven (Mordekaiser) brings deep scene knowledge from years as an artist plus real experience on agency levels. He works in professional environments daily and understands how things actually get done.

Together they make sure Cartel+ stays true to the underground while operating professionally.

We are not becoming a big corporate agency. Our culture stays real. Our processes and communication run on a high, organised level. That combination is what we believe will help both artists and the scene move forward.

What Cartel+ Brings

• Artists First: Fair and transparent deals, and real partnerships.
• Clear Communication: Fast responses and a clear path forward.
• Social Reach & Visibility: Support through the PhonkCartel network, community channels, and organic exposure.
• Long-Term Mindset: We focus on sustainable development. Merchandise, music releases, and artist growth all working together.

We don’t see Cartel+ as the final destination. It’s just one development phase, another tool to help the artists who built this with us move forward while keeping the merch platform strong and independent.

Nothing changes on the PhonkCartel side. Same mindset. We still love merchandise. Same focus on quality drops and direct fan connections. We’re simply adding this new pillar while building further on the infrastructure we already have.

Who’s Already On Board

The first wave who have trusted us with this next step:

• OTM (Maarten & Indy)
• Mordekaiser (Steven)
• Speedfolter (Jelle)
• Benzo (Ben)
• X3SK (Gabriel)
• Death Row (Yannic)
• M³ (Maarten, Maarten, Mordekaiser)

For now our capacity is intentionally limited, but feel free to send a message and have a talk.

To the Promoters & Venues

If you’re running nights, clubs, or festivals and you’re looking for reliable talent with proper support behind them, reach out. We speak your language and we make things straightforward.

See you soon,

The PhonkCartel Crew