Psychopathic Records is an American independent record label headquartered in Farmington Hills, Michigan. The label is most associated with the hip hop music subgenres horrorcore and rap rock. The label was founded in 1991 by Alex Abbiss and hip hop group Insane Clown Posse. The iconography of a man with a meat cleaver has been used for years as a symbol of the group, its fanbase, and its associates. In addition to producing music, Psychopathic also produces merchandise, video, and professional wrestling. Psychopathic runs its own manufacturing and distribution operations for merchandise, with nearly 30 full-time employees. In 2009–2010, the label had about $10 million in annual revenue. The recording studio for the label was called The Lotus Pod. History Establishment (1991– 1994) Following the release of their 1991 EP Bass-Ment Cuts, Detroit hip hop trio Inner City Posse, consisting of Violent J, Shaggy 2 Dope, and John Kickjazz (John Utsler), hired local record store owner Alex Abbiss as its manager. Taking the advice of Violent J's brother, Jumpsteady, the group and Abbiss agreed to create their own label. After debating between the names Mad Paperboy Records and Psychopathic Records, they decided on Psychopathic and the label soon started operating out of Abbiss's mother's basement. A drawing Joseph Utsler scribbled on a napkin, now known as the Hatchet Man, became the company's logo. Inner City Posse released their first professionally recorded album, Dog Beats, on the label later that year. Shortly after, the group underwent a change in style, look, and name to become Insane Clown Posse, and created the Dark Carnival concept that would be continued by much of the label's other artists for years to come. Esham and Kid Rock were paid to appear on the debut "Insane Clown Posse" album to increase the album's marketability. The group and their label began to gain moderate popularity in the Detroit area following the releases of Carnival of Carnage and Beverly Kills 50187, as well as through their extensive amount of independent promoting. Months before the release of Carnival of Carnage John Kickjazz left the group. Not wanting to show weakness early in the game, they replaced him with friend and fan Greez-e (Erik Olson). Greez-e's membership was short-lived however, and after appearing on Beverly Kills 50187 he left the group. ICP has remained a duo ever since. Fluctuation and expansion (1994–2000) Mike E. Clark was selected as the label's