Contour Records was founded in 1994 by attorney and artists consultant, Keith R. McKinley, and vocalist and composer, Ruth Naomi Floyd. The label was born out of their shared passion for artists having complete artistic freedom to record their own works and collaborate with a diverse range of musicians.

From its inception, the label served as the recording platform for Ruth Naomi Floyd’s discography of music that explored themes of theology, social justice, and beauty in the language of jazz. The label has also served as a recording home for several musicians Ms. Floyd collaborates with who also defy genre boundaries and strive for musical excellence grounded in depth, integrity, and innovation. The label has proudly released recordings from flutist and composer. James Newton, pianist and composer, James Weidman and drummer and composer, Mark Prince.