The label's first release in March 1986 was Deep Six (CZ001), a compilation LP featuring early grunge bands Soundgarden, Melvins, Green River, Skin Yard, Malfunkshun, and The U-Men.

In 1989, House began working as director of sales for newly-formed Seattle independent record label Sub Pop.

Eventually he left C/Z Records, and subsequently released early albums and singles by The Presidents of the United States of America, Melvins, Built to Spill, 7 Year Bitch, The Gits, Silkworm and Hammerbox.

In 1996, BMG-owned Zoo Entertainment partnered with C/Z, providing an operating and recording budget and assisting in the development of new artists.

Daniel House subsequently returned C/Z to part-time status, releasing only occasional records on an infrequent basis.