Record Renaissance: Gar Ragland of Citizen Vinyl
Since its opening in October 2020, Citizen Vinyl has become a melodic hub for artists, music lovers, and the curious alike. Located in the former Asheville Citizen-Times building on O. Henry Avenue, across from the Grove Arcade in downtown, the property itself has become a beacon of creativity and connectivity. Inside is a full-scale record manufacturing facility, where vinyl albums are popping off the production line at a furious pace. It’s another indicator of the rising popularity and incredible full circle moment currently underway for vinyl records — once a dusty memory of the past, now part of the future of the music industry.
Renaissance of Vinyl Records
The massive property also features Session (bar/cafe), Coda: Analog Art & Sound (immersive art gallery/record store), and Citizen Studios (WWNC-AM radio’s former broadcast station, now an in-house recording and mastering facility. And at the helm of this ever-evolving project is Gar Ragland.
Gar Ragland: A Musical Journey
A longtime professional musician, record producer, and label head, Ragland brought WWNC’s legendary Studio A back to life. The studio is a sacred space, one where countless musicians performed decades ago, including the first on-air performance by the “Father of Bluegrass” himself, Bill Monroe, in 1939. In celebration of Record Store Day.
A Chat with Gar Ragland
In an exclusive interview with Ragland shared insights on his love of records, the significance of immersing oneself in an album, and where Citizen Vinyl stands amid this record renaissance.
Q&A Highlights
When asked about his fond memories of record stores, Ragland reminisced about his early vinyl purchases with his father in Winston-Salem. He highlighted the tactile, communal, in-person, and analog experience of brick-and-mortar record shopping amidst our digital society.
Community and Creativity
Ragland emphasized the importance of record stores as cultural landmarks that bring people together and celebrate a shared passion for music. Citizen Vinyl, with its diverse offerings and historic recording studio, aims to inspire and foster new creative energy rooted in the area’s rich history of music, craft, and manufacturing.
Immersing in the Dream
Stepping into Citizen Vinyl, Ragland feels most alive when the space is bustling with creative energy. The goal is to inspire people and cultivate a palpable creative atmosphere that celebrates the art of music on vinyl records.
Supporting the Vinyl Culture
As Citizen Vinyl continues to evolve and shape the landscape of music production and appreciation, it serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of vinyl records in today’s digital age. The property stands as a testament to the revival and reinvention of the record store experience, offering a unique blend of history, art, and community.
Stay Tuned for More
With an unwavering commitment to authenticity, creativity, and inclusivity, Citizen Vinyl is poised to remain a cultural touchstone in Asheville and beyond. As the record renaissance gathers momentum, Gar Ragland and his team continue to redefine the boundaries of music production and consumption in the modern era.
