Greg Hall, the owner of Used Kids Records, has taken a significant step in preserving Columbus’s rich musical heritage by acquiring Musicol, a renowned recording studio and vinyl pressing plant located in North Linden. Hall, who has been a pivotal figure in the local music scene since purchasing Used Kids in 2014, finalized the acquisition on April 17, just before Record Store Day.

Preserving a Legacy

Musicol, founded in 1966 by John Hull and Boyd Niederlander, has been a cornerstone of the Columbus music scene for decades. Hall’s purchase ensures that this legacy institution, which has recorded artists ranging from Ric Ocasek to Bizzy Bone, will continue to thrive. Hall expressed his excitement about the acquisition, noting the importance of maintaining such a cultural beacon in the community.

With the acquisition, Hall aims to integrate Musicol’s operations with Used Kids, creating a seamless process from recording to retail. He has already made significant investments, including hiring additional staff to ramp up record production and undertaking physical renovations to refresh the facility.

Commitment to Analog

Hall’s passion for vinyl and analog sound is evident in his commitment to preserving Musicol’s vintage equipment, such as the 1944 Scully lathe and hand-operated Finebilt presses. He believes in the tactile experience of vinyl records, as highlighted in the book ‘The Revenge of Analog,’ which he frequently references. This dedication to analog resonates with Hall’s vision of engaging with physical media in a digital age.

Despite the challenges of taking over a business with a 60-year history, Hall remains undeterred. He credits his resilience to personal and professional experiences, as well as the support of a dedicated team at both Musicol and Used Kids. Hall’s leadership and vision are set to ensure that Musicol continues to be a vital part of Columbus’s music landscape.

Original reporting: Matter News (Columbus) — read the source article.