Memphis has always had music in its bones. From the soul-soaked grooves of Stax to the rock ‘n’ roll that shook Sun Studios, the 901 isn’t only part of music history. The 901 is music history. But today, that story is still being written (and pressed) thanks to Memphis Record Pressing (MRP), the largest vinyl record manufacturer in North America.
Founded by Brandon Seavers and Mark Yoshida, MRP began as a CD and DVD company back in the 90s. But after a call from Fat Possum Records in 2013 asking if they’d ever thought about pressing vinyl, the duo rolled the dice on an industry many thought was long gone. What followed is a homegrown success story that’s pure Memphis: full of grit, heart, and creative hustle.
“We went from pressing 880,000 LPs in 2015 to 15 million in 2023,” said Brandon Seavers, co-founder and CEO of MRP. “We didn’t even know how to press a record when we started. We just figured it out—and that’s very Memphis.”
What makes MRP such a perfect fit for Memphis?
We know Memphis has a music legacy, but we also have the logistics. The city’s central location and FedEx presence make it ideal for shipping vinyl to both coasts and beyond.
“If we were on the West Coast, shipping times would be three to five days. From Memphis, we can get anywhere in the country in one or two,” Brandon explained.
MRP is committed to being part of the city’s cultural and creative ecosystem. They employ over 300 Memphians, support local makers (shoutout to Dinstuhl’s Fine Candy Company and J. Brooks Coffee Roasters), and sponsor community organizations like Music Export Memphis and the Memphis Listening Lab.
"We’re investing in the city. We’re building something that reflects the creativity and grit of Memphis,” Brandon said.
A Tour Through Time, Talent & Turntables
The MRP facility itself is a living, breathing blend of old-school craftsmanship and high-tech innovation. Every vinyl record goes through a detailed process—from lacquer creation and electroplating to pressing and quality control—with a hands-on approach that keeps quality top-notch. Even as MRP has embraced automation to keep up with demand, the artistry remains.
“Every record that leaves here is a tangible connection between the artist and the fan,” Brandon said. “It’s a piece of art.”
And speaking of art: MRP is also working on original content like the “Amplified” and “We Are Music Makers” video series, spotlighting local artists and cultural icons. These shows aim to elevate Memphis stories and expand the city’s cultural influence well beyond state lines.
Pressing into the Future
Contrary to popular belief, vinyl’s comeback isn’t just due to boomers reliving the past. Gen Z is actually the fastest-growing group of vinyl buyers.
“For younger generations, vinyl isn’t nostalgic. It’s new,” Brandon said. “They’re discovering it for the first time, and they want an experience. Vinyl gives them that.”
That’s why MRP is about to launch an educational arm of their website to help customers and curious music lovers alike understand how records are made, how to use them, and why they matter. Whether you’re just starting your vinyl journey or already have crates full of LPs, MRP wants you to understand (and appreciate) the analog magic.
Advice for Young Creatives? Make Your Mark.
When asked what advice he’d give young creatives thinking about moving to Memphis, Brandon didn’t hold back:
“You can’t come to Memphis waiting for the city to change you. You come to Memphis to change it. You don’t need permission. Just start doing something great.”
MRP’s own journey started not with a polished business plan, but with a wild idea, some dusty machines from a defunct Brooklyn plant, and a whole lot of determination. Now they’re pressing up to 1.2 million records a month and helping reshape Memphis as a hub for music, arts, and innovation.
Where to Eat, According to Brandon
Because no Memphis story is complete without food, we had to ask: where does a vinyl mogul grab a bite?
Las Delicias – “Delicious. Antonio and his team cook a great taco.”
Taqueria La Guadalupana and Los Comales – If you’re after authentic tacos, these are must-visits.
Huey’s – Because sometimes, you just need a burger.
Erling Jensen – Brandon calls it his favorite restaurant in the world.
McEwen’s – For fine dining downtown and an incredible bourbon selection.
He didn’t name his favorite BBQ joint—“That’ll start a fight,” he laughed—but you can bet it’s somewhere deeply 901.
The Future? Even Brighter
As MRP looks ahead, its mission is threefold:
Promote vinyl as a format.
Grow Memphis Record Pressing as a brand.
Shine a spotlight on Memphis itself.
“We want people to know that this kind of creative excellence is happening in Memphis,” Brandon said. “We want to show that you don’t have to go to Nashville or LA. You can build something powerful right here.”
So next time you drop the needle on your favorite album, take a second to flip it over and check the label. If it was made at MRP, know that a piece of Memphis is spinning right along with it.
📍 Learn more at memphisvinyl.com and keep an eye out for their upcoming content series dropping soon.
🎧 Follow Memphis Record Pressing on social media for behind-the-scenes looks, artist features, and more.
