“My relationship with music has gone back ever since I can remember, sitting in the back of my mom’s car in my car seat. We blasted so many genres of music, but I particularly recognize the lyrics of “Torn” by Natalie Imbruglia. That was my ultimate jam for a good 2 years because I knew all the lyrics at 18 months old before I discovered another classic favorite. Though my mom and dad were into music while I was growing up, they never pushed it on me—I just took a liking to it, which then turned into loving and then needing.”
“My honest first introduction to vinyl was about 2 years ago, when my grandfather decided to show me his enormous storage of vinyl collecting dust in my grandparents’ basement (or I like to call it—his man cave). He too was in love with music as much as I am, and I’m forever grateful for that connection.
We went through his collection one by one, each of which had a significant story to go along with the tune. As I watched and listened to him relive his memories, I realized that vinyl will always be the most organic experience you can have with music.
Going through those records that afternoon was one of my fondest and favorite memories of my gramps before he passed a few months later. His collection was then given to me to expand on and to fill it with as much love and memories as possible.
After my initial introduction to vinyl, I was gifted my first turntable from Third Man Records in Detroit. This then started my curiosity in researching record stores around the city—little did I know there are fuck loads pretty much everywhere I turned!
My favorite Detroit record store that I’ve visited thus far and due for another visit is called People’s Records. I bought a few Nat King Cole records to add to my new collection because who doesn’t want to listen to that man sing? I was already familiar with his repertoire but experienced something new when placing the needle down on my own vinyl player. I felt a sigh of relief, I felt like a boss, I felt like gramps was right there with me.
My knowledge is slim thus far, but my appreciation is strong and I love learning new things about vinyl as I meet inspirational souls every day. If you’re ever in Detroit, please go check out Third Man Records in Cass Corridor, People’s Records, Rock City Records and so much more—you will not be disappointed by the spirit and collective love by so many people in this city for something so pure and real; music.”
—Jena Irene Asciutto
Jena Irene Asciutto’s debut full-length release Cold Fame arrives in stores on Friday, June 2 via Original 1265 Recordings.
