On the record: Mark Michaels adapts to a changing industry

When Mark Michaels bought United Record Pressing in 2007, things looked a lot different for the vinyl record industry than they do now. At the time, CDs and digital downloads were killing record sales. The market for vinyl was anachronistic, limited to the hardcore music fans (a group that definitely includes Michaels), collectors, DJs and rap artists.

Even so, URP turned 75 in 2024. Since he took the helm, Michaels has navigated the company through a changing industry. His accomplishments include overseeing not one, but two, facility expansions – and as a result, solidifying its position in Nashville for the long term. When the company celebrated its 75th anniversary in the fall of 2024, it did so with a party where Mayor Freddie O’Connell DJed, illustrating just how intertwined Nashville and URP are.

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United Record Pressing — Photo: Angelina Castillo

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Leaders 2025

On the record: Mark Michaels adapts to a changing industry

United Record Pressing CEO maintains lengthy tenure at North America's largest historic pressing plant

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