Students in Middle Tennessee State University’s recording industry program have taken their work from the classroom to the turntable. Match Records, a multi-genre, student-run record label housed in the Scott Borchetta College of Media and Entertainment, released its first vinyl record during the Match Showcase on April 28, at Hop Springs in Murfreesboro.
The milestone marks a significant evolution for the label, which provides student creators with hands-on experience in marketing, branding, promotion, and distribution for student artists. The new vinyl release features current students and Match alumni working in a variety of genres from indie pop-rock to rap and everything in between.
“This release is an important milestone because it gives students the opportunity to take a project all the way into a professional physical format,” said recording industry professor Frank Dremel. “It moves beyond simply releasing music digitally.”
Unlike digital releases, producing a vinyl record introduces additional layers of complexity, from sequencing and packaging to manufacturing logistics and detailed crediting.
Students involved in the project say those challenges made the experience even more valuable.
“It’s proof that Match can operate beyond the usual scope of a student-run record label,” said Caleb Villatoro, Match Records treasurer and a graduate student in recording arts and technology. “Vinyl requires committing to decisions early—financially, creatively and operationally. It marked a shift from running events to building something tangible and lasting.”
The project mirrors real-world label operations, requiring coordination across teams, adherence to deadlines and attention to detail, all essential skills for careers in the industry.
Even in today’s digital-first landscape, Dremel said vinyl continues to hold cultural and commercial relevance.
“It reflects a desire for music to feel more tangible and personal, especially when presentation and collectability are part of the appeal,” he said.
That tangible connection resonates strongly with the student artists featured on the record.
“I’m super stoked to have some of my own music pressed onto vinyl,” said Match artist Kyelen Arora. “As someone who collects records, this is a real milestone for me.”
The vinyl release highlights the diversity of talent within MTSU’s student artist community, with selections curated to represent a cohesive yet varied sound. The track list includes:
Side A
“Amen” by Caroline Bowling
“For David” by Raven Hinchey
“Still Goin’” by Legendary Nedge
“Standing Ovation” by sav.
Side B
“Never Get Old” by Tucker Wilson
“Can’t Fly” by Kyelen Arora
“Ready to Live” by Carter Elliot
The vinyl record can be purchased at Match events or directly from the student organization for $20. Match Records accepts Zelle and cash for payment. For more on MTSU’s Match Records, visit matchrecordsmusic.com.
