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By Devon Jones
Music moves the body and soothes the soul. For some, rhythm is the purest form of self-expression. In this day and age, while originality fades into algorithmic sameness, artistry endures with purpose and pleasure. As culture and technology evolve, the value of music remains constant.
This is about music; furthermore, it’s about Wax Mage Records and their work to maintain the art of music in Cleveland and beyond. Often, the gems closest to us are not recognized
What are Wax Mage Records and Gotta Groove Records?
Wax Mage Records is a locally owned and operated record label and custom vinyl record pressing service in Cleveland’s Midtown Neighborhood. Founded in 2012 by Heath Gmucs while he was working at Gotta Groove Records. Working at Gotta Groove, Heath started with small custom record orders that quickly grew in size and frequency. By 2018, Wax Mage had become a signature product line of Gotta Groove Records, evolving into its custom printing department.
In the same year, Tyren Craemer and Heath Gmucs became official business partners, expanding Wax Mage into a record label. Their mission is to empower local artists. Heath and Tyren curate unique experiences through custom vinyl records and promotional services. Through this service, local artists can sell custom records in addition to standard vinyl records as part of their musical release plan.
How Do Vinyl Records Work?
Vinyl records can transport listeners. Depending on the decade you were born in, they can take you back to a time when things were simple and music was something you could feel: when art was physical, you could touch and feel it. As technology advances, the tacit elements of art fade, but vinyl records are making a powerful comeback.
Not only do vinyls move the listener, but the music itself moves physically, as explained by Everpresent:
“When you play a vinyl record, a needle (stylus) traces the tiny hills and valleys in the spiral groove on the record’s surface. As the needle moves, it vibrates. Those vibrations are converted by the cartridge into electrical signals, which are then amplified and sent to speakers, producing the sounds you hear.”
standing next to a vinyl record press machine.Credit Devon Jones
What Makes Wax Mage Records So Special?
Vinyl records once dominated the musical landscape, but now streaming and other sources of musical entertainment are more popular. For some artists and music lovers, however, the need to have a tacit connection to the creation has remained. Artists and fans brought vinyl records back, and they are more popular than ever.
To date, factories nationwide continue to press vinyl records by older groups such as The Beatles, a testament to the format’s lasting demand.
As this market has surged, Wax Mage Records developed a unique product unlike any other vinyl record printing service in the world by creating one-of-a-kind custom records designed to personify the artist and music. These custom-designed records are handcrafted and then mass-produced.
Wax Mage Records and Gotta Groove Records operate an industry-standard vinyl manufacturing process, ensuring that every record they press is both appealing and built to last. But beyond the process, it’s their commitment to creativity, community, and Cleveland’s musical soul that sets them apart. Whether you’re an artist looking to release your next project, or a listener who loves music you can hold, Wax Mage has what you need and is here to stay.
More About the Owners
As a local business, Wax Mage Records emerged from humble beginnings. Neither owner intended to land in this profession, but they have always had a connection to music.
Heath was born and raised in Cleveland and came from a musical family where everyone played instruments. As a result, Heath followed suit and became a professional musician. When asked what music could do for the world, Heath said:
“Music connects people. When you have something to relate to other people with it’s powerful. Different genres can speak at different times and experiences in people’s lives.”
Tyren Craemer, known as Ty, was born and raised in Orrville, OH. Ty came from a family of dairy farmers but always had a passion for music. When asked what music could do for the world, Ty said:
“Art is a connecting factor. The incorporeal nature of art connects people and creates a unique experience for each person. The intention behind the music tends to be inconsequential in comparison to the experience it brings.”
Call to Action: Support the Art. Celebrate the Process. Join the Movement.
In a world that moves fast and often forgets its roots, Wax Mage Records reminds us that music is more than sound—it’s a shared experience, a crafted story, and a tangible piece of culture. Whether you’re an artist seeking to elevate your next release or a listener craving something real, your support helps keep this legacy alive.
So, the next time you’re choosing how to experience music, consider doing it with intention. Explore Wax Mage. Buy the record. Hold the art in your hands, because here in Cleveland, artistry still matters, and Wax Mage Records is here to stay.
