Meet Nettie Freed | Recording Studio Owner & Creative Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Nettie Freed and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nettie, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I chose a creative path because art has always been my way of connecting with and understanding the world. Growing up in Los Angeles, surrounded by the music and film industries (especially in professional recording studios), I felt a strong calling to work in the media and creative space from a young age. The link between visual and auditory media has always fascinated me, and it’s where my heart lies.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
In the creative field, I’ve learned that expectations can lead to planned disappointments, so I take things day by day. Earning anything worthwhile in business is never easy. While my musical background provided insights into media workings, starting my recording business involved facing various challenges. Despite assumptions that my journey might be smoother, being a female in a male-dominated space presented obstacles. Beyond financial challenges, I’ve worked hard not to compromise my spirit and feminine nature.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend comes to the Nashville area, I’d kick off the visit with a writing and recording session at my studio, Spellbound Recorders in Lebanon, close to Cedars of Lebanon State Park. In Nashville, our culinary interests will always start with authentic Southern cooking such as Prince’s Hot Chicken, or Arnold’s Meat and Three. We can’t miss guitar window shopping at Carter Vintage, Corner Music, Gruhn’s, and Jack’s Guitarcheology (also in Lebanon). And, of course, a visit to Anaconda Vintage and Grimey’s for vintage records and clothing. The music on Honky Tonk Tuesdays at the American Legion in East Nashville, or Robert’s Western World on Broadway to see Joe Fick on upright bass is essential. For a business lunch, Midtown Cafe is my go-to – it has fantastic food (especially the salads), and I always run into old friends there.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Selecting one person is tough because many have guided me in pursuing a creative career. I want to give a special shout-out to Fred Sokolow, a multi-talented mentor who introduced me to the records I dig and cherish. Without his unwavering support, I wouldn’t love music or understand my musical heritage as I do. This shout-out is dedicated to Fred for never giving up on me.

Website: www.spellboundrecorders.com

Instagram: @nettiefreed

Twitter: @Spellbound615

Facebook: www.facebook.com/spellboundrecorders

Image Credits
Photos by Artisan Imagery Nashville, Theo and Juliet, Music City Post