This is a part of our Q+A series. Know someone we should interview? Nominate them here.
From the outside, Gibson Garage looks like your average Music City guitar shop. But inside, it’s a resource for seasoned + aspiring musicians. We touched base with Retail Director Jordan Sromek to learn more about the new space’s offerings + community-centered focus as well as some great music recommendations.
What’s your name, title, and 3-5 things you want people to know about you?
Jordan Sromek, Retail Director for Gibson Garage. My background is in retail — most recently serving as general manager of Tom Ford in NYC — but this is my first experience working in the music industry. My wife and I are new to Nashville, having moved here in February with our 9-year-old and 4-year-old sons. We are absolutely loving it! My favorite music era is ‘90s grunge (favorite band: Pearl Jam).
Tell us some background behind Gibson Garage. What are you most excited about?
The Gibson Garage opened in June, around the time that Nashville first “re-opened” from the pandemic. The Gibson Garage is the ultimate guitar and music experience, including its state-of-the-art stage for live and virtual live streaming concert performances, which I’m really excited about as we develop programming for the coming year.
Tell us why Gibson Garage is different from other musician spaces?
Not only is the Gibson Garage unique in its historic location at Cummins Station, but there’s also truly nothing quite like experiencing the space in person, from the 200 guitars rotating around the ceiling on a conveyor belt or the Murphy Lab where people can create their custom dream guitar. Whether you are a seasoned professional musician, a casual guitar player, a beginner, or simply a music fan, the Gibson Garage is a must-see destination in Nashville. Fans can try all our guitars across brands and collections as well as take a piece of history home with one-of-a-kind, in-store offers on limited-edition guitars, instruments, gear, accessories and exclusive Gibson apparel.
What inspired the hands-on, community aspect of Gibson Garage?
The Gibson brand has a long history in Music City and has always prioritized giving back and helping musicians not just in Nashville but around the world. Gibson Gives is the brand’s nonprofit that supports musicians worldwide and is committed to making the world a better place by creating and supporting other non-profit organizations in their efforts to advance musicians as well as youth-focused education and wellness initiatives.
Do you play instruments? And if so, which one(s)?
None currently, so I fall into that category of future guitar player. What better place to learn than the Gibson Garage?!
What’s your favorite album?
“Ten” by Pearl Jam
If you were writing a song about Nashville, what would your first line be?
“Stumbled back onto Broadway — music playing, drink in hand… again…"
What three people (living or dead) would you invite for a jam sesh at Gibson Garage?
Jimi Hendrix, Eddie Van Halen + George Harrison
Name 3-5 other local leaders/influencers/movers + shakers in this industry you’re watching.
I am keeping an eye on J.D. Simo and Bones Owens and am excited to see what’s next. It continues to be a challenging step forward, given the factors of the ongoing pandemic. We’re seeing how venues and concerts operate and how we can be a part of that fan and artist re-engagement and support while keeping safety at the forefront.
