Save Phonology: 20 Years at Risk

I'm Joell Hays. I started Phonology 20 years ago with the dream of bringing vinyl record pressing back to Chicago. That dream didn't happen, but another bloomed in the process. The artist space that came from my love of music and hopes of eventually reaching my vinyl dreams, instead gave rise to many truly unexpected life changing friendships and experiences.

Due to a long series of unfortunate events, including landlord changes, exorbitant property tax increases, and other surprises, I am now in real danger of losing everything that I built from scratch. Long story short, I need to raise $750,000.00, which will allow me to purchase the property that I have been renting for the last two decades. Shifting from renting to owning will also allow me to finally make the rest of my vision possible. Plans include improvements to existing studios, additional studios, incorporating video for content creation, adding audio recording options, and a large multi-purpose area for dance rehearsals, record release parties, private events, and more.

Your help will ensure that I can keep operating this space that means everything to me and so much to thousands of musicians who need a comfortable, fully equipped, venue style space to rehearse, write and create.