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Reviving Downtown Rogers: Inside The Music Depot with Anthony Ball and Reggie James
Manage episode 489081453 series 3295114
About the Show:
"If we don't talk about these stories, it's like it never happened."
- Anthony Ball
In this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn visits The Music Depot in Downtown Rogers for an engaging conversation with Anthony Ball and Reggie James, co-owners of The Music Depot and leaders of the nonprofit Music Moves. Both accomplished musicians and passionate community builders, Anthony and Reggie share the inspiring story behind their venue and reveal how they're reshaping the region's cultural landscape one performance at a time.
Randy, Anthony, and Reggie discuss how The Music Depot emerged from their vision to establish a permanent space where music, culture, education, and community events could flourish under one roof. This innovative venue is filling a crucial gap in Northwest Arkansas's growing arts scene.
From live band karaoke and jazz jam nights to educational workshops and kids' camps, The Music Depot is quickly becoming a hub for artists, music lovers, and neighbors from all walks of life. The space represents something unique in the region—a place where musical boundaries dissolve and community connections form naturally.
You'll also hear about Music Moves' broader mission to celebrate Black music and culture in the region, create opportunities for youth, and build bridges across towns like Rogers, Fayetteville, Bentonville, Springdale, and beyond. Anthony and Reggie share powerful stories about the transformative impact music can have on young lives and entire communities.
Whether you're a performer looking for your next stage, a parent seeking creative opportunities for your kids, or someone who believes in the power of music to unite communities, this episode reveals how two visionaries are building something extraordinary in the heart of Northwest Arkansas.
Key Takeaways:
- The Music Depot is a new cultural hub in Downtown Rogers, offering live music, karaoke with a live band, comedy nights, and community events.
- Music Moves hosts programs that connect students, professionals, and audiences—including jazz and blues nights open to all ages and skill levels.
- The Depot’s summer camps and engineering workshops provide vital exposure to music and technical skills, preparing youth for careers in the growing local arts scene.
- Local businesses and community groups can rent The Music Depot for special events, team-building activities, and more.
- Partnerships with local organizations are helping Northwest Arkansas punch above its weight in arts and culture, offering big-city talent with small-town heart.
All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.
Important Links and Mentions on the Show*
- The Music Depot (visit or contact for events and rentals)
- Music Moves – Website: musicmovesar.com | Instagram: @musicmovesar
- Email Anthony or Reggie at: [email protected] or [email protected]
- Funk Factory (Anthony’s band)
- Jazz/Blues Jam & Karaoke with Live Band – Fridays and Thursdays at The Music Depot
- City of Rogers
- Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce
- Herman’s Ribhouse (food partner at The Music Depot)
- Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
- JJ’s Live, George’s Majestic Lounge, The AMP, & The Momentary (local music venues mentioned)
- Frisco Kid (local comedian and host of comedy nights at The Music Depot)
- Ultra Suede (another local music group)
- FindItNWA.com NWA’s Hyperlocal Business Directory
This episode is sponsored by*
(Sponsored by)
Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"
*Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.
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Thank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks.
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Mentioned in this episode:
Winetopia 2025
We’re back at the barn! Winetopia is THE annual event that highlights the best of what our NWA Community has to offer, and we are thrilled to be back at the Barn at the Stonebreaker this year! Winetopia is where you can taste incredible top-tier wine, local craft beer, top-shelf bourbon, a variety of other spirits from our favorite local distilleries, AND hand-crafted mocktails. A specially-selected menu from Stonebreaker catering and our favorite Mia Tarts round out the evening! A ticket is all you need to access one of the most special nights of the year. Your favorite features from Winetopia will be there - the famous wine toss with Carny in the Corner, DJ Shortfuze spinning smooth tracks all night long, and the best silent auction around! You’ve been waiting all year for this event, and it’s now around the corner! We cannot wait to see you there!
Apple Seeds An Evening at the Farm, Saturday, October 11th, 2025
Evening at the Farm is a celebration of community and togetherness. Gather with friends, family, and fellow food enthusiasts for a memorable farm-to-table meal. What began as a small gathering has grown into one of our most beloved traditions, celebrating the flavors of the season and the community that makes it all possible. By attending this event, you'll not only treat yourself to an unforgettable culinary experience but also support our mission to empower and nourish our community.
FindItNWA.com
Looking to discover the best local businesses in Northwest Arkansas? 🌟 From cozy cafes to essential services, FindItNWA.com has got you covered. Connect with your local community with just one click and explore something great. Visit finditnwa.com today! #LocalBusiness #CommunitySupport"
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