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

Hi Connor, what do you attribute your success to?
The truth is, I can’t point at just one thing to explain the success of our business. Rather, it is a culmination of different factors working together to create the secret sauce that has led to four generations of ownership. Although, if I had to boil it down to just one ingredient..? It would have to be treating our staff members like family. Since opening our doors in 1953, My Great Grandfather, Val and after him, my Grandfather, Ken always preached that having a great relationship with staff members would make for a more enjoyable work environment. Over the fifteen years I’ve worked in this business I have seen this practice pay dividends. We have a highly motivated team that works exceptionally well together and that energy is infectious throughout the store, right down to our customers.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Grayson’s Tune Town is a family-owned historic music store founded in 1953, in Montrose, California. Val Grayson originally opened the shop selling records but later moved to selling fine instruments. Val’s excellent customer service is what set Grayson’s apart from the competition early on and his business morals are very much alive in the shop today.

Our collection of instruments primarily focuses on guitars from the biggest names in the industry including Fender, Gibson, Martin, Taylor, Gretsch, and more. Orchestra instruments alongside a folk & ukulele selection accompany our wide guitar selection. Lastly, our boutique pedal selection is one of the finest in all of Los Angeles!

Instruments aren’t all we focus on though – Grayson’s lesson program is the longest standing in Crescenta Valley. We believe in tailoring our lessons to each student’s needs so that every student can feel empowered to reach their full musical potential.

Last but certainly not least, Grayson’s has become a bright spot in fretted instrument repair. Professional Setups, Pickup Installations, and more draw the Los Angeles community to our store for quality instrument repair. Our staff focuses on exceptional quality while maintaining a quick turnaround time so that you have the instrument you need by showtime!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Alright so here’s our gameplan for the day:

1) Hike at Cherry Canyon
2) Coffee at Alfred’s
3) Hit Grayson’s to check out the newest gear
4) The Rose in Venice for lunch
5) Check out the beach & shops nearby
6) Laurel Hardware for dinner & drinks
7) Comedy show at the Comedy Store or hopefully a great act is playing at the Greek Theater that night
8) Late night cravings hit, head to the El Taquito Mexicano Mexicano in Pasadena for street tacos

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My grandfather, Ken, has been the most instrumental person in not only shaping my business acumen but further, a shining example of how to do good business while having a heart. His involvement in the surrounding community cannot be overstated and his influence in my personal and professional life will never be something that can be matched. Thank you, Grandpa, for all of your wisdom.

Website: www.graysonstunetown.com

Instagram: @graysonstunetown

Facebook: @graysonstunetown

Yelp: Grayson’s Tune Town

Image Credits
Personal Photo: Cha Cha Studio

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.