In 1971, Ardent Studio moved from the National St. location into the building they occupy to this day, adding on several times. The Ardent label was established in late 1971. The label was formed as a joint effort between John Fry of Ardent Recording Studio and Al Bell of Stax to try to capture some of the white rock market. Ardent now consists of three music recording studios, that includes a contemporary Christian record label.

ZZ TOP
Most of what ZZ Top recorded prior to 1997 was laid down in Memphis (Tres Hombres, Tejas, Deguello, El Loco, Eliminator, etc.) at Ardent Studios. The unknown Texas blues band playing their first gig outside their home Texas performed at the 1971 Memphis Blues Festival while staying at the Linden Lodge (where Gibson Guitars and The Memphis Rock n Soul Museum is now located). During their stay they inked their first record deal at the Holiday Inn Rivermont, now the Rivermark Apartments, Ardent also filmed those videos full of HotRods and Memphis women.

©2002 Joe Terry

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