WACONIA, Minn. — Waconia-based musician, producer and recording engineer Gary Spencer was recently recognized by the Midwest Country Music Organization during its annual awards show on Saturday, May 2, at the La Crosse Center in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Spencer received the 2025 Studio Engineer of the Year award and also contributed to the Collaboration of the Year-winning project.
After three consecutive years of nominations through the Midwest Country Music Organization awards process, Spencer was honored with the 2025 Studio Engineer of the Year award, recognizing his ongoing work and reputation within the regional country and independent music community.
Operating out of his home-based recording space, Wildhurst Studio in Waconia, Spencer has spent years working behind the scenes with regional artists through recording, production, live performance support and creative collaboration. In addition to his engineering and production work, Spencer continues to perform as a drummer throughout the Midwest country and independent music scene.
“What means the most to me is the relationships and trust that have come from working with great artists and musicians over the years,” said Spencer. “This recognition is incredibly encouraging and makes me excited for what’s ahead.”
Spencer’s path into production and engineering grew out of more than two decades as a performing musician. His work focuses on helping artists create authentic and emotionally impactful recordings across country, rock and independent music genres while continuing to support the growth of the Midwest music community.
Beyond his current work, Spencer is developing a long-term vision to expand Wildhurst Studio into a larger destination recording facility and creative space based in the Waconia area. The goal is to create an inspiring environment where artists can record, collaborate and develop projects at a professional level while helping position the Waconia area as a creative destination for musicians and artists from across the Midwest and beyond.
“There are so many talented artists, musicians, songwriters and creatives throughout this region,” Spencer said. “I’m grateful to be a small part of it and excited to keep building something meaningful here in Minnesota.”
The annual Midwest Country Music Organization awards event brought together artists, musicians, songwriters, producers, radio personalities and industry professionals from across the Midwest to celebrate achievements within the regional country music community. The evening featured live performances throughout the show while recognizing music released and produced during the organization’s eligibility year.
The Midwest Country Music Organization supports independent country artists and music professionals throughout the region through networking, promotion, live events and annual awards recognition. The awards process includes public and member nominations followed by organization and community voting to determine finalists and winners across multiple music and industry categories.
Website: www.wildhurststudio.com
Instagram: instagram.com/wildhurststudio
Instagram: instagram.com/gspencerdrums
Facebook: facebook.com/wildhurststudio
Facebook: facebook.com/garyspencerdrums
Email: wildhurststudio@gmail.com
Phone: 612.567.8252
Midwest Country Music Organization:
Website: midwestcountrymusic.org
Facebook: facebook.com/MidwestCMO
