A hyper-realistic, larger-than-life mural of some of the most notable names in the history of Capricorn Sound Studios now adorns a wall in downtown Macon.
The 700-square-foot mural, designed and painted by North Carolina-based graffiti/mural artist Jeks, features Capricorn co-founder Phil Walden and the legendary Duane and Gregg Allman, for whom the Allman Brothers Band is named.
It’s located in the alley between the Lofts at Capricorn and the newly renovated studio, now known as Mercer Music at Capricorn. In addition to two recording studios, the complex now also includes a museum, music incubator, and offices and meeting space.
“Phil brought Duane to Macon in 1969 and charged him with forming a band. Duane convinced his brother to leave California and join him in Macon,” Larry Brumley, Mercer University’s senior vice president for marketing communications and chief of staff, said in a news release. “The Allman Brothers Band was a magnet for other bands like Wet Willie to record at Capricorn.
“So I think it’s entirely fitting that the artist focused on these three principal characters in his mural. Capricorn Sound Studios likely would not have achieved the success it did without Phil Walden and Duane and Gregg Allman.”
Sierra Development Group, owner and developer of the Lofts at Capricorn, and Argus Eyed Partners, commissioned the mural.
Jeks said Jim Daws, president of Sierra Development Group, came to him with the idea of a mural possibly honoring Walden, Duane Allman and the legacy of Capricorn Records.
“The mural design eventually included Gregg to form the trifecta of Southern rock pioneers we were looking for,” he said.
Jeks began to work on the mural July 25, and it took several days to complete. It’s his second piece of work in Macon; he recently painted a mural of hometown legend Little Richard at The Society Garden.
“I’ve learned that Macon is very rich in music history, especially rock ‘n’ roll,” Jeks said. “Being a rock/metal musician myself, music is a huge part of my life, so I’m drawn to painting subjects in that realm.”
Jeks has painted hundreds of walls across the U.S., Colombia and Canada.
“I travel a lot painting murals, and I vibe off whatever city I’m in. Macon has shown me a lot of love, and I enjoy showing it back.”
Jeks said he hopes Macon residents and visitors will welcome and love his mural.
“Many of my paintings have become cultural landmarks in the cities that they are in, and I hope this wall becomes one as well,” he said.
