I Need That Record...

As my life is overwhelmed with an intensive course in Koine Greek, somehow I still find time to make it to the shows I desire... more or less.  A few weeks ago, my friend Amber and I went to see a documentary about the death (or possible survival of the independent record store.  One of the first jobs I ever had which turned into many wonderful relationships with co-workers was at an independent record store in DC, which has recently downsized from 5 stores to 1, so this film held a special place in my heart.   The film highlighted many of the reasons for the closing of these stores including:

-The rise in record sale prices caused by the fact that the 5 major record labels are being run by business men.  Consequently, record stores have no choice but to sell music at the astronomical price of $17 or $18 a disc.  

-Because of the rise in these prices, consumers frequently make the obvious choice to purchase music online (itunes or amazon) for about $10.  

-"Big Box" stores such as Wal-mart frequently take a voluntary price cut on music selling it for way under cost because they will make their money back on the impulse purchases (toaster ovens and yarn) that you'll grab on your way through the store.  

All of these elements combined have resulted in nearly 3000 independent stores have closed in the past decade.  Ultimately what's being lost with the closing of these stores is not only a place to purchase music but an important "third place" for many many people.  (The "third place" is a place where people spend their time that's not home or work.  For many it's a coffee shop, church, bar or whatever).  Smaller record stores frequently are able to provide their consumer with personalized service that could never be found in a Big Box store or online.  Being able to speak directly with the store owner or salesperson about what music they are listening to or what else I might like.  

This situation is not, however, unique to the music industry, it is happening with all sorts of small businesses around the country.  I would like to blame this issue on white collar businessmen who are raising the prices but ultimately it is the consumer who chooses to save money and shop online or at large chain stores that is causing this loss in business.   Sorry to end on a harsh note, but I do believe it's a reality we need to face in this crummy economic time.  

Take a moment and check out the trailer for this film