THE HISTORY OF RECORD STORE DAY
Hailed as "the single best thing that has ever happened" to independent record stores by Universal Music's sales manager, Marc Fayd'Herbe, Record Store Day 2018 will take place on Saturday, April 21st. The event began 11 years ago and was started by a small collective of record shop owners who felt it would bring consumer's attention back to old school vinyls.
Each year, independent stores all over the world participate in the day by selling special release records and CDs, promotional products, and offering sales on various inventory. It's also a great opportunity for them to host live bands and special performances to add to the day's exciting atmosphere.
A NEW START FOR A LEGENDARY LOCAL RECORD STORE
For one record lover, this year is shaping up to be quite different than the years prior. Tim Friedman has attended RSD events for years, but this will be his first time running the show as the new owner of Culture Clash Records, located on Secor Road, just north of W Sylvania. Oddly enough, Friedman spent last year's Record Store Day in the back office of Culture Clash, signing the purchase contract that would make his new journey official.
Pictured, Tim Friedman. All photos courtesy of Culture Clash Records.
It's an exciting, yet bittersweet, time for the business. The tragic passing of Pat O'Connor, Culture Clash Record's original owner, deeply affected many. Pat was very active in the community and a true advocate for the Toledo music scene. With the pressure to carry on a beloved legacy, and the build up to Record Store Day looming, you would expect Friedman to be a bit nervous. And yet, when I met with him earlier in the week, he seemed calm as could be. He spoke passionately about his love for music and the anticipation of RSD's new releases. He eagerly envisioned his fellow music lovers lining up at the door, waiting to get their hands on a coveted vinyl. Friedman also took the time to praise many local musicians, some of whom are scheduled to perform at Culture Clash on the 21st. He looked like a man who is exactly where he's supposed to be, doing exactly what he's meant to do.
Friedman humbly insists he's "in no way breaking the mold," as Culture Clash was a vital contributor long before he arrived. But he certainly deserves recognition for taking a risk and ensuring that the iconic Toledo business remained a home-away-from-home for those immersed in the local music scene. It's also clear that Friedman makes every effort to honor and uphold the legacy of Pat O'Connor while acting on behalf of the business. Friedman credits his employees with a considerable amount of the store's success in the last year. While spreading the word on Toledo City Paper's Best of Toledo 2017, he wrote, "[my employees] kept the store alive after losing a hero, and have become some of my favorite people while we have added our own fingerprints alongside Pat's. [Culture Clash] continues to be MY favorite record store in Toledo." It seems that he was far from alone in this sentiment, as Culture Clash ultimately won Best of Toledo's Local Record Store category.
RSD EVENTS The store will have exciting events going on all throughout Saturday. Boochy Mama, Holey Toledough, and Rusty's Road Trip will be available on site - and you can get a free Rusty's Classic Grilled Cheese with the purchase of any record. Those in attendance will be able to win a free swag bag if they're early enough, or they can score some merchandise during the 9:00 am- 1:00 pm sidewalk sales. For those who spend $100 or more, a 20% discount will be available during their next visit. Owens Community College will be in attendance doing a live broadcast over the school's radio station. Cleveland Country singer, Charles Hill Jr, Romeo, MI Folk singer, Libby DeCamp, and Waterville Indie Folk Band, Oliver Hazard, are all scheduled to perform.
This is something that Toledo music fanatics certainly won't want to miss! Make sure to check out their Facebook event for the full details.