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On a chilly and rain-soaked day, I ventured into the welcoming embrace of Rainbow Records, a quaint store pulsating with the aroma of coffee and the rhythm of The Rolling Stones' "Monkey Man." The eccentric owner, John, added a touch of lively energy as he mimicked a monkey's antics, despite the apparent fatigue caused by his battle with Multiple Sclerosis.
Upon entering, the store revealed itself as a treasure trove for music aficionados. A colossal rack of used DVDs, ranging from classics like "Driving Miss Daisy" to the intense "Texas Chainsaw Massacre," dominated the space.
To the left, a shelf boasted an extensive collection of vinyl records, featuring artists from Abba to Rob Zombie. Simultaneously, the right side hosted a variety of CDs, catering to diverse musical tastes.
Engulfed by the eclectic ambiance, I was greeted by John, seated behind a cash register adorned with a sign stating, "No Personal Check." A conspicuous poster of Frank Zappa adorned the wall, hinting at John's passion for music.
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Despite his fatigue, later attributed to his MS, John exuded warmth and enthusiasm, creating an inviting atmosphere for customers.
Curiosity led me to explore the store further, prompting a conversation with Jack, John's employee. Jack, a tall and knowledgeable young man, guided me through the valuation process of used records. Holding a random vinyl from the shelf, he explained the meticulous checklist used at Rainbow Records: assessing the album sleeve's condition, identifying recording processes through labeling, and scrutinizing the vinyl for any imperfections under the light.
Jack emphasized the store's commitment to providing music for every budget, showcasing a dedication to inclusivity in their collection.
With newfound insights, I returned to John, who graciously offered a cup of coffee. Delving into the history of Rainbow Records, John shared that he was the fifth owner, having acquired the store in 1997 after its initial establishment in Park Ridge during the mid-1970s. Reflecting on his own musical journey, John revealed that "Surfin Safari" by The Beach Boys was the first record he purchased at the tender age of nine.
As the conversation unfolded, I inquired about the resurgence of vinyl sales while CD sales dwindled. John passionately expressed, "There is nothing like vinyl. It has a totally different sound than CDs or that MP3 stuff." He dismissed the idea of appreciating music solely through phones, emphasizing the unique auditory experience offered by vinyl records. When questioned about the store's music preferences, John confessed, "Classical, no one asks for it, so I don't want it. Besides, this is a rock and roll store."
Expressing concern for the younger generation, John asserted that those who haven't experienced vinyl are missing out on its profound, in-depth sound. He highlighted the artistic value of albums, from their cover art to the thoughtful arrangement of songs, arguing that these elements are unique to vinyl and absent in other formats.
Observing the sparseness of customers in the store, I questioned John about his motivation for entering the record business. He responded, "If you think about how much money you're going to make, that's a mistake. You're not going to get rich doing this. What you're doing is sharing your love of music with other people." A shared moment of understanding and a smile encapsulated the essence of Rainbow Records: a labor of love dedicated to fostering a shared appreciation for music.
Before bidding farewell, I perused the store, selecting three records that encapsulated the spirit of Rainbow Records. The choices, including The Rolling Stones' "Let It Bleed," The Beach Boys' "Surfin Safari," and Frank Zappa's "Over-Nite Sensation," garnered a chuckle from John as he rang them up. Handing me a bright yellow bag, he uttered a heartfelt "enjoy."
Back at home, the ritual of placing The Rolling Stones' record on the turntable, positioning the needle on "Monkey Man," and cranking the volume to eleven became a celebration of not just music but the unique experience offered by Rainbow Records.
Rainbow Records stands not only as a haven for music enthusiasts but also as a testament to the enduring allure of vinyl in an ever-evolving musical landscape. John's unwavering passion, despite the challenges posed by his health, infuses the store with a unique charm. In an era dominated by digital convenience, Rainbow Records remains a tangible reminder of the artistry and emotion encapsulated in each vinyl groove. As I reflect on the journey through this musical sanctuary, the words of John resonate: it's not about the money; it's about sharing the love of music.
Rainbow Records: A Journey into Vinyl Enthusiasm. (2017, Jan 11). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/re-interview-with-a-record-store-owner-essay
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