Exciting News for Vinyl Lovers in Columbia, SC!
Columbia, SC is buzzing with excitement as the beloved Papa Jazz Record Shoppe has officially reopened its doors following an extensive renovation! This charming store, nestled right across from Publico on Greene Street, has been a staple for music enthusiasts since it first hit the scene back in 1979. After undergoing some much-needed improvements since July, owner Tim Smith is thrilled to welcome back customers to enjoy a refreshed shopping experience.
A Little Bit of History
Papa Jazz has long been more than just a store; it’s a haven for music lovers looking to discover anything from soulful classics to the latest pop hits. “I was fortunate in my late teens to stumble into getting a job with what was my number one hobby,” Smith reminisces. “It’s kept me out of trouble for 45 years!” Talk about a success story!
The recent renovations aimed to enhance the shopping atmosphere. With new floors and sleek shelves, customers will now find it even easier to navigate through the thousands of vinyl records, CDs, tapes, and books on offer. From artists like Beyoncé to Charli XCX, there’s something here for everyone. And for those who adore the classics, fear not — the store is fully stocked across various genres, including rock, jazz, and country!
Weathering the Digital Storm
In a world dominated by streaming services, you might wonder how a shop like Papa Jazz stays in business. Surprisingly, Smith shares that the rise of digital music didn’t significantly affect their sales. “Most chain stores only offer Top-40 hits,” he explains, “but we have a much wider selection.” He believes that having a tangible choice plays a crucial role in attracting customers. “I’ve been around long enough to know when they used to say the radio was going to kill the record industry,” he adds, “but really, these things are as much advertising as they are a negative impact.”
As for the ever-evolving preferences of music lovers, Smith is convinced that fans love the unique sound of vinyl. He notes, “When people listen to a record, that’s all you’re doing. You’re totally focused on that because you have to get up and turn it over every 20 minutes or so.” Sounds like a delightful way to enjoy music!
Voices from the Community
USC student Aubrey Lemmon echoes Smith’s sentiments about the charm of physical music media. “It’s something that I care so deeply about. It’s really nice to be able to hold it there in the way it was originally made,” she shares enthusiastically. “I feel closer to the artist that way versus streaming it online. Having it physically is something so great.”
Looking Forward
With a vibrant community of music fans supporting it, Smith believes Papa Jazz Record Shoppe is set for another 45 years of success! The store is open for business Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. Whether you’re a vinyl fanatic or simply curious about the music scene, make sure to stop by and explore the treasure troves tucked away in this iconic store!
So, Columbia residents and visitors, if you’re in the area, grab your friends and head to Papa Jazz Record Shoppe — because there’s nothing quite like the magic of vinyl to make your day a little brighter!
