Rough Trade: Bringing Indie Music to the Heart of Manhattan
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While Rockefeller Center may be synonymous with holiday cheer, towering Christmas trees, and bustling ice skating rinks, a British institution is injecting a dose of counter-culture into this iconic NYC landmark. Rough Trade, the beloved record store chain known for championing independent music, is expanding its footprint in Manhattan. Come spring,they’ll triple the size of their Rockefeller Center location,transforming the former stationery store into a haven for vinyl enthusiasts,music lovers,and artists.
Similar to its UK counterparts, Rough Trade NYC is renowned for its intimate performances. These all-ages shows, often held in conjunction with album releases, offer fans an unparalleled prospect to connect with their musical heroes. Tickets? A simple purchase of a vinyl LP grants entry. “The fact that our in-store shows are all-ages, and admission is the price of the LP – it provides this egalitarian, civic service in a way,” explains Stephen Godfroy, Rough Trade co-owner. “It gives everybody that chance, that accessibility to meet their music heroes.”
Initially, Rough Trade’s American journey began in 2013 within a sprawling 15,000 sq ft Williamsburg warehouse. Though spacious, Godfroy felt the store lacked accessibility and struggled to connect with a broader audience. “It’s not just that the area is busy; it’s relatively easy to get to for a lot of people,” he says, reflecting on the decision to relocate. The move to Rockefeller Center has proved fruitful, witnessing a doubling in sales. Today, rough Trade NYC stands as a testament to the enduring allure of physical record stores, showcasing the magic that unfolds when independent music meets an accessible, welcoming space.
stepping inside, the atmosphere vibrates with musical energy. While surrounding shops pump out Top 40 hits, Rough Trade’s speakers pulsate with the ethereal soundscapes of Laurie Anderson.New releases from indie darlings like The Weather Station and zzzahara beckon from carefully curated shelves, inviting exploration. Every corner tells a story, reflecting Rough Trade’s dedication to nurturing independent music.
Rough Trade’s commitment to inclusivity extends beyond its regular programming. They host a free festival on Record Store Day each April, transforming Rockefeller Plaza into a vibrant stage for indie artists and DJs. From established acts like Green Day and Charli XCX to underground bands, Rough Trade proudly provides a platform for diverse voices, ensuring every musical genre finds a home.
One memory that lingers in Godfroy’s mind is the electrifying performance by hardcore punk band Incendiary. His passion for bringing such diverse music to the heart of Manhattan is palpable. Rough Trade’s presence in Rockefeller Center isn’t just a retail venture; it’s a cultural movement, proving that indie music, with its raw energy and creative spirit, belongs in the mainstream.
Rough Trade, known for its vibrant atmosphere and curated selection, isn’t afraid to buck trends. Their recent expansion into Midtown Manhattan, a district often perceived as sterile and tourist-heavy, exemplifies this spirit. “There’s kind of a mischievous, rebellious glee to doing that,” shared Rough Trade’s representative, highlighting their intent to disrupt the established narrative.
This bold move comes amidst predictions of the decline of brick-and-mortar stores, especially music retailers. Tower Records, once a giant in the industry, closed its doors nearly two decades ago. Yet, amidst the rise of digital streaming, Rough Trade recognizes a growing desire for deeper engagement with music. Their physical stores, brimming with curated collections and intimate events, offer a tangible connection that transcends the digital realm.”Record stores are poised to offer that experience,” emphasizes Rough Trade, highlighting their unique position.
However, the resurgence of vinyl hasn’t gone unnoticed. Major record labels,sensing the market shift,are increasingly selling LPs directly to consumers,turning from suppliers into competitors. This presents a unique challenge for independent stores, as they grapple with record pre-sales and exclusive limited editions offered by these industry giants.
The enduring Appeal of Record Stores
In the digital age, where music streaming dominates, the physical record store faces an ongoing battle for survival. Yet, for many enthusiasts and industry insiders, these brick-and-mortar spaces remain vital to the music community.For Kevin Godfroy, owner of a beloved independent record store, the value of these shops goes far beyond simple transactions. “The counter isn’t just this point of transaction,” he explains, “It’s a sharing of passion, and it’s a very symbiotic between our customers and our staff. We get recommended [music] by our customers as much as we recommend to our customers.”
this exchange of musical knowledge fosters a sense of community and connection among passionate listeners. Record stores offer a haven for superfans to delve deeper into their favorite artists and discover new sounds, connecting with enthusiasts who share their dedication.
While the financial rewards of running a record store may not be as considerable as other retail ventures, Godfroy emphasizes the profound satisfaction derived from nurturing this shared love of music. “It isn’t the most lucrative retail sector,” he admits, “But it’s still immensely satisfying, for ourselves as the business, and for our staff, to be, if you like, sharing that joy.”
The enduring presence of record stores speaks volumes about the enduring power of physical interaction and a shared love for music.They serve as vital hubs for revelation, connection, and ultimately, the celebration of the art form itself.
How do you see the role of physical record stores evolving in today’s shifting industry?
Interview Title: Rough Trade’s Rebellious Expansion: A Conversation with Co-Owner Stephen Godfroy
Interviewer (I): Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Stephen Godfroy, co-owner of Rough Trade, the iconic British record store chain that’s been shaking up the music scene in Manhattan.Welcome, Stephen!
Stephen Godfroy (SG): Thanks for having me. It’s great to be here.
I: your expansion into Rockefeller Center has been quite the hit.Tell us about the decision to move from Williamsburg to this bustling heart of Manhattan.
SG: Well, we loved our Williamsburg space, and it was great for discovering new music, but it lacked accessibility for a broader audience. Rockefeller Center, on the other hand, offers that accessibility. It’s centrally located, and the foot traffic is amazing. We believed that moving here would allow us to share our passion for independent music with an even more diverse crowd.
I: And it seems to have worked out quite well, with a doubling in sales. What would you say contributes most to Rough Trade’s success in this new location?
SG: I think it’s our commitment to curation and community. We strive to reflect the diverse music scene in our stores, and our all-ages shows and in-store performances give customers a unique experience thay can’t get online. Plus, being in a busy, iconic location like Rockefeller Center exposes us to a wider audience.
I: speaking of in-store performances, Rough Trade is renowned for these intimate gigs. Can you share a memorable moment from one of these shows?
SG: Oh, there are so many, but one that stands out is Incendiary’s performance. They’re a hardcore punk band, and seeing them absolutely destroy it in our intimate space was something else. The energy was palpable, and it was a great reminder of why we do what we do – to give these passionate, diverse artists a platform.
I: That’s fantastic. Now, Rough Trade has always been about supporting independent music. How do you see the role of physical record stores evolving in today’s shifting industry?
SG: I think physical stores still have a vital role to play, especially when it comes to fostering a sense of community around music. Yes, streaming is convenient, but there’s nothing like browsing and discovering new music in a store, and then sharing that experience with friends. we also offer a sense of discovery and curation that algorithms can’t match. And let’s not forget the tactile joy of holding a record, reading the liner notes, and appreciating the artwork.
I: Absolutely. Record Store Day is another fantastic Rough Trade initiative. Can you tell us more about that?
SG: Record Store Day is a celebration of independent record stores and the culture they create. It’s our chance to give back to the community by hosting a free festival with diverse musical performances. From Green Day to underground bands, we want to showcase the breadth and depth of independent music.
I: That’s truly commendable. stephen, what do you hope Rou
SG: It’s our mission to prove that independent music, with its raw energy and creative spirit, belongs in the mainstream. We want to challenge perceptions and show that there’s a place for diverse, passionate music in even the most iconic, commercially-driven spaces. Record stores aren’t just places to buy music; they’re cultural hubs, and we’re committed to keeping them that way.
I: Thank you, Stephen, for your inspiring words and for bringing your unique brand of musical counter-culture to the heart of Manhattan.
SG: My pleasure. Here’s to many more years of championing independent music!
