Whether you own a local smoke shop, grocery store, or auto mechanic shop–one thing is certain: being a local small business owner during this time is extremely worrisome. And while it may look like some business owners may have a much easier time maintaining their stay during the coronavirus (COVID-19), other not so fortunate owners have had to rely on creative ways in order to make ends meet, and not have to close their doors for good.
Unfortunately for Los Angeles, one of those stores happens to be the iconic independent record store chain, Amoeba Music.
Amoeba Music has been a powerhouse for years in the independent music community. The chain first opened up 30 years ago in Berkeley, CA, and since then has managed to open two more locations: the first being in San Francisco and the second in Los Angeles. Not only is the chain known for being an overall source for housing some of the most popular and rare records and albums to this day, but it has been extremely instrumental in influencing generations of audiophiles, by preserving and passing on music that has become deaf to the current trend of the time.
In a recent statement made by owners Prinz and Weinstein, “We have weathered many storms–9/11, recessions, the Internet, downloading and streaming. But we don’t know that we can weather the COVID-19 storm…all three of our stores have been closed since mid-March and must remain closed indefinitely. With no way to generate income, our savings are running out, with bills and rent coming due, and with a primary commitment to our staff, who we are trying to keep as healthy and financially sound as possible.”
If you would like to donate to help keep this iconic Los Angeles hot spot open, please click the link below.
https://www.gofundme.com/f/amoeba-music-needs-help-to-survive
Photo: Instagram
By Matt Koger
