Peaches Records: A Legendary Institution of New Orleans Music
New Orleans is a city steeped in musical history and tradition. From jazz to blues, funk to brass band, the city has produced some of the most influential musicians of all time. One of the most legendary institutions of New Orleans music is Peaches Records. In this post, we’ll explore the history and legacy of this iconic record store.
The Early Years
Peaches Records was founded in 1949 by Frank and Shirley Day. Originally located on Canal Street, the store sold sheet music and musical instruments but soon shifted focus to selling vinyl records. In the early days, Peaches Records catered to the city’s African American community, which was underserved by other local record stores.
By the 1970s, Peaches had expanded to several locations throughout New Orleans and had become one of the city’s most popular record stores. Peaches wasn’t just a place to buy records – it was a gathering place for the city’s music lovers. The store hosted in-store concerts and signings, and musicians often stopped by to check out the latest releases.
A Cultural Hub
Over the years, Peaches Records became synonymous with New Orleans music culture. The store’s walls were adorned with posters of local musicians and the latest album releases, providing inspiration and excitement for local musicians and music lovers alike. Peaches Records was more than just a store; it was a cultural hub that brought people together.
Peaches Records achieved national recognition in 1986 when Prince dedicated his album “Parade” to the store. Inspired by the store’s record selection and the city’s vibrant musical spirit, Prince credited Peaches Records as a significant influence in his music.
The Legacy Continues
In 2002, Peaches Records closed its doors, marking the end of an era in New Orleans music culture. However, in 2018, the store reopened in a new location on Magazine Street, near the original Canal Street location, keeping the legacy alive.
The new store, run by real estate developer Shirani Rea, continues the traditions established by Frank and Shirley Day in the 1940s. Today, Peaches Records remains a centerpiece of New Orleans music culture and showcases a broad range of music genres, reflecting the city’s diverse musical landscape. The new Peaches Records is not just a store; it is also a cultural center that hosts events, concerts, and signings.
Conclusion
Peaches Records is an institution that has played a significant role in New Orleans music culture. Through the years, it has served as a meeting place for music lovers and musicians alike, with its walls adorned with posters of local music legends. The legacy of Peaches Records continues to live on, as the new store once again is a hub for local music culture, fostering community spirit and the love of music that has always been at the heart of New Orleans.