If you've been to a show at the New Parish in Oakland recently, you may have noticed a little record shop next door. Since Donovan and Jacinta opened Champion Sound Records last December, it's become a hotspot of musical activity on its own. Not only do they sell a mix of new and used vinyl, they often host record swap parties on the back patio with DJs spinning on weekends.
I met Donovan at one of the many swaps I've attended over the past couple years. He's been selling records independently for a long time, so opening up a brick & mortar seems like the natural progression. I'm just thrilled he did it in the neighborhood where I hang out most. Now there's always something going on and amazing musicians coming through this space, and I love it!
I've found many records I adore at Champion Sound - from Dr. John, Gary Bartz NTU Troop, and the Ramsey Lewis Trio, to name a few (yes, I do remember which shops I bought my records from). If you have any love for Latin/Funk/Soul/Jazz/Reggae/Hip Hop, you owe it to yourself to stop in.
Champion Sound Records is located at 1729 San Pablo Ave, Oakland, California