28 years ago a teenaged Tracy Ross bought U2's The Joshua Tree on cassette tape at Murray's Terrapin Station. And so his love affair with music and all things Terrapin Station began. Membership Director Jenni Todd still remembers buying her first ever CD there (Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band), in 1994.
In the past 30 years, Terrapin Station has been a consistent and vital part of the local music scene and has built both an awareness of great music and a sense of shared community. WKMS Program Director Tracy Ross says, "It's amazing a town the size of Murray has a shop like this. They have survived the decline and rebirth of vinyl, and have been a huge part of my life for 3 decades."
Owners, Bob & Val, started Terrapin Station in their home before moving to the current location at 920 St. 12th Street in 1993. They say they still enjoy the personal experience visitors get at the shop. "It's a throwback to the listening booth days. You can pick up an album and play it on the record player. There's a warmth to it. Not just ones and zeros through your computer."
Bob & Val have been underwriting local music for programs on WKMS since 1987. On the station, they found a partner in eclectic music. "Whatever you're interested in, you can find it on WKMS. There's an expression of music across the board. Folks could hear artists on the station and then find the albums here at Terrapin. The show hosts are good customers, and very personal with their music. It's the best form of promotion that we have."
Celebrate their 30 year anniversary by visiting Terrapin for your first or 300th time this week for new & used records, CDs, books and more. Or leave them a comment and some good vibes on their Facebook page.
Congratulations, Terrapin Station!
