Record Store Day 2013: Brian ‘Frog’ Harris, owner of Songland Records, Canberra

Ahh, Record Store Day is here again (and for the rest of this monologue-I hate the word blog-let’s just refer to it as RSD okay?) It’s been an interesting ride so far. Different levels of passion shown by the retailers, the record companies….the public themselves….. no surprises there. Until last year that is. Last year was different: there was real traction for the first time. People were coming in to Songland saying (very genuinely) “Happy RSD!” This happened in all the other stores I spoke to and it may be a watershed moment for this great concept.

There’s a long way to go of course in really drilling down to reach the greater population-but we’re all starting to head in the same direction.

I, personally, believe this should be a celebration of all physical stores. In Australia that means the Indies AND Sanity AND JB Hi-Fi. That thought is not totally supported by some of my indie brothers, but I stand by it. Please note I didn’t mention the department and chain stores that have stocked (and whored) music over several decades. Y’know, the same places that have turned their backs on music now demand has changed. Very good riddance to them I say.

On a totally positive note, I’d like to congratulate the RSD Ambassador for Australia-Russell Morris. His album “Sharkmouth” was embraced by the indie stores and, as momentum slowly snowballed, AND with the help of good radio stations and their presenters, the album is THE success story of 2013-and it’s only the beginning of this tale. With the sales support and instore exposure of JB Hi-Fi, Sanity, even all the ABC shops, we can ALL take this record and turn it into the drawcard that appeals to the largest of record buying segments. Remember the people that bought “Whispering Jack, “Brothers In Arms”…..and “21”?

Record Store Day is a special day. It’s a unique opportunity to say to EVERYONE what we mean, and what we do. Enjoy!

Yours in volume and rhythm, ‘Frog’ Songland.