An iconic independent record shop in Southport is moving into bigger new premises.
Quicksilver Music, on Market Street, is moving into the former Karbon Kopy shop at 1 King Street, on the corner of King Street and Market Street.
The move is set to take place on Saturday, 6th April 2024, in another boost for the growing Southport Market Quarter.
The area has seen an increase in footfall and new businesses since the £1.4million transformation of Southport Market into a new food, drink and events venue in 2021.
Quicksilver Music has been a popular fixture in Southport town centre since it opened on Market Street, opposite the side of Southport Market, in July 2009.
Owner Dave Thornley is renowned for his extensive vinyl record collection, his brilliant Instagram videos, and his busy Record Store Day events – which often sees people queueing from as early as 4am.
He said: “There have been a few changes down Market Street over the years since we opened!
“I have seen Southport Market go through three incarnations.
“When I rocked up here 15 years ago, there were cobbled streets and gas lighting…
“All the shops along here have changed.
“What I would like to welcome people to is our new place, on the corner of King Street and Market Street.
The new site for Quicksilver Records in Southport
“We are soon going to be closing our current shop at 24 Market Street.
“I have got too much stock and too many customers for that small space.
“In April 2024 this will be the new Quicksilver Music!
“Look at the space we have in here! This is all for you.
“You will no longer be tripping over people looking for records. You will have space!”
“Me and my good lady are very excited,m but we are also nervous, we are putting a lot into this. It could make or break us.
“So please on Saturday 6th April 2024 we will open the doors, come along for the journey.
“Quicksilver Music, 2024, it is happening. Be there or be square!”
Read More: Southport Market Quarter Community launches new Facebook page to promote area
Dave Thornley opened Quicksilver Music in July 2009 after being made redundant, using his own guitars, records and CDs as stock.
He said: “I worked in record shops when I was younger and had always wanted to have my own shop.
“I sell Vinyl and CDs, mainly classic rock from the 60s and 70s, but also jazz, Blues, and Indie.
“I believe an Independent Record Shop is important in keeping our high street alive and diverse.
Dave Thornly, owner of Quicksilver Records in Southport
“It’s a great place to meet people with a passion for music, and find out about local gigs, and buy local bands music.
“You get the chance to physically look through albums and get personal recommendations, so you can pick something up you might never have done scrolling online.”
Dave describes the favourite part of his job as “discovering new music and chatting with customers”.
He said: “Vinyl has definitely made a welcome comeback over the last few years. There is nothing like having something tangible like a vinyl record in your hand, opening the sleeve, staring at the cover and reading the lyrics and putting the needle down on that first track. You attach memories to records, and an experience is created as you listen.”
“I regularly buy second-hand vinyl collections, which sometimes contain forgotten photos, letters and love notes tucked inside; some have been quite raunchy!
“Mike Badger, co-founder of The La’s, played in the shop on our very first Record Store Day event.
“Will from Echo & The Bunnymen often pops in, he actually bought a double neck guitar from me!
“We’ve also had book signings with Danny Thompson and visits from Steeleye Span too.”
Even when Quicksilver Music is closed it is making a statement, thanks to the eye-catching street art featuring legendary American gonzo journalist Hunter S. Thompson.
Dave said: “The fabulous graffiti of Hunter S.Thompson on the shop shutter was done during an Urban Art & Street Painting Festival in Southport in 2011.”
- Quicksilver Music is situated at 24 Market Street, Southport town centre, PR8 1HJ, phone: 01704 542939, visit: www.quicksilvermusic.co.uk
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