All things must pass (Documentary)

The rise and fall of Tower Records.

I have watched this video documentary at least two or three times; and each time I watch it, I learn something new. This documentary outlines the chronological growth and demise of a once, colossal mega-music store where, for decades, millions of people bought their vinyl LP and 45 records, cassettes, and CD’s. Then one day, it all disappeared.

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In all honesty, I had never walked into a Tower Records music store. The closest one to where I grew up in Southeastern Wisconsin, would have been in downtown Chicago. Well, that store didn’t open until 1991, and I already been living in Orlando, Florida since 1988.

Growing up in Wisconsin, we went to the malls or to the local record stores like Zayre’s, Musicland, Mainstream Music or Peaches Records and Tapes to buy our music. If there was a Tower Records in or around Milwaukee, I didn’t know about it.

I knew about Tower Records, but I never really knew just how big it had grown. I didn’t know about the history of the store, but I kind of remember learning about its origins in California.

This documentary is a fantastic history lesson for those who would like to know more about just how big the music and record industry truly was from the 1950’s to the early 2000’s.

So many music-listeners from my generation, remember the days of being able to walk into a music store, long before the MTV days; and perusing the latest albums and 45 singles. It was like a candy store for people who loved their music. This was a culture that lasted for decades. Then one day, it was gone.

If you’ve got an hour and a half to spare, watch this documentary and learn a little about the rise and fall of Tower Records. I think you’ll enjoy it.