As we all know the vinyl record is gradually dying out in the US and very few are being pressed now a days. I know I am young, but I know for a fact that records were one of the biggest source of new music for people all over the country, especially DJ’s. Back then, when new music was released, people would not look for it on Itunes, on a cd, but they would look for them on old fashioned records and LPS’s. However, with the speed that technology is evolving, it seems that the record is being overtaken by digital downloads and mp3′s. I have nothing against those things personally seeing as how I use mp3′s and such. There are people though that would hate to have the record become an extinct form of providing music and its rarities, especially the DJ that prefers records over serato anyday.
In Southern California, The Beat Swapmeet has been formed to keep the record alive and striving as much as possible. What it really is is self-explanatory. It is basically a swapmeet that only carries records. It is not a store that you would find down Venice Boulevard either. It is a closed venue where vendors gather and sell or trade their records that they have collected over the years in an attempt to prolong the life of the old fashioned record. You necessarily dont have to buy records if you attend one of these swapmeets. You can just show up to check out some records, meet new people that have a passion for them as you possibly might, and make new friends and just relax. As of today, the Beat Swapmeet has been able to hold at least 5 or 6 events where people come and dig for some records.
Personally, I have been to a couple of these swapmeets and have had a great time there. Time just flies by in there and you dont notice until you come out and the sun is gone. As a turntablist, Ive gone in there empty handed and came out with at least a box of records everytime. Why? I love records. I think people have a tendency to have a passion or liking for all things original and scarce, records being on of those things. And thanks to this swapmeet, these record lovers dont have to worry so much about it going extinct, expecially the DJ’s who appreciate records. There are a lot of swapmeets in Los Angeles, but this has to be a one of a kind swapmeet. Another thing to add, this swapmeet doesnt just attract one certain group of people. When I have gone, I have a lot of people and all of them coming from different backgrounds and cultures. Young and old, male and female, record lovers and tourists, and children have gone. It is really a place for anyone.
Check them out at www.beatswapmeet.com
