We were saddened to hear the news on Monday that the UK’s most famous record shop, HMV, is going into administration. Saddened, but not surprised. The writing was on the wall: if one ever wanted a bit of peace and quiet on Oxford Street in recent months, then the smart thing was to head for the HMV’s flagship store.
Even as I type I’m listening to Miles Kane’s 2012 E.P First of My Kind (that’s the sleeve below, shot in Walker’s Court, Soho), which I acquired not by making a trip to the HMV, but by a few clicks of the trackpad. And I’m playing it on the same device upon which I am typing. Changed days indeed. Most peculiar, mama.
As Beatles guide Richard P reminded us on Facebook earlier this week, HMV played a big part in the story of The Beatles. It was at the famous Oxford Street store that Brian Epstein was pointed in the direction of George Martin at Parlophone. And the rest is history. And quite a tasty walking tour, too.
Here’s the plaque from the old store…
… and here’s Nipper from the famous HMV ad…
… and here’s a link to Battersea Dog & Cat Home, should he find himself homeless on Oxford Street.
And here’s one from deep in my own collection – yes, I do vinyl as well as download. The classic theme from the immortal 60s TV pop show Ready, Ready, Go! on the HMV label…
And lastly… as per our blog post the other day: anyone with an unused HMV voucher (the administrators will not honor gift vouchers, the rotters) should bring it along to the Rock’n’Roll London Walk today and get a free walk.
Here’s our own Rock’n’Roll London video…
Join the Rock’n'Roll London Walk on
Friday at 2pm, meeting at Tottenham Court Road Station (Exit 3) –
to book a Private Walk call 020 7642 3978 or email [email protected]
A London Walk costs £9 – £7 concession. To join a London Walk, simply meet your guide at the designated tube station at the appointed time. Details of all London Walks can be found at www.walks.com.
