What are the defining features of your store?
Northside Records is the Soul of Melbourne.
What’s your store’s history?
For over 13 years now, Northside has represented soul to its fullest ability. We have hosted many wonderful local and international soul bands that have super fun in-store performances.
If your store could be personified as one musical identity, living or dead, who would it be?
Antonio Fargas walking in the film I’m Gonna Git You Sucka.
How will you be celebrating Record Store Day?
Paul Kelly presents The Merri Soul Sessions; Emma Donovan and The Putbacks. Live music, all day long. There’ll be performances by drummers Ivan Choi (with full band) pimping his new 7”. John Farris (INXS) will be performing his new solo Disco 7”, that features vocals by Sir Viv Richards. There’ll be DJs throughout the day, and we’re represented by Melbourne’s female selectors, including MZ Rizk, Systa BB, Miss Goldie, Lyndelle Wilkinson, Ms Butt and Emma Peel. We’ve also got a t-shirt collaboration with Burn and the new Diggin’ Melbourne map will be launched, which is a map of all the independent record stores in this little town. Northside exclusives: Dizz1’s new album, John Farris’s 7” and Ivan Choi’s 7”.
What makes records so special?
Records are a show of respect to the artist that you are telling them you like their art.
Why do you think records have continued to endure?
They are very durable. That’s why.
What’s the most obscure record you’ve ever sold and why?
It’s too obscure to mention. Maybe though The Mingering Mike 7”. He was a funny man in the ‘70s who created 100’s of fictional record sleeves. All in the ‘70s blaxploitation style. They were discovered recently in a flea market and he rose to prominence. He recorded a song back then of him singing and his cousin hitting his afro pick on his leg for the music. It got pressed.
What’s the best thing about Diggin’ Melbourne?
It is a map that tells people about the great culture of music that we celebrate in Melbourne. We have many and varied record stores and a trip to them makes your day ace.
What’s your fondest memory involving a record?
I don’t funk and tell.
