I’ve missed you TFF! We need to get re-aquainted after a long break.
I’ve been inspired to add a new series to TFF – shopping for vinyl records in Hong Kong. I’m not going to get into the why of records – if you collect vinyl, if you’ve found this post, if you’re interested in music, you probably already know.
I recently acquired a new turntable after several years without one and needed to get my hands on some records to re-build my collection. If this was 2001, or even better, 1991, I would have had a wealth of record stores to choose from in Hong Kong (music selection maybe not so great, but at least the stores would be easy to find). Sad to say it, but in 2011, records stores are not so easy to come by. Not only have independent music stores started to disappear but the ones that remain mostly limit their focus to CDs. The big chains – HMV and Hong Kong Records – carry a few records to cater to audiophiles, but have a limited selection focused on classical, jazz and some recent releases. Every once in a while you can find a gem, but it’s likely to be overpriced and, hey, it’s always better to buy a record at an independent shop rather than HMV.
This post, and the ones that follow, are intended to compile a somewhat up-to-date list of where to buy new and used records in Hong Kong. I’m going to focus on stores that carry what interests me – rock, folk and country from the 60s, 70s and 80s or more recent releases. If you have any suggestions or want to add to the list, please comment.
The first place to mention is Paul’s in Sham Shui Po. More after the break… I first came across mention of Paul’s on a few blogs here and here. And here’s a short profile of Paul from HK Magazine (scroll down to the “For the Record” section of the story). Paul’s “boutique” is actually a tiny apartment in Sham Shui Po filled with boxes and boxes of records. Paul himself is a friendly and chatty guy – in Cantonese and English – and, like anyone who has a hobby or obsession to this degree – is also a bit of a character (in the best sense of the word). When I arrived at his place there were three people inside. Given the number of boxes in the place, this meant I had to wait outside until at least one or two of them were finished. When I did get in, I spent a few minutes chatting with Paul, who directed me to a laminated photo of him from the early 90s, leathered out Blue Oyster-style and standing with a Hog (of the Harley variety). He used to be a big motorcycle guy, but sold his bike to focus on his record collection / record storage / shop. According to Paul, he has a couple hundred thousand records that he saves and will part with for a pretty reasonable price – average is about HKD40 a record. Paul directed me to a few piles/boxes and after about 30 minutes I had a decent pile of records to take with me – Bruce Springsteen, Chicago, ELO, George Harrison and even the Rocky IV soundtrack. The collection is eclectic – boxes of 80s hair metal, 70s glam, 80s dance and loads and loads of Canto-pop. It requires a fair bit of time, but with patience you’re likely to find a winner or two. All of the records I chose were in good condition but required a cleaning. If you contact Paul – by phone, as he doesn’t have a computer – he’ll search for the records you request.
Paul’s is a great place and worthy of my first post on vinyl shops in Hong Kong. More to follow soon.
Here’s Paul’s card with his number:
Address: above and here’s a photo of the building from the outside to help with directions once you get there:
