Aria

By Jordan Carter, March 10, 2026

ARIA

In the world of music, few experiences rival the magic of stepping into a local music store. These havens for musicians and audiophiles alike are where passion meets expertise, and each visit offers a chance to discover something new—a rare record, an obscure band, or even an entire genre that could shift your musical perspective. In this post, I want to celebrate the valuable relationships we build with the people who run these music stores and how they enrich our lives through their passion and knowledge.

Rediscovering My Musical Roots

Reflecting on my own musical journey, I recall a time when I was deeply invested in building an extensive CD collection. During my stint in Belgium before moving to Boston, my purchases frequently amounted to thousands of dollars, resulting in a treasure trove of over a thousand CDs acquired in just a few years. Half of that collection remains in Belgium, while the other half made its way to my teaching studio in the States, thanks to my father.

Those years were formative as I dived into various styles and sounds, nurturing my growing affinity for both popular mainstream acts and underground legends. I became enamored with the discographies of numerous artists, collecting albums from legendary bands like:

Rush
Led Zeppelin
Judas Priest
The Beatles
Jeff Beck
Dream Theater
Artension
Badlands
Chopin (whose works were compiled on disc)
Igor Stravinsky (the complete works)
Steve Vai
Joe Satriani
Greg Howe
Boston
Dire Straits
Cairo
Cream
Charlie Christian
Jimi Hendrix
Helloween
Fates Warning
Guns N Roses
Journey
Eric Johnson
Steve Morse
Living Colour
Steely Dan
and many more.

The Role of Music Stores

My passion for music was undoubtedly fueled by the interactions I had at various music stores, especially one fondly remembered as “Music Mania,” later renamed “Pop Center,” located in Kortrijk, West Flanders, Belgium. It was here that I spent countless hours exploring the record aisles, often conversing with the store owner, Jacques Merlevede.

Jacques is not just a shop owner; he is a cultural figure in Kortrijk, known for his dedication to keeping the spirit of his record store alive despite the challenges faced by the music retail industry in recent years. He specialized in rock, progressive rock, and metal, with a unique ability to source even the most obscure jazz, blues, and classical albums. His breadth of knowledge and passion profoundly impacted my musical education. With every discovery, he introduced me to new artists and sounds, significantly broadening my appreciation for music.

While some may cynically argue that his recommendations were simply a business tactic to increase sales, there is a significant difference between a salesperson and a passionate music enthusiast. As with any profession, authenticity matters. Passionate store owners like Jacques do not just push products; they genuinely care about enriching their customers’ musical experiences. The true art of customer service lies in the connection made through shared interests and knowledge, which is the backbone of music culture.

A Personal Journey Through Music

Praise must be given where it’s deserved. Jacques remains a pivotal figure in my musical journey; his influence has allowed me to explore the depths of genres I might never have approached without his guidance. As I sought to complete my collections from various bands, it was Jacques who expertly curated and introduced me to remarkable yet lesser-known acts such as:

Artension
Budgie
Gentle Giant
Focus
Genesis
Glen Hughes
WigWam
UFO
UK
Tygers of Pan Tang
Robin Trower
Triumph
Superior
Cairo
Mahogany Rush
Medalyon
King Crimson

These experiences sharpened my musical palate and solidified my admiration for those who work at music stores. They dedicate their lives to sharing their knowledge, not merely for profit but out of a sincere eagerness to spread the joy of music.

Exploring the Best Music Stores

This brings me to a fascinating article I recently found on BuzzFeed discussing the top 27 record stores you must shop at before you die. The piece sparked nostalgic memories of my time spent in music stores and further affirmed my appreciation for places reminiscent of Jacques’s Pop Center.

Underrated Gems

Despite its impact, Jacques’s store seems to be overlooked in many discussions about must-visit music retailers. However, it deserves mention as part of the conversation. The people who own and operate these spaces offer more than just products; they create a community and foster an appreciation for music.

If you find yourself curious or want to explore this ranking of infamous record stores, you can read more about ARIA’s contributions to the world of music stores and the culture surrounding them.

Conclusion

Connecting with fellow music lovers, whether through virtual platforms or in person, is a vital aspect of any musician’s journey. While I have moved on from my beloved Belgian record haunts, the bond created with Jacques remains strong. If you have any favorite music stores that should be on the radar—or any questions regarding music, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments.

While online lessons and resources abound, nothing compares to the personalized instruction offered in music lessons. Learning from someone who genuinely values student growth ensures better progress, creativity, and understanding—not to mention a more enriching experience.

Reach out anytime if you’re interested in lessons or have questions about enhancing your guitar skills. Your musical journey is incredibly valuable, and I’m here to help you make the most of it.

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Disclaimer: This blog may contain information that relates to music education, personal growth, and advice that could impact decision-making in your musical journey. Please be advised that results may vary and that you should always seek guidance from trusted professional educators.