Walnut Hill: Keeps Classics Fresh

Dizzy Gillespie, Steppenwolf, John Coltrane and Led Zeppelin records are pilled high at the Beautiful World Syndicate (BWS). This neighborhood records shop—located on 48th and Pine Streets—sells, buys and trades classic jazz, hip-hop, rhythm and blues and rock music. Prices range from $7 up to $19.99, but there is a selection of CDs that only cost $2.

In her collection of Salt-n-Pepa, Red Hot Chile Peppers, Rod Stewart and KISS, Mirra Watkins loves her bargains.

“They have reasonable prices. I would never [pay] regular price,” Watkins said.

John Yates, shop manager, wants to keep a flea market feel to the store.

“It’s easier to sell cheap stuff and make happy customers,” Yates said.

BWS has been opened for two and a half years. There is a sister shop in South Philadelphia located at 1619 East Passyunk Aveue—which has existed for almost a half a decade. Even though this location has been opened longer, Yates has more fun with the friendly customers of Walnut Hill.

Earth, Wind and Fire, Curtis Mayfield’s SuperFly and Santana posters cover the lime green walls. The shop organizes music as New Arrivals, Hip Hop Under tables, Jazz, R&B, Rock and Dance genres.

If you’re into Billy Preston, Doors and Elvis Costello shop by the shop Wednesdays to Sundays to grab some timeless tunes.

“This store is for college kids…and old ladies who are looking for jazz.”