Established in 1969
Kellys Records has placed a love for music and community at the heart of everything we do since 1969. From our humble beginnings as a small stall in Cardiff Central Market, we've grown into a beloved institution for music lovers in Cardiff and beyond. This journey, spanning over five decades, is a testament to our commitment to preserving the magic of vinyl and fostering a community united by a shared passion for music.
Join us as we take you through the milestones that have shaped Kellys Records into what it is today.
Beginnings in the Market (1969)
Kellys Records started as a modest stall on the balcony of Cardiff Indoor Market, now known as Cardiff Central Market, in 1969. The founders, Eddie and Phyllis Kelly, were driven by their passion for music and community. This bustling market, located in the heart of Cardiff City Centre, is renowned for its eclectic mix of stalls, from international food vendors to vintage clothing sellers, and Kellys Records became a key part of this vibrant scene. Eddie and Phyllis were not just shop owners; they were music enthusiasts who loved engaging with customers, sharing new tunes, and reminiscing about timeless classics. Their vision was to create a community hub where like-minded people could come together over a shared love of music, a value that remains at the core of Kellys Records to this day.
Expanding Horizons (1990s)
The 1990s brought significant changes to Kellys Records and the music industry at large. This decade was marked by a cultural shift towards diverse musical tastes, fueled by the rise of music television channels like MTV and the advent of the internet. It was an era where genres like Hip Hop, Brit-Pop, and boy bands gained massive popularity. Kellys Records thrived amidst this musical evolution, embracing the chaos and excitement of the times. The store became a treasure trove for collectors, offering a vast array of records from every genre imaginable. As CDs began to dominate the market, many sold their vinyl collections, unaware that these would become highly prized in the years to come. Eddie and Phyllis retired, passing the baton to their nephew Allan Parkins, who continued to navigate the store through the changing tides of the music industry.
Surviving the Digital Age (2000s)
The turn of the millennium posed new challenges with the rapid rise of digital music formats and the internet, which threatened traditional record stores. Despite these challenges, Kellys Records maintained its loyal customer base, thanks to the community's unwavering support. While CDs became the preferred format, there was still a strong demand for vinyl, which refused to fade away. The 2000s saw the emergence of new musical genres and the continued popularity of established artists. The personal interactions and the joy of discovering new music in a physical store kept customers coming back. Allan Parkins and his team adapted by expanding their inventory to include CDs and other digital formats, ensuring that Kellys Records remained a relevant and beloved institution in Cardiff.
The Vinyl Revival (2010s)
The 2010s marked a renaissance for vinyl records, much to the delight of Kellys Records. Streaming services like Spotify initially seemed like a threat but ended up complementing the resurgence of vinyl. As music became more accessible online, people began to appreciate the unique experience that vinyl offered. The tactile joy of owning a physical album and the immersive experience of listening to a record from start to finish brought a new generation of music lovers into the store. Kellys Records expanded its offerings to include new and sealed vinyl, catering to the growing demand. The store's renovation in 2020, despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, transformed it into a modern haven for vinyl enthusiasts, blending its rich heritage with a fresh, contemporary vibe.
Embracing the Future (2020s)
Today, Kellys Records stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of vinyl and the power of community. Located in the historic Cardiff Central Market, the store is a beacon for music lovers of all ages. The bright, picturesque displays of album sleeves draw customers in, while the sense of camaraderie and shared passion for music keeps them coming back. The store has played host to numerous events and collaborations, including club nights and pop-up shops, fostering a vibrant music scene in Cardiff. Despite the challenges of the digital age and the pandemic, Kellys Records continues to thrive, thanks to the dedication of its team and the support of its loyal customers. With a rich history and a bright future, Kellys Records remains a cherished part of Cardiff's cultural landscape.
