Landlord issues force closure of Metro Vancouver record store after 40 years
One of Metro Vancouver’s oldest record stores will be closing its doors forever at the end of this weekend, but its not by choice.
Krazy Bob’s Music Emporium shared the news on social media earlier this month, announcing that its location at 20484 Fraser Hwy. in Langley will close on Sunday, Oct. 26.
According to owner Bob Foster in an emotional announcement video, he received notice from his landlord’s lawyer that he had to vacate as he owed $50,000 in rent.
However, he states that he hasn’t paid partially due to several issues inside of Krazy Bob’s.
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“They don’t want to fix the running water. This has not run for a year,” Foster stated, pointing to a broken toilet and sink. “And our heating system doesn’t work and they don’t want to fix it.
“And we haven’t paid rent because we could barely afford to pay my employees and myself.”
Krazy Bob’s describes itself as an “emporium of recycled entertainment” that has served the community for almost 40 years.
It offers records, comics, CDs, DVDs, VHSs, books and collectibles inside of it’s Langley store.
Krazy Bob’s Music Emporium
Hundreds of comments filled Krazy Bob’s announcement with messages of support and sadness about the record store closing.
“My mom took me to Krazy Bob’s like once a week as a kid to find the old 45s she used to listen to when she was a teenager,” said one commenter. “My mom’s been gone 29 years! Thats how iconic he is. Hes a Langley legend!”
“I’m truly sorry Bob. I know how much you loved your store and how much energy you put into everything you have done there,” added another. “You have been an inspiration to the city of Langley as you are always happy go lucky when anybody entered your store.
Krazy Bob’s Music Emporium
“You always made everybody feel welcome, special and often you entertained each person that came in, giving them an extra experience that most retailers wouldn’t bother doing.”
Foster thanked his fans and encouraged everyone to come down and shop one more time before the record store closing.
“It’s been a beautiful run. I love you guys dearly for all the support over the years.”