Real Groovy still spinning after 44 years.

Located in central Auckland, Real Groovy is home to thousands of different items of music material.

Established in 1981 by Chris Hart, Real Groovy has been providing quality music with a clear objective: to bring a community of music listeners together.

When you go up the escalator to the store, you are already entering the musical world of Real Groovy with walls covered with posters of different shows and artists. 

The first thing that grabs your attention is a large wall covered in vinyl records, some being the latest hot albums, and others older but still relevant. There are many different genres to explore such as rock and pop, hip hop, jazz, alternative, metal, and an entire section dedicated to New Zealand artists.

The store, however, is not limited to just music. They also sell more difficult to acquire merchandise, such as rare Pop Vinyl Figures and vinyl pressings. There are also officially licensed band merch, as well as literature.

The place is illuminated by neon signs, each with their own unique back story and the vibes inside are relaxed and inviting, with many staff members on hand available to answer any questions you have about music.

Samantha Webb, who has worked at Real Groovy for 9 years, said the store is growing in popularity as more people access physical media, “especially with a younger generation being exposed to records.” 

In a society where streaming services are becoming more expensive and more unreliable, Webb said Real Groovy have a lot to offer in terms of a more secure way to own music. “I think physical media is important in this day and age”, Samantha said. “Especially with how the subscription services keep upping their prices to the point where it’s almost too expensive to own any.

As well as cost, there can be issues with access. Webb says “You never really know if you’re going to be able to listen to your favourite album every time you go into the app.” 

Webb said “I think it’s important to have stores like Real Groovy around because we are about creating a community by throwing listening parties and having fans play in stores and just kind of putting the focus on music. 

“There is a level of care that goes into it here compared to other places.” 

Webb’s favourite music genres are R&B and punk, but she and the other staff are knowledgeable across the genres. Real Groovy provides a niche community experience, with hosted listening parties and concerts. Webb said this is an important difference, and makes the store stand out more as an independent business in comparison to a chain store. 

To find out more about what Real Groovy has to offer click here.

Francesca Marr is a student on the Diploma in Journalism. This is her first story for the Waikato Independent.