We know how all of us crate diggers need one of those record stores we can spend hours… or a whole day in.  If you’re in Evansville, Indiana Space Monkey Records is that place for you.  Space Monkey houses over 200,000+ new and used records, CDs and more, as well as one of the largest selections of vintage stereo equipment and turntables.  They have been voted “Best Place to Buy Music” two years in a row for their tri-state area.  In this feature we had the pleasure to meet the store’s manager Meredith.

When she’s not managing all of the store, ordering new and pricing used records, “I’m spending time with my three boys (Benjamin, Darryl and Urijah) and my husband Landon.”

How did you get into your industry / What motivated you?

I wasn’t looking to get into the music industry but I stumbled across an ad on Craigslist needing help setting up a store. I sent in my email telling the owner about myself and it turned in to so much more. We have worked together and built the store to what it is today.

Favorite sale / relationship made from behind the counter?

I can’t pick my favorite relationship that I’ve made. I’ve met so many wonderful people, from all walks of life. I have created friendships that I never would have all because we have one thing in common, a love for music.

In your opinion what has been the coolest thing to come through your shop / thing you had to keep / almost couldn’t put out for sale?

One of the coolest albums to come through the shop would have to be a Hickory Wind LP. It was made locally here in Evansville in 1969. We have had several copies and one of the loving band members even stopped by to give us the full history of the album.

What has been / is the most difficult part of your job?

Preparing for Record Store Day (RSD) is probably the most difficult only because it takes me two months of pricing and planning.

What has been the craziest experience that has happened at the shop?

Thankfully nothing too crazy has happened at Space Monkey that is notable.

What advice do you have for someone wanting to get into pursuing what you’re doing? Any tips + maybe some resources you like.

Just go for it. I was clueless about the industry and had to do hours of research and I still learn something new every day. It’s hard work but it’s worth it.

What types of things are happening in your industry / with vinyl that you’re excited or worried about? 

It’s always exciting when a kid and/or younger person walks in and buys their self a record and/or cassette. It’s a great thing to see!

Are you a vinyl collector yourself, what drew you to it? 

I wasn’t a collector and tried to resist it, but I too have the same vinyl sickness everyone else does.

Who has been influential to you and your growth as a professional in this industry? 

The owner, Pat. Pat put his trust in me and gives me free rein to express myself and incorporate my ideas into the store. He has guided me through for 3 and 1/2 years. Together we make a great team!

Anything else you want to share? If not, tell us what you’re listening to: 

Stevie Ray Vaughan is the absolute best!

Find Meredith: 

Instagram: @spacemonkeyrecords

Facebook: @SpaceMonkeyRecordsEvansville

Discogs: @SpaceMonkeyRecords

Website: https://recordgroove.net/