It’s a sad fact that many record stores — no matter how beloved they might be — tend to come and go. Zia Records, the long-running Phoenix-based chain has stuck around for 45 years and counting, becoming a staple of the local retail landscape for music lovers.
Founded by the late Brad Singer in 1980, the chain began life as Zia Used Records and Incidentals near Indian School and 19th Avenue. Singer, a die-hard music fan and record collector, launched it using vinyl hewn from his own collection and a loan from his family.
The 1,300-square-foot store had an underground vibe and a stock of quality used music. Former Zia employee Toni Koch told Phoenix New Times in 2020 that a crew of oddballs could be found both patronizing the store or working behind the counter…