The Flip Side of Chicago’s Music History: A Blog Post
If you’re of a certain age, you might remember the thrill of waiting in line at a record store, hoping to snag tickets to your favorite band’s concert. For Chicago residents in the late ’60s and ’70s, that record store was likely a Flip Side. In “The Flip Side: Where Chicago Rocked,” co-authors Larry and Carl Rosenbaum take us on a journey through the history of this iconic record store chain and its concert promotion business.
From Humble Beginnings
Larry and Carl Rosenbaum, both in their early 20s and married with babies, decided to go into business for themselves in 1968. With limited options, they chose a record store over a Vienna hot dog stand or a dry cleaner. Their first store was a former bakery on Foster Avenue in Chicago. Their biggest competitor was Little Al’s Records, but they refused to let that intimidate them.
Innovation and Growth
The brothers’ fortunes changed when they met a young marketing executive who suggested the name Flip Side for their store. With the music business booming in the ’70s, Flip Side thrived. They brought Ticketron outlets into their stores, making it easier for fans to buy tickets to shows. Eventually, they entered the concert promotion business, becoming the go-to promoters in Chicago.
A Cultural Phenomenon
At its peak, Flip Side had 21 stores across the Chicago area. They worked with major labels and promoted shows featuring bands like the Rolling Stones, the Who, Cheap Trick, and Steve Martin. The store’s influence extended beyond just music; it was a cultural hub that brought people together.
The End of an Era
Despite their success, Flip Side couldn’t withstand the onslaught of big-box stores like Best Buy and Circuit City. These retailers undercut prices on CDs, using them as loss leaders to attract customers. By the late ’90s, all privately owned record stores had been pushed out of business. The era of the independent record store had come to an end.
Implications for You and the World
For individuals, the decline of independent record stores is a reminder of the impact of corporate competition on small businesses. It’s a cautionary tale about the importance of supporting local businesses and the consequences of relying too heavily on big corporations.
On a larger scale, the demise of Flip Side and other independent record stores is a symbol of the music industry’s transformation. The rise of digital music and streaming services has drastically changed the way we consume music. Record stores, once the heart of music culture, have been relegated to nostalgia.
A Long, Strange Trip
“The Flip Side: Where Chicago Rocked” offers a fascinating look into a bygone era. It’s a testament to the power of entrepreneurship, innovation, and the enduring appeal of music. Larry Rosenbaum’s story serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, the journey is worth taking.
To learn more about Flip Side and the Rosenbaums’ experiences, pick up a copy of their book or attend one of Larry’s signing events on Record Store Day, April 12, 2025.
- Val’s Halla, 239 Harrison St., Oak Park, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
- Scratched Vinyl, 119 Barrington Commons Court, Barrington, from 2 to 3 p.m.
