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Small Business Spotlight: Buffalo Records
Located at 19 East 21st Street, Buffalo Records has been a key part of the Downtown Kearney community since opening its doors in 2015. I had the pleasure of chatting with the owners about the journey behind the business, their passion for music, and their unique connection with the local community.
How It All Started
Buffalo Records was born out of a shared love for music. In 2015, the owners, Rex & Jamie Herrick, and Jamie’s brother Bryce Jensen came across a huge record collection for sale. That moment sparked the idea that became the record store locals love today. “My husband and brother had an idea and ran with it,” says Jamie. With that collection as a starting point, they launched Buffalo Records, turning their passion into a thriving business.
Signature Products & Services
MUSIC is at the heart of Buffalo Records! With a wide selection of new and used vinyl records, stereo equipment, and cool merch, it's a haven for music lovers. “Our customers love coming in to browse our vinyl collections and enjoy the occasional live show in the shop,” Herrick shared. Whether you're a vinyl enthusiast or just discovering the magic of records, this shop has something for everyone.
What You Might Not Know
In addition to being a record store, Buffalo Records is also a **skate shop**! They offer new skate decks, complete skateboards, and all the accessories you need—whether you’re new to skating or an experienced rider. It’s a surprise to many, but this combination of music and skate culture has made Buffalo Records a unique space in the community. This is all thanks to Rex’s passion for skateboarding that goes back to his childhood. He has a full-time job on top of being a small business owner, he’s a husband & father, and he still somehow finds time to hop on the skateboard just like the good ole days.
Staying Connected to the Community
Buffalo Records stays in tune with the local community by actively using social media to keep everyone updated on new arrivals and special items. “We remind people that just because you can get it online or at a big-box store, doesn’t mean you should,” Jamie says. Their message is clear: supporting local businesses keeps money in the community and brings exclusive finds you can't get elsewhere.
The Joy of Owning a Small Business
For Rex, Jamie, Bryce and their family, the most rewarding aspect of Buffalo Records is sharing their love for music with others. “Music brings people together, makes you laugh, cry, dance, or just chill out. It’s such a powerful part of our lives, and we want everyone to experience that joy in their own homes,” Herrick explains. Their passion for music is evident, and it’s what makes Buffalo Records more than just a store—it’s a hub for music lovers to connect and find something that resonates with them.
Why Supporting Local Matters
“We’re here to provide you with whatever makes you happy,” Herrick says. “We’re not here to judge your musical taste or how steady you are on a skateboard. We just want to be the ones who bring a little joy into your life.” When customers leave with a new record or a skateboard, they carry with them a piece of the shop's heart and soul.
Find Out More
Want to check out the latest records or skate gear? Stop by Buffalo Records at 19 East 21st Street, follow them on Facebook and Instagram, or visit their website for weekly updates on new shipments.
-Kelsey Anderson, Downtown Coordinator
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