What makes a great record store?
According to Matt Allison, owner of Soul Provider Records, it isn’t necessarily the records themselves.
“It’s more about the feel of the person selling them," Matt explains, "And how you make the person walking through that door feel.”
After spending some time at Soul Provider, it’s hard to argue with that philosophy.
Located right here in DT Bradenton, Soul Provider Records has become much more than a place to buy, sell, and trade vinyl, as Matt’s passion for music is immediately apparent. But what stands out even more is his passion for people.
Every visit somehow turns into a discussion about a forgotten album, a random music fact, or a story we saved for our next visit.
As someone who proudly considers Matt a true friend, those conversations have become one of my favorite parts of stopping by the shop. We never seem to run out of music trivia, album recommendations, or random facts to throw back and forth.
In a world where so much of everything has become impersonal, places like Soul Provider remind me that local businesses are truly built on relationships. And let’s be honest… having another record store in Bradenton is awesome. 🤟 If you haven’t visited Soul Provider yet, stop in, dig through the crates, and say hello to Matt!
Don’t forget! You can also get a fresh haircut and get looking like your best self at Oxford Barbershop, located in the same exact brick-and-mortar as Soul Provider, and see the talented/amazingly friendly team consisting of Brandy Fogg, Elvis Walker, and Nico Hill, all ready to make you feel and look fresh.
Keep rocking y’all!
You might walk out with a record you love, but chances are you’ll leave remembering the conversation too. 🎶🤟
downtown
HIDDEN GEMS
