Rhino Records Pop-Up Store Returns

Rhino's back!

​Once upon a time, there were not one, but two physical Rhino Record stores in Westwood: The first was a 2,000 square foot space that opened in the late '70s and then transitioned into the "Blow-it-Outlet"--selling used and discontinued merchandise--upon the opening of the newer location.

The newer location, which opened in 2002, was as a Billboard magazine article put it, a "pop culture superstore," with 6,000 feet of books, music and other music-related products. Sadly, the Superstore closed in 2006, leaving Westsiders without an independent music store.

In 2010, however, Rhino cofounder Richard Foos decided to liquidate his record collection rather than pack up all his vinyl and move it along with him and his family to the East Coast, and the result was the Rhino Records Pop Up Store.

This year, the pop-up store is Gary Stewart (vice president of A&R for the Rhino Records label), and, starting tomorrow, will return once again to the original location of the Westwood Rhino Store. Like last year, all proceeds will go to charity. There will be live performances by such artists as Thelonius Monster, Vicki Peterson (of the Bangles), Ruthann Friedman, Avi Buffalo, and He's My Brother, She's My Sister and family-friendly programs by Aaron Nigel Smith and Peter Himmelman.

More information and a complete calendar of events can be found here, and you can still donate records or merchandise to the event. Rhino's run lasts until June 12 at 10952 Santa Monica Blvd in Westwood. Contact cinnamon.muhlbauer@gmail.com for donation details.