Tower Records’ long-promised ‘creative space’ is finally ready for its debut

By Brooklyn Magazine Staff

Tower Records is (finally) ready to reopen in Williamsburg. But don’t expect a traditional store.

The legendary music retailer announced that Tower Labs — a “creative space” for musicians and entertainers that will host live performances, interviews and album signings — will make its public debut on March 24. It might not feature endless rows of vinyl, but the company said in a release that it will  “once again be a staple of the Tower experience.”

The Brooklyn opening marks the storied brand’s first new physical space in about 16 years. At its peak, the chain operated roughly 200 record stores in 15 different countries before over-expansion and the internet led to the shuttering of all of its physical locations by 2006.

Williamsburg was chosen because it’s known for “art and music” and the retailer is weaving itself into the neighborhood by working with nearby live venues to “establish an intimate space for performing acts to convene and socialize before and after shows.”

While physical music won’t be on sale, Tower said that it will host pop-ups offering limited edition music, clothing and gear. Ultimately, the purpose of Tower Labs is to “develop a blueprint for future Tower Records locations.” The opening coincides with the digital-only relaunch of Pulse!, its in-house magazine that will feature filmed interviews, performances, podcasts and events held at Tower Labs.

Tower Labs is located at 151 Kent Ave. with the first event being a performance from indie rocker Caroline Rose on March 24.