Kansas City Says Goodbye to 7th Heaven, A Cherished Music Store and Cultural Landmark

Kansas City Bids Farewell to a Music Icon: 7th Heaven Closing Its Doors

Ah, Kansas City! A place filled with jazz, barbecue, and vibrant culture. But this weekend, the city is saying goodbye to a beloved institution that has been part of its heartbeat for decades. 7th Heaven, a classic record store and counterculture haven, is closing its doors after more than fifty years of service to music lovers and seekers of all things unique.

A Journey Through Time

It all started with a single dream. Jan Fichman, the passionate owner of 7th Heaven, took his first steps in the world of music sales back in the 1970s. After graduating from KC’s Center High School in 1970, Fichman had set his sights on a traditional medical career. But, as fate would have it, a summer selling bootleg eight-tracks with a cousin changed everything.

“My cousin called up and said, ‘Hey, how would you like to make some money?’” Fichman recalled with a nostalgic smile. “My dad dipped into my bar mitzvah fund and got me a van. That summer rocked my world!” With laughter echoing through the years, Fichman and his cousin took to the fairs, selling music while finding their groove in the retail business.

From Bootleg to Business

But the music business isn’t always a smooth ride, especially when piracy laws made it harder to thrive on bootleg sales. Fichman, however, was not one to shy away from a challenge. He pivoted to retail, starting with a modest store on 7th Avenue staffed by his parents while he juggled school at Mizzou. “I was hustling eight-track tapes, while my parents ran the store. That was the grind!” he chuckled, reminiscing about those busy days.

Fast forward to the present day, and Fichman not only survived the shifting sands of the music industry but thrived, turning 7th Heaven into a counterculture landmark south of Kansas City. The store became an essential part of the local music scene, helping countless artists launch their careers—including the acclaimed rapper Tech N9ne, who started selling his music there.

A Community Hub

“We’ve always pushed local talent and provided a platform,” Fichman said, his pride evident. “That’s what we wanted to do—help local guys achieve something more than just being a name in the neighborhood.” He recalled the glorious days when big names like Limp Bizkit dropped by for an impromptu performance right outside the store. Memories like these have solidified 7th Heaven as part of Kansas City’s rich history.

Changes in the Industry

As trends transformed from physical media to digital, Fichman observed the effects firsthand. “Now, new music doesn’t carry the same margins. It’s tough with labels squeezing the lifeblood out of sales,” he explained. Not surprisingly, as cannabis became legal in Missouri, the market for smoking accessories also shifted dramatically. “People aren’t spending big bucks on pipes anymore; they’re more interested in the product itself,” he said, recognizing the change in consumer behavior.

The Resurgence of Vinyl

Amidst all the changes, some things remain strong—like the love for physical media. “Vinyl is making a comeback,” Fichman noted. “Consumers are craving that tactile experience—the feel of the album in their hands and the cover art. It’s about nostalgia and sentimentality.” It’s evident that, for many, that love is far from fading.

Community Farewell

As Kansas City gears up for the last day of 7th Heaven on November 30, Fichman is taking time to reflect on an era filled with stories. He believes deeply in the power of community. “Everyone that walks through our doors has a story. Music has a magical way of uniting us all,” he remarked. To celebrate the closing, local rapper Rich the Factor will take the stage for a heartfelt in-store performance, reminding everyone of the beauty that music brings.

In Conclusion

So, as we prepare to say goodbye to 7th Heaven, it’s clear that it has been more than just a record store; it has been a sanctuary for music lovers and a pivotal place for local artists. With a sigh of nostalgia, Fichman leaves us with wise words, “It’s all about doing business for the right reasons and knowing who you’re serving.” Kansas City, let’s cherish these memories and the many more that are yet to come in our music-rich community.