DJs and lovers of vinyl are in mourning following the closing of the Fat Beats New York City store September 4, marking the end of an era in hip-hop.  After 16 years, the legendary chain known for promoting and preserving the legacy of hip-hop is closing up shop literally; the final store in Los Angeles will close September 18.

Before shutting its doors for the last time, Fat Beats provided its customers with a week-long celebration to remember.  Each day during its final week the iconic store hosted a smorgasbord of hip-hop talent and legends including Ras Kass, Artifacts, Masta Ace, Just Blaze, Pete Rock, DJ Premier and Immortal Technique.

The closing of Fat Beats last location is another unfortunate example of the turbulence that has been affecting the record industry since the dawn of the digital age.   But there is an open window to Fat Beat’s closed door; Fat Beats will continue to operate through its online store, www.FatBeats.com .  They are also planning to open a hip-hop lifestyle location in the near future. 

Photo courtesy of Duane Smith