Once upon a time, when a guitarist in Orion snapped a string or joyously smashed their axe at the end of a set, they’d have to drive miles to a music store for replacements.
Not any more.
Rockers and other musicians in the area now have a place they can head to for their equipment needs, Backstage Music, which recently opened its doors at 1116 S. Lapeer.
Owner Tom Bartlett is a 30-year vet of the music biz. He’s owned music stores in California and has worked with superstars such as Elton John, Ozzy Osbourne, David Lee Roth and Alice Cooper.
‘Every community needs a local hub for the music scene,? he said about starting up the store.
Bartlett was born and raised in Rochester, where he graduated from Rochester Adams before going on to Michigan State.
In the 1980s, he began doing sound engineering in Detroit for what he calls ‘big-hair bands.?
Eventually he moved to northern California, where he owned several music stores and concert sound production companies.
He recently moved back to Michigan to care for his ailing father in Oxford. Starting another music store came naturally after all his years of experience.
‘It was either get a job, or create a job,? he said. ‘I wanted to challenge the Michigan economy.?
The store sells new and used guitars, including vintage.
Bartlett will also buy, sell or trade equipment. He said he pays cash for guitars.
‘If people are having a hard time,? he added.
The shop also offers repair services. Light repairs can be fixed in-store, others may be sent out.
Bartlett is also available to local music venues.
If an amp goes out during a gig, he can be counted on to help.
‘I can make sure the show will go on,? he said.
So far, he’s seen an encouraging response from local musicmakers.
‘The musicians seem really stoked to have a local music store,? he said.
The store is open from noon to 7. For more information, call 248-845-4315.