Shirley Bechor (left) and current owner Sharone Bechor at the company's newest location.
New York City-based DJ shop Rock and Soul is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. The company started in 1975, when Joseph and Shirley Bechor opened a modest electronics shop in Manhattan as immigrants chasing the American dream. Since then, Rock and Soul has become a cornerstone in its local NYC music scene by serving the needs of DJs looking for vinyl records, eventually expanding its offerings to also include DJ gear.
Fast-forward 50 years and Rock and Soul is now known for its extensive selection of DJ equipment, vinyl records and client services, such as rentals, lessons and studio space. But more importantly, the store has attracted and helped debut countless DJs and music enthusiasts, and it still serves as a cultural hub where DJs can connect, learn, and perform.
Rock and Soul has played an influential role in breaking out new talent and supporting a clientele full of renown artists. From the early pioneers like Kool Herc and Grandmaster Flash to radio DJs Red Alert and Chuck Chillout, the store became a go-to for NYC DJs to pick up their vinyl. In 1992, the freshly formed hip-hop group Wu Tang Clan began selling their records through Rock and Soul, and in 2015, during an industry event honoring him, Mark Ronson publicly acknowledged the store’s influence on the DJ community by reminiscing how he purchased his first set of turntables at Rock and Soul 22 years earlier. The following year, a documentary about Mark Ronson was filmed in the store.
Today, Rock and Soul is enjoying the resurgence of vinyl. The day-to-day business is run by daughter Sharone Bechor.
“We’re often asked how we stayed in business for so long, and the answer is, you must not be afraid to evolve,” Sharon said. “However, I think our dedication to the community is what really sets us apart.”
In early 2025, Rock and Soul was formally recognized by NAMM in honor of its 50 years of service to musicians.
As part of a year-long anniversary celebration, Rock and Soul has announced monthly specials for customers, including brand and artist partnerships, exclusive merch drops, limited releases, and more.
