Know Name Records

Know Name Records has stayed recognizable in Minneapolis partly through continuity: low employee turnover, repeat collectors, and a shop mix that goes beyond records into pipes, incense, and other head shop staples. The interview is short, but it gives a useful snapshot of what keeps people coming back.

Interview with Know Name Records

Know Name has been part of Minneapolis record life for a long time. How has the shop stayed itself while the city's scene kept reinventing?

The shop has stayed itself mostly because of low employee turnover.

Who comes through the door: longtime regulars, students, collectors working the Twin Cities circuit?

We have some regular collectors who show up about weekly because they don't want to miss out on any fresh "used" vinyl and CD's that we acquire.

We sell pipes and incense and other head shop stuff that brings many repeat customers.

What do Minneapolis customers hunt for most, and how much does the city's own music history drive demand?

Most of our collectors look for stuff like punk,British 70's 80's. Classic rock old original pressings.And stuff like Prince,The Time,Janet Jackson,Jam and Harris.

Minneapolis rock scene from 80's to 90's(The Replacements,Husker Du)

What's been quietly strong in the bins lately?

Yacht rock and yacht jazz quietly sells.

What comes through when locals sell collections? Do decades of Twin Cities scenes show up in those boxes?

Nothing stands out among what people sell.

If someone wants to sell records, what's the best first step, and what makes a collection an easy yes?

I have no answer.

What condition problems do Minnesota basements inflict on vinyl?

Condition issues are usually heat related. Attic storage! Moldy basements.

First visit to Know Name: what should someone dig through first?

no answer

FAQ

What formats does Know Name Records buy?

The shop has previously noted interest in 78s, 45s, 12-inch records, and LPs, with value depending on market demand, condition, and past sales experience.

Does Know Name Records offer cash or store credit?

Previous store guidance said sellers could choose cash or store credit, with store credit offering 25% more value than cash.

Last updated: 2026-07-28