Coastal Empire Records

Coastal Empire Records in Savannah carries a broad mix of classic rock, metal, country, funk, soul, R&B, blues, and jazz, with local taste changing from collection to collection. Shirlene’s answers keep the focus practical: what sells, what condition matters, and what sellers should know before hauling records in.

Interview with Coastal Empire Records

Coastal Empire carries classic rock, rock, metal, country, funk, soul, R&B, blues, and a smaller jazz section. Which of those feels most "Savannah" to you?

Savannah is rich with music & the best part of that is there is something for everyone. If you ask individuals, each one will have a different answer. Personally we love classic rock, metal, southern rock & 80's rock & hair metal. We have so many opportunities every weekend to enjoy these genres from our local talent.

Record bins at Coastal Empire Records, matching the broad genre mix Shirlene describes.

Savannah's got locals, students, tourists, and deep Southern music history all crossing paths. How does that show up in your bins?

We work hard to make sure we carry the genres our clientele are seeking. This sometimes is difficult because of our limited space but if we don't have what someone is searching for, we do our best to find or order it for them.

Posters, displays, and bins give the Savannah shop a lived-in music-room feel.

When records come through the shop, are you seeing more classic collections, newer ones, or a real mix of both?

We never know what is going to come in, it is like Christmas every time. We try to encourage people to call & tell us what they have before they bring it in. Vinyl record collections can be heavy & difficult to bring in so this saves them from bringing in things we do not buy.

What should someone around Savannah know before asking whether you're interested in their records or CDs?

This is an excellent question. We buy mainly classic rock, rock, metal, country, funk, soul, R&B, blues, and jazz. We have limited space so these are the genres that sell and are the genres in which we are most interested. Most importantly, the product must be in great condition, no water damage, no torn covers, no cracked cases. The vinyl must be in great condition. We are well aware that some albums are 30 to 50 years old so there will be wear & tear but we are very particular about condition.

If a visitor only had one detail from your profile before stopping by, what should it be?

We carry a large variety but if we don't have it we will be happy to order it for you.

Shelved CDs and records show the range beyond the main LP bins.

How did the shop end up covering such a wide range of genres?

It is important to provide a selection for everyone. We try to carry as many genres as possible & it just makes good business sense. We are always open for suggestions too. We have learned so much about different artists whom we may have never been aware of had we not been told.

What's a record or artist that always does well with tourists specifically?

There are several, Beatles, Fleetwood Mac, Elton John, Billy Joel, Led Zeppelin, Jimmy Buffett, Pink Floyd, Alice in Chains & Radiohead just to name a few.

Is there a genre you wish more people brought in?

Southern Rock, Hard Rock & Heavy Metal.

What's the most memorable collection you've bought?

Just recently bought a collection with some awesome Blues & Jazz. Those genres are very popular in this area actually.

What would you tell someone visiting Savannah for the first time who wants to dig through your shelves?

Go through every bin because you never know what you will find.

The Coastal Empire Records storefront in Savannah.

FAQ

Does Coastal Empire Records buy used records and CDs?

Yes. The shop is most interested in sellable genres such as classic rock, rock, metal, country, funk, soul, R&B, blues, and jazz.

What condition matters most when selling?

Records and CDs should be in strong condition. Water damage, torn covers, cracked cases, and poor vinyl condition can hurt value.

What should a first-time visitor do?

Dig through every bin. The shop carries a wide range, and the staff can also help order titles they do not currently have.

Last updated: 2026-08-20

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