New Grand Rapids Retro Record Store: Vinyl, VHS, DVDs & Games

Got a vinyl or DVD collection you’re looking to grow? Or maybe you’re ready to dive back into the nostalgia of VHS tapes and cassettes. Either way, a new Grand Rapids shop might just become your new favorite spot!

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New Vintage Media Store Comes to Grand Rapids

Backwards Compatible is gearing up to open its doors at 2024 Eastern Ave. SE on Friday, October 31, bringing an old-school vibe to the city’s music and media scene. The store describes itself as an “underground media culture store”—a place where you can buy, sell, and trade everything from vinyl, CDs, and cassettes to books, movies, clothing, and video games.

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I first heard about the shop in my neighborhood Facebook group. Folks in Alger Heights are excited to welcome it! Collectors might like that Tardy's Collectors Corner, selling new and vintage comic books and toys, is right across the street—a little hub of nostalgia forming in the neighborhood.

According to Wood TV 8, Backwards Compatible owner Brandon Hill has been part of West Michigan’s music and media-collecting community for more than 20 years. A collector and DJ himself, Hill told the station he wants Backwards Compatible to be a place of learning and connection—somewhere that welcomes both long-time collectors and newcomers alike.

Grand Opening of Backwards Compatible

The shop’s Grand Opening runs 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Halloween, with guest DJs spinning all day and a live Dungeon Synth performance at 6 p.m. from Michigan artist Kloister. Hill plans to host more musical performances plus workshops in the future.

More details—including regular store hours and what will be in stock—will be shared soon. Follow Backwards Compatible on Instagram for updates.

Nostalgic for more old-school media? There's another new spot in Grand Rapids renting and selling VHS tapes and DVDs!

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