Black Star Records

We (Sue and Fran) have always loved the arts and music – mainly from a standing in a field and nodding our heads for the last few years. But Sue had an early career in the West End managing The London Palladium and The Lyric. Fran, not as lucky. A cliched very long stint in the city working for the man. Getting shouted out by millionaires in suits with big red ties and shiny shoes in the IT and Resource management business for over 25 years.But music was always a real love, escape, and support for both of us. Live music especially. Our holidays have always been field/tent/mud and beer based. We have been so lucky to fill our worlds with some of most incredible music and bands.Our initial thought – keeping in mind we set the shop up in the first main Covid lockdown, was to show our children its OK to do something you truly love and follow a dream. It has been such a mad and scary time for so many, and indeed many of our friends and family have been so negatively affected by the Pandemic. We just thought it the right time and reasons to start (even though A lot of people thought us crazy)We also, are truly passionate, about supporting artists directly. Across all mediums. And the pandemic did hit these truly amazing and incredible people more than most. So how could we be a positive change was also a question we asked ourselves? How can we encourage people to own their art and directly invest in the artists? We will put our money where our heart is. We opened a record shop, with a real focus on community, art and sharing what we and others love. Taking a leaf out of a certain star-man’s book. The idea of Blackstar records was born. Encourage people to own music, look at the art of the Vinyl and music scene. As well as an online community that can share in collecting, online gigs, physical shows. And just sharing in the joy of it all. Fran's IT background, and Sues theatre and event background. As well as 40 years of music, gigs and fandom. We feel it was a scary but clear step for us. And we have loved every minute ever since.The people, the online club, discovering new music and sharing new music. That is a real thrill and privilege we get to enjoy every day. We have been doing this since October 2020. And even with all the lockdowns and madness. It has been the greatest and most fulfilling professional decision of our life’s.