5 Shocking Ways Hi-Voltage Records Transformed Tacoma's 6th Avenue From Vinyl Shop To Cultural Powerhouse
Hi-Voltage Records, a foundational pillar of the Pacific Northwest music scene, is no longer just a record store; it has cemented its status as a full-service cultural institution in Tacoma, Washington. As of late 2025, the store, officially known as Hi-Voltage Records & Books, has undergone a significant expansion, taking over an adjacent storefront to dramatically increase its inventory and offerings, a move that has energized the entire 6th Avenue Business District.
This deep dive explores the history, the people, and the revolutionary offerings that make this independent shop a must-visit destination for vinyl fans, book lovers, and anyone interested in the authentic pulse of the "Grit City" music scene. From its origins nearly two decades ago to its current, expanded state, Hi-Voltage Records & Books continues to defy the retail odds, fostering a community hub that connects generations of music and literature enthusiasts in a way few other shops can.
The Proprietors: Brian & Meredith Kenney's Biography and Vision
The story of Hi-Voltage Records & Books is inextricably linked to the vision of its founders, the married couple Brian and Meredith Kenney. The Kenneys opened the store roughly 17 years ago, originally situated about a block from its current prime location on Tacoma's vibrant 6th Avenue.
Brian Walter Kenney is listed as the Sole Proprietor, guiding the business with a serious passion for both new and old music, ensuring the shop's soundtrack is always diverse and engaging. Their commitment was to create a space that went beyond mere retail, becoming a true destination for musical treasures.
The shop’s staff, including manager Adam Davis-Stockman, are noted for their deep knowledge and dedication to the local scene, often playing an active role in introducing a whole new generation to the tactile joy of vinyl. This dedicated team and the Kenney's long-term commitment to the 6th Ave neighborhood are the driving force behind the store's success and its recent, massive expansion.
1. The Shocking Expansion: Why Hi-Voltage Added 2,600 New Books
The most significant and recent update to the Hi-Voltage story is its dramatic expansion into the world of literature. The store has officially rebranded to Hi-Voltage Records & Books, a change necessitated by its move into an adjacent storefront.
This expansion wasn't a minor addition; it involved incorporating an impressive selection of approximately 2,600 new books, all now under one roof with the vast music collection.
This strategic move transformed the store from a dedicated vinyl shop into a comprehensive cultural hub. By merging the worlds of music and literature, the Kenneys created a powerful synergy, recognizing that the audience for deep-cut vinyl and the audience for independent literature often overlap. It solidifies their place as a premier destination on 6th Ave, a district already known for its eclectic array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
The selection includes a wide variety of genres, offering new books to complement their massive stock of new and used vinyl records, CDs, DVDs, and cassettes.
2. The Unrivaled Vinyl Selection: New Releases and Deep Cuts
At its core, Hi-Voltage Records remains a haven for the serious music collector. The shop is celebrated across the Pacific Northwest for its extensive and vibrant selection, catering to every genre imaginable.
The inventory is meticulously curated, balancing the high demand for popular new releases with the treasure hunt thrill of used records and deep cuts. Whether you are searching for a rare 45, an essential LP from a classic rock band, or the latest pressing from an indie label, the shelves at 2714 6th Ave are constantly rotating to provide fresh finds.
The staff’s philosophy, as articulated by owner Brian Kenney, involves a serious commitment to "Always playing something different both new and old," ensuring a dynamic and welcoming atmosphere for all visitors. This dedication to variety and quality is what makes Hi-Voltage a cornerstone of the vinyl community, drawing fans from across the region and beyond.
3. Anchoring the Legendary 6th Avenue Music District
Hi-Voltage Records & Books is more than just a single business; it is a vital anchor in the revitalization and identity of the Sixth Avenue Business District. This neighborhood is widely regarded as one of Tacoma's most exciting and desirable areas, a hub of local activity featuring independent coffee shops, diverse restaurants, and unique boutiques.
The record store contributes significantly to the "6th Avenue Record Walk," a collective of Tacoma vinyl stores that makes the street a true destination for music lovers. Other notable entities in this walk include House of Records & Turntable Treasures and Janku Land, creating a powerful synergy that benefits all.
Furthermore, the shop exists within a rich tapestry of Tacoma music venues and history. Nearby, you can find the notable live music venue Jazzbones, and the area is home to new rock 'n' roll-themed bars like Busy Body!, which pays homage to the city’s heritage as a haven of '60s-era punk. This concentration of cultural entities is what turns a simple shopping trip into a full-day experience.
4. Connecting Generations to Tacoma's Music History
Tacoma, often called the "City of Destiny," has a rich and often-overlooked musical history, and Hi-Voltage serves as a living, breathing connection to that past.
The store’s extensive inventory naturally intersects with the legacies of famous bands and notable musicians who hail from Tacoma, helping to keep the history alive for a new generation. Entities like the garage rock pioneers The Sonics, the influential mathcore band Botch, the power pop group Don't Tell Sophie, and the legendary jazz vocalist Diane Schuur all form part of the city's musical narrative.
By stocking both new and vintage records, the shop introduces younger vinyl fans to the foundational sounds of the region, from the hardcore punk of bands like Harkonen and Enumclaw to the classic sounds of Girl Trouble. The store acts as a local scene hub, a place where the history of venues like the now-closed ALMA is discussed and the future of the local scene is forged.
5. The Cultural Impact: Fostering a Community Hub
Ultimately, the success and longevity of Hi-Voltage Records & Books—now nearly two decades in the making—is a testament to its role as a community hub, not just a retail outlet.
In a world of digital streaming and online shopping, the tactile, communal experience of flipping through records and browsing book stacks remains irreplaceable. The store provides a vital third space where people can connect over shared passions, discover new artists, and engage with the local culture.
The expansion into books is not just a business decision; it’s a commitment to fostering intellectual and artistic curiosity. By offering thousands of new books alongside a vast music library, Brian and Meredith Kenney have created a unique destination that celebrates the analog arts in all their forms, ensuring that Hi-Voltage Records & Books will remain a vibrant, high-voltage component of the Tacoma cultural landscape for years to come.
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