(Chicago, IL) – George’s Music Room was an iconic record store on Chicago’s West Side for over 30 years before succumbing to changing tides. But the popular store has survived now at Chicago’s Midway Airport since 2001, where it was awarded space by Mayor Richard M. Daley’s administration. However, now George’s is losing its airport lease under a revamped concessions lineup. To Chicago residents and the thousands of airport goers from around the world that have discovered and enjoyed George’s Music Room, this is disheartening news. George’s is also said to be the only Black-owned business at Midway.

A petition has started to help George’s Music Room stay at the Midway Airport. “George Daniels is an icon within and outside of the music business. His location in Midway is also iconic,” states the petition. If you’d like to help keep George’s Music Room at Midway, click here to sign the petition.

The store is described as music industry icon’s Midway Airport outpost, specializing in blues, gospel, jazz, hip-hop and R&B.

As one supporter exclaims, “George’s Music Room is a piece of Chicago’s history! It needs to be preserved!” Another signer states matter-of-factly, “Because this store is a huge part of African American Culture/history in Chicago!”

George’s Music Store (Facebook)

Read a nice article about George Daniels at WMOT.org

Owner George Daniels’ photo by Lauren Chooljian