Vinyl is Back and Bringing Generations Together in Fox River Grove

Kristine Ensor
Aug 5
2 min read

“Most record stores close because of a lack of parking. I have plenty of that,” Larry Turzynski said, pointing to the massive parking lot in front of Stonehill Shipping Center in Fox River Grove.

2025 was the 19th consecutive year of growth for vinyl album purchases, reaching over $1 billion in the United States. Whether it’s due to this growth or the extra parking space, Turzynski’s store isn’t in danger of closing any time soon.

Needle Drop record shop in Fox River Grove, IL

NeedleDrop Opened to a Line of Excited Local Music Lovers

NeedleDrop record shop opened on Saturday, July 11th, to a line of customers down the strip. Since its opening, Turzynski has welcomed Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, even kids from Gen Z.

Turzynski not only sells vinyl, but buys it. NeedleDrop’s collection includes used and new(ish) records, many from the 80s! NeedleDrop’s inventory also includes jewelry, t-shirts, hats, collectibles, trading cards, and unique gifts. Some of the most distinctive items are from a local artist who creates Rat Fink sculptures and lightboxes.

That’s not where the fun stops. NeedleDrop also has a small stage where local performers like East Edwards and Mike’s Magic, Pokemon, One Piece Card Show have already drawn a crowd.

A Lifelong Passion for Music

The shop’s inventory and entertainment are only part of why it opened to such acclaim. The other reason is Turzynski’s passion for music. When I asked Larry Turzynski for a quote, he pointed to the sign above the checkout. “Music is my drug.” It didn’t take me long to see why he chose it.

Before opening NeedleDrop, Turzynski spent over 20 years as a DJ during his free time. For 15 of those 20 years, he sold vinyl. Music even invaded Turzynski’s day job, where he sold hard drives to customers including heavy metal guitarist Jason Hook from 5 Finger Death Punch and Weird Al Yankovich.

Turzynski’s love of vinyl is why he started NeedleDrop. As the website says, “We opened Needle Drop because we believe vinyl isn’t just surviving, it’s thriving, and we wanted to be part of that in our community.” Customers who believe the same can check out Needle Drop Tuesdays through Sunday at 904 IL-22 in Fox River Grove.