Music

Iconic Sam the Record Man sign is finally coming back

by Tyler Munro

Toronto’s iconic, neon Sam the Record Man sign has been through one hell of a journey. When Ryerson University took over the legendary record shop’s original storefront in 2008, the fate of the glowing sign was put into question. In 2011, Ryerson seemed to try and renege on its deal to preserve the sign; in 2013, it confirmed that the sign would in fact be back. Eventually. Finally, in 2014, it was reported that the sign would live again, this time around the corner from its original location at 277 Victoria Street atop a building adjacent to Yonge & Dundas Square.

Note the date: That was two years ago. But finally, maybe for real this time, the sign is on its way back. Nicholas Jennings, a Toronto journalist who has spearheaded the preservation of the sign, told FYI Music News that the sign should hopefully be restored and reinstalled by the end of this summer.

“It had to go through all kinds of tests, wind tests, engineering studies and what else,” said Jennings. “It will serve as a great reminder of the neon glory and role music, record stores and clubs played in the lives of people in this city.”

It’s. About. Time.