Who We Are
The Shops
Tunnel Records was founded in 2017 with one goal in mind; to be the perfect neighborhood record store. No pretentiousness, just good vibes and a willingness to help guide you on your musical journey.
We stock a ton of records and are always buying. Nearly all of our inventory is available in store only. No holds and you will rarely see us post a rare record on social media. We want our in store customers to have first pick on records. When you step into our doors your only competition for digging is those in the store itself, not on a computer hundreds of miles away.
The shop itself is full of curiosities of the non record sort as well to help make your visit that much more unique. Music and life are fun, and all of these little things work together at Tunnel.
In 2023 we are opened our second store located inside the Historic 4 Star Theatre in San Francisco. Located about 2 miles and across Golden Gate Park from the original location, the store hosts both live music and films with our partners CinemaSF within the theatre itself. The inventory within the shop is made to compliment this programming.
In 2024 the newest location, in iconic Ghirardelli Square was opened. This store features a curated selection of new and used records along with an extended line of merchandise and books.
About your guide, Ben
My love of music was forged at an early age from my Great Uncle and legendary jazz producer Orrin Keepnews. Although I was surrounded by jazz greats in his presence many times I was too young to know how fortunate I really was to have this living legend as my west coast 'grandfather'. Being surrounded by these greats along with shelves and shelves of records must have rubbed off on me though, as I've always been a collector and enthusiastic listener of all genres.
The first job in the record store industry I had was as a high school manager for the now defunct chain 'The Wherehouse'. Cd's were the rage and we sold a ton. I learned quickly that although chain stores aren't for me, talking about music sure is. After decades away from record store life, the calling became too strong and Tunnel was born. I always loved the feel of small store and the intimate experience it provides, and am happy so share my little musical vision with all of you.