New Record Store in Haight-Ashbury Revives San Francisco's Punk Spirit

In the vibrant Haight-Ashbury district, a new record store is amplifying the punk scene. I Hate Records is not merely a retail space for vinyl, tapes, and CDs; it is a hub for the local punk community.

Artists Cody Azumi and Pretty Sims, the minds behind the store, have infused it with a raw, DIY spirit that mirrors the music it promotes. "One of my favorite things about punk rock is the ability and freedom to question authority," Azumi remarked, highlighting the genre's rebellious essence.

For Azumi and Sims, I Hate Records transcends traditional business models. It is about fostering genuine connections within the community. "You know, you can order anything you want on the internet," Sims explained. "But I think that actually having that face-to-face, real conversation about it, and learning what people in San Francisco think punk is, is really important."

The store doubles as an independent record label, aiming to demystify punk for newcomers while inviting them to engage with its ethos. "I would love it if people came into the store and gave it a chance and learned about the ethos and whatnot," Azumi said. "Because it is very angry music. You know, I think a lot of people have reasons to be pissed off right now."

This commitment to punk's DIY ethos is evident in every corner of the shop, which also emphasizes social justice. A customer shared their thoughts: "This shop means a lot to me. I think it's a capstone. It was built on a lot of hard work. And I think it's really a pillar of the punk community. Got a lot of cool records, and it just feels like home when I'm in here."

Creating that sense of belonging is precisely what Azumi and Sims aspire to achieve. "It kind of just makes you feel a little bit better," Sims noted. "Just to know that you have people around you who are supportive and who are into making art for a greater purpose, to just say what you feel, no matter what other people think."

Every day, I Hate Records stands as a testament to punk's lasting influence in the Bay Area, inviting all who enter to explore its rich history and vibrant culture.