When Joe Long started in the music business in 1957, he had a feeling it was filled with risks and uncertainties. By the time he was owner of Birdel’s Records in 1968, he was sure it was. Now almost 50 years later Joe still owns Birdel’s Records in the Bedford Stuyvesant community of Brooklyn, New York.
His love for his community is well-known and Joe has received numerous awards and citations for his outstanding service to his community and has been the subject of articles in Gothams’ leading newspapers. Joe still finds time to be an active member in his church where he serves in several capacities.

Now Joe is preparing for his big birthday bash and his celebration of being in the biz for a half century. UN caught up with the always-busy retailer for a quick chat.

UN: What got you started in this business?
JL: I got started in the business because of my love for music. In 1952 as a sophomore in high school, I brought my own console record player. It was an airline player made by Montgomery Ward. I had to purchase it on layaway paying $5.00 a week. I love people and felt that I could earn a good living because everything I needed to start up was so reasonable and the profit margin on the music was good.
 
UN: What was the first single you ever sold?
JL: The first single I sold was “Crazy for You” by the Heartbeats. The first big hit
single was “All Shook Up” by Elvis Presley.
 
UN: What has this business meant to you?
JL: This business has brought me great pleasure working with people and bringing them happiness by helping them to obtain the music they love. I put two children through college. My daughter is a doctor and my son is an author and playwright.
 
UN: How have you avoided going out of business through the decades?
JL: I have avoided going out of business by staying focused and knowing the business. The record business is not a 9 to 5. You have to live sleep and be one step ahead of your competitors. Most of all by putting God first and foremost in my life.
 
UN: What will be your approach to the future?
JL: My approach in the future is to retire and live life to the fullest.
 
UN: Where do you see the digital technology taking the music business?
JL: Digital technology may create a problem for independents to survive unless the change will make things profitable to stay in business.
 
UN: Is there a future for brick and mortar independents in this business?
JL: Independents will always be the foundation of the music business.