What started as a lockdown hobby has grown into one of Knowle High Street's most distinctive independent businesses.

Slow Century Records opened on Knowle High Street in November 2025, bringing vinyl, live music and a growing community of music lovers to the village.

Owner John, who grew up in Shirley, spent more than two decades working as a mental health nurse before moving into the music industry, where he interviewed bands, ran a radio station and magazine, booked festivals and DJed around the world.

But after years of working in music, he decided it was time for a change.

"My wife said, 'You keep saying you're going to open a record shop. Why don't you?'" John recalled.

"We looked at it and it started from there."

The idea had already begun taking shape during the Covid pandemic, when John started selling records online through Discogs.

"We had a collection of rock and metal albums and some bits and pieces that we sold online," he said.

"It was really just an excuse to go for a walk to the post office during lockdown."

When it came to finding a permanent home for the business, Knowle stood out.

"If you look at somewhere like Solihull town centre, it's far too expensive for an independent business like this," John said.

"Knowle's a good area and it's a nice place. It just made sense."

While some customers initially assumed the shop focused solely on rock and metal music, the store's stock has evolved alongside its customer base.

"We didn't really know what kind of customers we were going to attract when we opened, so we tried to keep things as broad as possible," John said.

Today, visitors can browse everything from classic albums and new releases to punk, jazz and pop records.

"We've got students coming in after school and college who'll buy anything from My Bloody Valentine to Michael Jackson," he added.

"You can't second-guess what people want."

The shop has also become known for its events, hosting live performances and jam sessions.

Local artists and businesses have been involved too, helping create a community-focused atmosphere.

"We try to make it as laid back as possible," John said.

"People take their time, talk about what they're buying and ask for recommendations.

"We want it to be an experience people enjoy."

The shop's efforts have already received recognition from the music industry, with Slow Century Records shortlisted for Best Independent Record Shop at the Association of Independent Music (AIM) Awards.

While the shop did not win the award, John said being shortlisted just eight months after opening was a major achievement.

"We were up for Best Independent Record Shop at the Association of Independent Music Awards," he said.

"We didn't win, but we are fiercely proud to have been shortlisted.

"A massive achievement to have that eight months into opening."

That community focus extends beyond the shop itself.

John believes independent businesses can help attract more visitors to Knowle and encourage people to spend more time on the high street.

"We're a destination store," he said.

"People will travel to buy records.

"The more independent businesses there are offering something unique and different, the better it is for the high street."

Despite the rise of streaming platforms such as Spotify and Apple Music, John believes vinyl continues to thrive because it offers something digital music cannot.

"What makes records unique is that they come with artwork, photos, liner notes and lyrics," he said.

"It's not just about listening to a song.

"It's about discovering everything that comes with it."

As Slow Century Records approaches its first birthday this November, plans are already underway for a celebration involving other Knowle businesses.

For John, however, the appeal of the shop remains simple.

"It's just a nice place to come and buy records, hang out with friends and listen to music."