sudden shutters
Iconic South San Antonio record store in limbo after rent lockout
Flip Side Record Parlor is asking for donations to keep its doors open.
One of San Antonio’s most iconic record stores is facing an uncertain future after being locked out of its longtime South Side home. Flip Side Record Parlor, at 840 SW Military Dr, is seeking community support to repay its landlord so it can reopen the shop.
“Right now, FSRP is going through an incredibly difficult financial crisis,” wrote business owner Roman Cuellar on Instagram. “I know many of us are feeling the squeeze of the current economy and rising costs of living, and it pains me to share that our shop is facing those same harsh realities.”
The post explains that Flip Side fell behind after a steep rent hike. The shop maintains that it has been making partial payments, but will not have access to the space until the balance is paid in full.
The record store, which first opened in 1972, has had a turbulent decade. Former owner Clarisa Peña, a longtime employee who took over the reins after original owner Doug Lease’s death, lost her battle with colon cancer in 2020. At the time, her daughter, Jessica Erevia, told the San Antonio Current that she wasn’t sure if she wanted to keep the store open because it was no longer self-sustaining.
Ultimately, the keys went to another employee who had worked in the store since the ‘90s — Peña’s brother, Roman. Cuellar maintained the shop’s original character, including the burning incense that greeted customers at the door.
Flip Side is asking for community contributions to help reopen the store, but has not posted any fundraising updates since its initial plea. In the comments, Cuellar assured customers that Satchmo, the store’s chatty parrot mascot, is safe.
“Flip Side Record Parlor is more than just a business to me, it’s a community,” wrote Cuellar. “I am turning to you all with a humble plea for help. If FSRP has ever brought a little joy, great music, or good memories into your life, please consider donating.”
