Sam Goody Records - Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” 40th Anniversary
Sitting in a mall in St. Clairsville, Ohio is one of only two remaining locations of the legendary Sam Goody Record stores. This iconic vinyl shop was a creative haven where music lovers from all walks of life would go to grab the newest releases from their favorite artists. At its peak, Sam Goody had a staggering 800 locations nationwide. As a teen, I myself would head to Sam Goody if only just to listen to vinyls when I didn’t have enough money to buy anything. Next month (Jan 2025), Sam Goody will close the doors of it’s final locations forever. That makes this project all the more special for me.
My excitement and nostalgia were in full effect when I sat down to plan out the Sam Goody release event for the 40th Anniversary of Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” album. This album, released November 1982, is still loved and cherished by millions worldwide (myself included). I grew up listening to Micheal Jackson, and actually purchased my first copy of the Thriller album on vinyl from Sam Goody Records. So it was a full circle moment when I began working on this project. I’m so proud to have had the opportunity to celebrate this body of work, and to create the anniversary logo, font design, merch and branding. As Sam Goody prepares to close it’s doors for good, I have this body of work to cherish forever.
