Great organization and really good variety! The staff also seemed very friendly and polite. Would recommend giving a visit if looking for vinyl!
Thought I had found a good deal on Acid Rap. ordered Oct 6 with 2-3 day shipping. Didnt get any order status until I emailed them. Jake gave me a delivery date of 10/21, by this time I no longer needed it and wanted to cancel my order. he said there was nothing they could do until the record got delivered. That once I received it they would email me a return label. Another week goes by and I finally receive it. It looks like chewed up. I email them asking for the return label and have not heard anything in 5 days. Waste of time and money.
Really cool shop. Lots of new and used records, I was impressed with the variety and availability of some lesser known musicians (no Wolf People though! Maybe soon?) Its a smaller store that hits alot of those classic record store vibes I got in college, and they gave me a free sticker.
Excellent packaging. Records received in perfect condition. Called to check if record was 180 gram and the Shuga Employee weighed the record and packaging for me to verify it was 180 gram. Highly recommend. I live in Milwaukee and hope to visit the Chicago store in person someday.
Best record store ever in Chicago! They have really great music under all genres. Workers were really friendly and helpful! For those who are 45 fans. They have a bunch of 45’s in boxes, but you only have a limit time to shop which is alright and far with the covid going on and limited of people. I’m definitely coming here again if I want more techno or other genres on 12”.
This shop rules. Simply put. The online ordering rules just as much. One of my favorite shops I’ve ever been to. Owner rules, staff rules, selection is mighty. Keep doing what you’re doing and don’t stop. Love from downstate IL. Much love.
Amazing selection of records, and best shipping care I’ve ever seen. It’s my favorite record shop and I don’t live anywhere near it. Would recommend to anyone looking for records
I dont know a lot about records so this is a review for a novice trying to explore vinyl.My first impression was seeing chance the rapper acid rap on sale for $125. As a person who owns about 12 records and mostly just from live shows Ive seen Ive never paid more than $40 for a record. This seemed high as this is not a limited release, I love Chance but why does it cost so much? I checked discogs, an online retailer and the same album was selling for $44. That is some serious markup.I recognized Limpbizkits Chocolate Startfish from my childhood and was astounded at seeing the sticker price of $225. I looked it up on discogs and saw it sells for $70. Again, that is high markup.I had a difficult time finding genres. Most isles after spending a few minutes searching for a sign or trying to make a pattern between the few artists I recognized I would just give up. This made it difficult to look for artists I was interested in searching for because I couldnt find their section.There was no one to help me when I couldnt figure out how to search for the artists I wanted. I eventually gave up due to the lack of help and just left. Im sure most people that are in to music probably dont want a lot of help so I get not harassing clients but Id appreciate there being at least one person on the floor to ask for help, other than the cashier who is busy with the line of people checking out.Im probably not going to go back but it does seem popular with people who are bigger music people.
I loved this record store, the day I went there was a girl and a man at the front. They were absolutely great! 👍 Customer service here is a 10 and they were just absolutely helpful. They dont wait to b asked for help. Love it here, I will b returning for more.
Very bad customer experience. Did not attempt to fix the issue I contacted them about an online order placed that either didn’t go out or has been sitting with Fedex for more than 13 days somewhere still in a pending status. This should not have happened, the store should have either replaced the items as per my phone conversation with the gentleman at the store, or refund my money. I have done business with this store in the past and did not have any issues, but i’m not sure what happened this time; however this type of business practice is totally unacceptable (granted we are still in a pandemic) but honestly that’s not a good enough excuse for Suga Records to not fix the problem. I ended up having to call my bank in order to file a fraudulent claim against this store so I could get my money refunded back.Update:The store did manage to finally send me a replacement for the items that they state either didnt go out, or were missing in the mail. The replacement record they sent me was an opened copy of the record, which is not what I ordered. It should have been sealed, instead they sent me a promo copy or something to make up for the issue. Again, be careful and extra mindful of ordering online from this business.
Bought an original Tool Vinyl I really wanted! Got it shipped to me and had it in about 4 business days. Super thrilled and all sides on both LP are mint! Love it and definitely gonna make a trip to this location and see what else you got hidden!!!
Very friendly staff, LOTS of records of a myriad genre/age. Easy to spend too much money there! 😝
I dont know anything about records, but my sister does and she called this her new favorite record store!
Ordered from them multiple times. This last order they didnt have stock of a album said they would refund and ship the rest. I said that that OK. I emailed them back and inquired about refund they said it was issued and wait 24-48hours. I waited about a week and emailed them again with no response.My correspondence has been with Jake and Ash. And they assured me refund was coming but it never did and I never heard back after another attempt of contacting themORDER #32376will not shop again they stole my money.They also dont answer BBB inquiries.
Shuga is the spot! I have started and completed artist discographies here and have had the best time doing it with the staff. Very helpful, patient, and knowledgeable. All the vinyl is well kept, prices are affordable and within reason.Check them out on discogs as well!
One of the few record stores on the Northside that actually has a sizeable collection of hip hop, neo soul, and funk records; as well as having pop and punk hits.
I am new to the record collecting so havent been to many records shops but this is my absolute favorite so far. Even their website is far beyond many of these shops. Especially Reckless... I hear they are number one in Chicago, i havent made it in person yet but their site is laughable. Shuga is life!
Shuga Records is one of the newer record stores on the block. They have a good mix of music in stock most of the time. Lots of used equipment for sale as well as posters, concert flyers and other side items. The staff is pretty great. Friendly and knowledgable. Its a mid to small store with a classic crate feel. The prices are a little on the high side. More than most actually. I think that explains why they have so many rare things in stock. They need to revisit their pricing on vinyl and posters. One of the cool things Shuga Records does is put on fun events that go the extra mile, like on record store day they sometimes have donuts and coffee. I recommend this store for variety of items and rare selections, but because of the higher than usual prices and lack of parking, they get a 3 out of 5 star.
Hands down the best staff in the business. I love this place
Ive shopped here regularly for years both online and in store. I would recommend any vinyl fan check Shuga out. The music selection is top notch and the staff has always been friendly and accommodating.
Okay so i absolutely love the selection and great prices. Only complaint is the pricing on bootlegs
Love this place. Best record store Ive been to in Chicago hands down. This place has all those albums from the bands that nobody else seems to carry.
The staff are really friendly and the selection is fantastic
Best record shop in town. Friendly staff and great selection of vinyl.
Never worked with such an unprofessional company. The online support is extremely rude and did not try to resolve my issue whatsoever. I ordered two vinyls one of which skipped very badly. They immediately blamed my equipment and ignored my emails about wanting an exchange. Really disappointed because I wanted the record but Id rather give my money to a company that stands by their product and is respectful to others. Jake is apparently the only person in there customer support team and hes very combative. Maybe there in store experience is better.
Rude people. No attempt to resolve issues / inquiries. Decent online selection, but I’d spend my money elsewhere.
Loved this spot! Selection is better than reckless! Employees are also very helpful and know exactly what you’re looking for!! Definitely coming back
I love this place! Great people running it and a huge selection of used and new material! Local and Worldwide!
Scalpers. Over price items and holds to records until places sell out. Also, overprice fake and bootleg records. They sell for $40 and Shuga resells for $90+ dont be fooled. Shady business. Rip off RSD titles.
I’ve been a customer at Shuga for years. I’ve bought records from them, attended events, and called when I had a question. The Shuga family are all wonderful and without a doubt a necessary stop in Chicago!
Ive shopped in the store and online. The in person staff is great and their online shipping is also amazing.
Good selection of both new and used records. All genres and good prices too.
The staff is super helpful and recommended some great vinyls from local bands. Oh yeah they have a small section of vinyls from local bands! Also love the way the whole space is sectioned, makes everything easier. 😄
One of the best record stores Ive ever been to. They have an amazing selection, some very exclusive cuts you wont find anywhere else. Very much worth a visit if you find yourself in the area.
Always an amazing place to stop by for records
Best place in Chicago to pick up a record
I love their huge selection! I appreciate all the bootleg imports that are a hassle to get online as well. Theres things I didnt realize I wanted!
The fams favorite vinyl shop. Always something to find and listen!
Awesome record store! Great selection of vinyl at great prices. I have been able to a number of hard-to-find records for my collection. Online orders are processed and shipped quickly. Everything has arrived in perfect condition and faster than estimated when ordered. Cant recommend enough!
Amazing variety in punk/metal, plus a specific section for local talent. Some cassettes and equipment available. Super close to the blue line, solid stop if youre in the area.
The staff is friendly and knowledgeable especially Austin. He is very friendly
Probably the best place in town to buy new vinyl. The selection is vast but not the cheapest. Used section leaves little to be desired but thats ok cause I come here for the new and I usually leave with at least one record. Parking is tight but if you play your cards right you can walk to 3 record shops from one spot.
5 star all the way, great selection and staff is always super helpful & friendly, big fan of Shuga
Awesome first experience with Shuga! Ordered some vinyl online that I haven’t been able to find here locally (Indiana) Placed my order late Wednesday night and received them both the following Monday! Will definitely be visiting the next time I’m in Chicago! Thank you!
Very helpful and laid back staff that are willing to assist you in finding what youre looking for! Huge selection of new and used music.
Easily the best selection I’ve seen at any record store I’ve been too along with awesome staff and organization! From out of town and will be sure to visit every time I’m around!!!
Shuga Records is by far my favorite place to go record shopping. The owner is awesome and the employees are really helpful with finding records and even suggestions. They are always playing some cool tunes while you browse as well. They really keep ya coming back!
Big selection of records friendly and knowledgeable people who know about everything check it out very cool.
Had a great experience.
Good music, all kind, vinyls, cassette, CDs... You can find almost everything, second hand stuff... Electronic music like minimal, techno, Idm, jungle, drumnbass, electro, house, deep house, break beat, ambient and more. But also death, thrash metal, grindcore, heavy, hardcore, rock, indie, pop ... Prepare yourself for wandering around there for hours if you like music!
Love this place!
These guys awesome. Top notch customer service. Very knowledgeable and helpful. Would highly recommend over other stores in the area
I love shopping here. The folks behind the counter are the type who will swap tips about new music and share their love of vinyl as they ring up your purchase. The selection of both new and used vinyl is solid, and the musical acts are always a worthwhile experience. Plus, the store gets points for managing Record Store Day well, giving everything a fair shot at buying a treasure.
Offers an excellent selection of records for people with any musical tastes. Keeps a stock of both recent releases and random oddities to keep the sense of adventure going while you browse. I only wish they could offer to order out-of-stock items to keep me from checking Amazon.
I found a lot of stuff here I have had trouble finding elsewhere.
Excellent selection
Bought a vinyl online from here and it arrived in one piece, 5 stars (:
Highly recommended. Bought an album I couldn’t find anywhere that’s pretty rare online from Shuga Recorda and received it only after like 2 days priority shipping.
Nice selection of records in every format both old an newly mastered, a few tapes but not too many. Staff was polite and helpful
Great record store. Incredible variety
Great spot to dig and great people!!! #staydiggin
So many records! So little space! Nice shop but very small.
This is the best record store in Chicago. Period. They always have the best selection of records, including rare and special records.The records are fairly priced. The staff are always nice and helpful. The store has a lot of cool events that happen all-year round like signings, acoustic gigs, release parties, all kinds of stuff. And the owner, Adam, is an awesome guy who cares a lot about customers. I always go out of my way to shop at this record store no matter where I live in the city because its just the best, and I want to support a great local business. Shuga Records is my favorite place to go in Chicago.
Got a refund from overseas after a small misunderstanding. Friendly people !
Ive lived in Wicker Park about 2 years now I I can say this is my favorite record store in Chicago. It may not be the largest selection out there but the quality of record selection is always amazing. Every time im in there I strike up great conversations with the employees and they always recommend new music for me. They have a great local music selection and great in store performances from the hottest act around. Pop in and take a look for yourself!
Nice selection
Borderline aggressive staff. Wont be shopping here again.
They have a decent section of hip hop, front and center. Be sure to wander to the back of the store, great discount records section.. check out the glass case back there
Great selection + service
A definite stop for any audiophile. I found some very rare treasures that I had been searching for and could never find. Priced well and they have a great selection. Next time Im visiting Chicago, I cant wait to come back and see what other gems I can uncover!
Nice little shop!! Was greeted by two nice young ladies at the front and were glad to see a customer, great selection, good for a Prince collector like me, as they have a lot of his vinyl! Kinda expensive, but thats all of Wicker Park, still a great shop, will be back!!
Shuga Records is an excellent vinyl shop, both online and also their Chicago store. They have a great selection that covers all tastes. Prices are very competitive relative to the quality of their stock. The times I’ve been there, the staff placed a much higher priority on making sure I got what I wanted rather than just making a sale. The Chicago store is set up so you can easily browse their online selection while you’re there.
Shuga is the best record store period. Its a record store straight out of the 90s minus the music elitist. You always feel welcome, they always have the best in new and a ton of used vinyls. Plus they understand the internet. Their online store mimics their actual store as far as inventory goes and its top notch.Pro tip; their instagram is the best thing ever, if you live in Chicago you have to follow to find out the latest in music, in store performances, specials and sometimes free tickets!
Always have something I wasnt looking for :)
I live far away from Shuga Records so I ordered online. I have never received better communication about an order. I received my order very quickly and my records arrived in perfect condition. Im very happy and it was a great purchasing experience.
Great space, excellent staff, and their collection of vinyl is superbly curated. If you cant find it at Shuga...thats okay, theyll probably order it for you. Check it out and also swing by next door for another cool shop, and finish off your spree with a bite at Angry Crab. There, a full Wicker Park experience.
Recently returned a record. They were up front with the return policy, and not only followed up on their original agreement but were very helpful after the fact. The woman who helped me (brown short hair with a nose ring) was AWESOME; extremely helpful. You guys rock!
Very helpful on the phone and they had a record I couldnt find at any other stores in Los Angeles.Definitely has lots of gems!!!
I first visited Shuga randomly in January of 2016 while spending the evening with one of my best friends. The minute we found both The World is a Beautiful Place and Yung Lean records made us both realize this place is truly magical. Ive found everything in this store ranging from Lil B to black metal classics I now own on vinyl. Whenever someone asks what the best record store (or place to buy music in general) is in Chicago, I will immediately proclaim the word of Shuga.
Has those new hot vinyl releases when other places dont. Listening stations which is good because youre going to find a bunch of stuff youve never heard of. Highly reccomend browsing online catalogue too, which they keep upstairs and will happily grab copies for you to check out/listen. Great place to discover music.
By far my favorite record store to go to, ever!! I love it so much, I always find what Im looking for, and the workers are great! Record Store Day turned out beautifully, and the live music was awesome! I love this place so much, I wish I could go here everyday.
This place is awesome. Such a cool vibe on the inside. Awesome artwork and super sweet display shelves not to mention an awesome selection that fills them. If they dont have it they will find it. Theyve got a great online selection too. A must stop for all your vinyl needs
Good selection and staff was very helpful
Lots of record stores in Chicago, but this is my favorite. Always a great selection of everything I want but not too overwhelming. I spoke with the owner, Adam, yesterday and he was incredibly friendly and helpful in regards to recommending records based upon my taste. Cant wait to go back.
Shuga is by far my favorite record store in Chicago. The staff always has awesome recommendations and Ive discovered a lot of great new bands based off of their suggestions. Ive also found a few of my favorite records from their now playing options as well. They regularly have live shows and signings, which are always a blast and generally pretty easy to get into. Theyve done some renovations recently and vastly increased their stock. If they dont have something in stock they will often be willing to order it for you and they are open to suggestions for good selling albums as well. I also got one of my favorite mugs from them, which was made by one of the employees (a mug with an Ol Dirty Bastard record cover on it). Overall my favorite thing about going there is that they are laid back and not pretentious (which is a feeling Ive gotten at several other record stores... like Im judged if I dont know every brand new band they are talking about). They are a great store and I highly recommend stopping by and seeing what they have! Their new inventory bin is conveniently located right at the entrance...making it easy to check out the new stuff that has just come in :)
Depends on the type of music enthusiast. This place serves more hipsters and those into rock. For rare groove and vinyl this is not your record store. Nice atmosphere tho.
Great record store for more modern music. They have rock, hip hop, electronic, pop as well as the usual older records. Huge selection and always good music playing
The online service is terrible. I had a question about a vinyl that was not working properly for me, and Adam Rosen answered my emails in an unprofessional manner. Instead of trying to help me, he ended up being rude and dismissive. Work on your online customer service skills, please.
Dope people, Great selectionz
Couldnt be more pleased with the service and shipment of our vinyl. Thanks so much for making one happy kid this year at Christmas.
This is a record store that I would recommend for everyone! They are remodeling it to better serve their record communities and they take the time to help guide you through the learning process of record buying and finding. I will always be a life long costumer
Always has the latest and the best physical releases from the artists I love. Highly recommend if youre looking for limited vinyl or cassettes!
Nice layout, easy to browse & well organized. Also very clean. I came in from out of town & scored some rare gems. Friendly & welcoming staff.Great store!