Nico Sanchez Founder of Black Noise Records

Nico Sanchez founded Black Noise Records in 2016 after relocating to Bellingham for college. The label fosters local underground musicians and promotes physical media ownership, addressing a growing demand for curated music collections. Sanchez, who performs as OG Neeks, highlights the store's focus on genres like Blues and Hip-Hop/Rap, which resonate with the community. Black Noise also organizes all-ages album release parties and provides a platform for vinyl DJs and hip-hop artists. Sanchez observes that the appreciation for vinyl has surged since the early 2010s, as people seek ownership in a streaming-dominated music landscape.

Despite economic uncertainties, he appreciates the continuous support from the Bellingham community. The store's establishment reflects a unique niche within the local market, contrasting with the competitive Seattle scene. Sanchez believes the success of Black Noise stems from the collective effort of those who believe in its mission.