Next level music store: We checked out Swee Lee Clarke Quay's vinyl stations, cafe and bar, and more

Growing up, my visits to music stores were solely for acquiring instruments or sheet music. So when I was invited to explore local music retailer Swee Lee’s newly opened store at Clarke Quay, I wasn’t expecting a large crowd of people to be there. However, to my surprise, the space was already bustling with patrons on a late Friday afternoon.

Situated within a former warehouse in the recently rejuvenated Clarke Quay neighbourhood, Swee Lee’s third and newest store looks to transcend the typical music store experience. The colour palette and furniture selection exuded a contemporary vibe. Additionally, the rooftop featured see-through glass panels, allowing natural light to flood the space. 

The crowd comprised mainly young people. Most of the vinyl listening stations were occupied by couples and singles, immersed in the music, sipping beverages, and occasionally capturing moments with their cameras.

For a "music store", it certainly was buzzy. There were patrons working on their laptops, others engaged in conversation and some simply enjoying the ambiance. Some were passionately jamming on guitars, and a group of young guys was experimenting at the creator’s corner, making their own music on a keyboard. 

The brand behind this store is widely regarded as one of the most trusted names in the music industry in Singapore and Southeast Asia. Founded in Singapore more than 75 years ago, Swee Lee has evolved beyond its origins as a mere music store.

While I enjoy the occasional guitar-strumming or piano-playing, I wouldn't call myself an expert. But it doesn't really matter if you're a musician or not because the environment didn't feel intimidating. Whether you're there for music or to just to grab a coffee and unwind, it felt inclusive and welcoming. 

Here's a rundown of some of the highlight at the brand new store:

1. VINYL LISTENING STATIONS

Vinyl records are no longer a thing of the past. Increasingly, cafes and bars in Singapore are introducing the concept of vinyl listening, offering patrons a space to enjoy a drink while immersing themselves in the music.

With a library of over 500 vinyl records to choose from, audiophiles can lose themselves in the vinyl listening stations at Swee Lee Clarke Quay, while enjoying a cup of coffee or a glass of wine. There are stations designed for couples with dual audio inputs, as well as a dedicated area for the singles. 

If you're a Swee Lee Rewards member, you get an hour's worth of listening to any record with any in-store purchase. Non-members need to pay S$10 on top of any purchase.

2. ARTIST LOUNGE

This by-appointment-only service that was previously at the Star Vista outlet is now here. Musicians can book the space for jam sessions, casual gatherings or for even creating video content with local and touring artists. The lounge also features a "guitar cellar", with an impressive collection of instruments that are also for sale. You’ll find replicas of some iconic guitars such as the Jerry Garcia Alligator Stratocaster and PRS Private Stock John McLaughlin, as well as pieces from the Fender and Heritage Custom Shop.

3. CREATOR CORNER

Want to experience the life of a live streaming musician? Here, creators and aspiring artists get some hands-on demos of microphones, speakers, headphones, synthesizers and other essential equipment. They can also experiment with social music creation platform BandLab and see the on-screen results.

4. THE GREAT HALL

This space takes centre stage at the store. It's got a DJ console, ample seating areas and even multiple video projectors, which makes it versatile enough for various events, whether it's album and product launches or movie screenings or town hall meetings.

By day, patrons can relax with refreshments or work on their laptops. By night, the ambiance shifts, and it could be a place for private dinners intimate concerts or artist meet-and-greet events.

5. CAFE AND BAR

You've got locally roasted coffee by Flip Coffee Roasters (the artisans behind the beans are musicians themselves). If you're craving for something more boozy, the award-winning bar Employees Only Singapore has curated an exclusive menu inspired by music genres. Prefer wine? The bar also boasts a selection of natural wines.

And let’s not forget about food – there's an all-day brunch menu offering options such as a spinach and cheese toastie, and a variety of waffles for something sweeter.

6. RETAIL

And, of course, where it all began for Swee Lee. From guitars and accessories to amps, the store houses over 150 of the most sought-after brands, including Fender, Taylor, Ibanez, MONO and Roland.

There's also an area dedicated to merchandise featuring musicians such as the Sex Pistols, The Beatles, Ed Sheeran and more. So, if there's a concert in town and you'd thinking of skipping the merch queue at the venue, you might just be able to find what you're looking for here. If you're pressed for time, they've got a Click and Collect service for your online purchases.