Breaking News: Tennant of the Pet Shop Boys Reacts to Closure of JG Windows Music Store in Newcastle
In an emotional statement today, Neil Tennant of the Pet Shop Boys has expressed his sadness and surprise at the closure of JG Windows, a beloved Newcastle-based independent music store that has been a staple of the city’s music scene for decades.
JG Windows, known for its vast collection of vinyl records, CDs, and music memorabilia, has served as a cultural hub for music lovers in the North East of England. Founded in 1977, the store has seen generations of music fans come through its doors, offering everything from mainstream hits to obscure indie gems. However, after years of economic challenges, the store announced it would be closing its doors for good.
Tennant, who grew up in the North East and has long been a champion of independent music shops, shared his thoughts on the news with fans and the media.
“It’s incredibly sad to hear about JG Windows closing,” Tennant said. “It’s one of those places that was a lifeline for so many of us who were passionate about music. It wasn’t just about buying records; it was about the community it created—the conversations, the discoveries, the connection to the music scene. A huge part of Newcastle’s cultural landscape is disappearing, and that’s a real loss.”
Tennant went on to reflect on his own memories of shopping at JG Windows, recalling how the store was a key part of his early music journey. “Growing up in Newcastle, it was one of those places where you could always find something new and exciting. I remember spending hours there, discovering albums that weren’t available anywhere else. It was more than just a store; it was a part of the city’s soul.”
JG Windows has faced growing competition from online retailers and the changing habits of music consumers in recent years. Despite efforts to adapt, including hosting in-store events and live performances, the store ultimately couldn’t overcome the pressures of modern retail.
Tennant’s tribute to the store comes at a time when independent music stores across the UK are facing similar struggles, with many shuttering due to financial pressures exacerbated by the rise of digital music platforms and streaming services.
For many, the closing of JG Windows is a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving spaces that foster creativity, culture, and community—something Tennant has long championed in his music career.
“Independent record stores like JG Windows are vital to the music ecosystem,” Tennant continued. “They’re the places where new artists get discovered, where music fans connect with each other, and where the love of music is passed down through the generations. It’s a real shame that we’re losing one of the last true refuges for music lovers in Newcastle.”
The closure of JG Windows marks the end of an era for Newcastle’s music scene, but for many, the impact of the store—and its place in the hearts of music fans—will never be forgotten.
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