Greenwich, London, is now home to an exciting new addition to its music scene: Tom's Guitar Shop. Opened in mid-August 2024 by local guitarist and music enthusiast Tommy Smith, this shop promises to bring a unique blend of international expertise and hometown charm to the heart of Greenwich.
Tommy Smith's love for music and guitars began on the streets of Greenwich, where he spent his childhood dreaming of one day owning his own guitar shop. His passion and talent led him across the Atlantic to Nashville, where he gained invaluable experience as the lead guitarist and vocalist for the renowned band Leogun.
With Leogun, Tom achieved significant milestones, such as opening for the legendary KISS, and releasing their critically acclaimed debut album "By the Reins" in 2013. Leogun's music (see video below), described as a neo-retro sound with a hard-edged, energetic style, aimed to bring a sense of male confidence and sexuality back to modern rock. The band drew inspiration from a wide range of artists while carving out their own unique niche.
Tommy's time in Nashville not only honed his skills as a musician but also deepened his understanding of guitar craftsmanship and the music industry. He immersed himself in the city's rich musical heritage, learning from some of the best in the business and refining his vision for what a truly exceptional guitar shop could be.
In 2023, inspired by his experiences in Nashville and driven by a lifelong dream, Tommy returned to his hometown determined to create a guitar shop that would combine his local roots with his international expertise. Tom's Guitar Shop was born, and it has already generated buzz among local musicians eager to experience the unique environment Tom has curated.
The shop offers an impressive range of guitars, from vintage classics to modern marvels, each hand-selected by Tom himself to ensure the highest quality. Customers will also find a carefully curated selection of accessories, with both expert repair services and lessons taught by seasoned professionals coming soon.
The guitar retail industry has undergone significant changes in recent years, presenting both challenges and opportunities for businesses like Tom's Guitar Shop.
One notable development is Fender's move towards a direct-to-consumer model, which has led to legal issues for the company in the UK. In January 2020, the UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) fined Fender £4.5 million for engaging in resale price maintenance, restricting retailers' ability to offer discounts on Fender products. This move has raised concerns among retailers about the potential impact on their businesses.
Meanwhile, Gibson, another industry giant, emerged from a 2018 bankruptcy and is charting a new course. In February 2024, the company opened the Gibson Garage in London, a 4,500-square-foot showroom and interactive space designed to celebrate Gibson's legacy while engaging with a new generation of musicians.
Despite these shifts, Tommy remains confident in his vision for the shop. "The guitar retail landscape is evolving, but there will always be a place for businesses that prioritize quality, expertise, and a genuine love for the instrument," he says. "We're not just here to present guitars; we're here to support and grow the London music scene."
The UK guitar retail industry is known for its diverse mix of independent shops and larger chains, each with its own unique character and approach.
One notable player is Andertons Music Co., based in Guildford, Surrey. Andertons has built a strong reputation through its extensive online presence, including a popular YouTube channel with over 915,000 subscribers, and its commitment to providing exceptional in-store experiences. The company's success is built on a foundation of family values, a passion for music, and a deep understanding of its customers' needs.
Denmark Street, London's "Tin Pan Alley," is another hub for guitar enthusiasts, with its concentration of independent music shops and rich history. Despite facing challenges from rising rents and redevelopment in recent years, Denmark Street remains a key destination for musicians seeking rare and vintage instruments.
Tom's Guitar Shop aims to carve out its own unique space in this competitive landscape by focusing on what sets it apart: Tommy's extensive experience in Nashville, his deep roots in the Greenwich community, and his commitment to providing a carefully curated selection of high-quality instruments and personalized service."I've been fortunate to learn from some of the best in the business, both in Nashville and here in the UK," Tommy says. "I want to bring that level of expertise and passion to every interaction with our clients, whether they're seasoned pros or newly embarking on their musical journey."
Stepping into Tom's Guitar Shop is an experience unlike any other. The walls are lined with a stunning array of guitars, each with its own story to tell, there's something for every taste and playing style. But it's not just about the instruments themselves. Tommy has created a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere where musicians of all levels can come together to share their passion for music. Whether you're seeking expert advice on choosing the perfect guitar, looking to take your playing to the next level, or simply want to connect with other like-minded individuals, Tom's Guitar Shop is the place to be. "I want this to be more than just a shop," Tommy explains. "I want it to be a hub for the local music community, a place where people can come to learn, grow, and inspire one another."
Located in the heart of Greenwich, at the southern end of the historic Greenwich Market, as Tommy puts it, "There's nothing quite like the moment you pick up a guitar and realize it's the one. That's the feeling I want every client to have when they walk into our showroom. It's about finding the right instrument and it's about connecting with something bigger than yourself, a shared love of music that brings people together."
Tom's Guitar Shop, unit 15, Greenwich Market, London, SE10 9HZ
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