So Long, 2016, and Thanks for all the… Um… Actually: Good Riddance

So another year is in the books. This one will no doubt be remembered for one of the most divisive Presidential election campaigns in recent – heck, in the nation’s – history, and with the results of that process comes all attendant uncertainty, fear, hopefulness, or whatever else (depending on your own political leanings).

On top of that, the past 12 months have been absolutely brutal when it comes to the sheer number of musical icons who have passed. Whether your tastes lean towards Bowie, Cohen, Prince, Haggard, Katner, Frey, and/or all/some of the above (or others), it’s been a pretty rough trip around the sun.

I do my best to keep my ear to the ground with respect to all things MI and have some guesses as to what 2016 represented and what the coming months will hold for our industry, but as with recent years, I’m going to defer to those who really represent “boots on the ground” in musical instrument retail – the dealers, themselves.

Below are some of the observations and comments that didn’t make it into some of our other December 2016 features, but which are (very) worth noting, nonetheless. Best wishes for a safe and enjoyable holiday season to all, and here’s hoping for a profitable and positive 2017 and beyond!

“We are well positioned for the upcoming season and year as well. We have made many improvements to brick and mortar and web as well. Things are looking good.” – Sammy Ash, Sam Ash Music Corp.

“We have seen about a 17 percent increase in 2016. Taking the leap to start over in a suburban location with a fresh new look and still maintain our nearly 80-year, family-owned heritage. We are thrilled with how positive the community has responded.” – Jim Hauer, Hauer Music

“It looks like we will only get Mexican Strats if they are thrown over the wall! [pre-election comment re: Trump – Ed.]” – Sal Barone, Mr. Music

“[We are] a bit worried about all the reports on TV saying everyone is shopping for Christmas early and online.” – Stephanie Howe, Ted Brown Music Company

“I think the lack of a solid plan for internet sales tax is still an issue facing local communities and brick & mortar retailers.” – Donovan Bankhead, Springfield Music

“2016 is looking fantastic! We’re up in all categories and our end of year step-up push is remunerative.” – Dennis Howren, Howren Music

“2016 saw an increase in acoustic guitar sales and a slight decrease in amp sales compared to 2015. We focused on building our lesson & repair business, which has been incredibly beneficial in offsetting the unpredictability of merchandise sales.” – Alex Sinclair, Westwood Music

“So far Mississippi Music is up for 2016. We are celebrating MMI’s 70th anniversary this year. Our fiscal year ends in March, so we are optimistic that we will continue the trend and end March, 2017 on a good note!” – Rosi K. Johnson, Mississippi Music