Zia Records: A look back at Arizona's quintessential record store

It’s a sad fact that many record stores — no matter how beloved they might be — tend to come and go. Zia Records, the long-running Phoenix-based chain has stuck around for 45 years and counting, becoming a staple of the local retail landscape for music lovers.

Founded by the late Brad Singer in 1980, the chain began life as Zia Used Records and Incidentals near Indian School and 19th Avenue. Singer, a die-hard music fan and record collector, launched it using vinyl hewn from his own collection and a loan from his family.

The 1,300-square-foot store had an underground vibe and a stock of quality used music. Former Zia employee Toni Koch told Phoenix New Times in 2020 that a crew of oddballs could be found both patronizing the store or working behind the counter.

“Zia was where misfits could go and feel like we were doing something of value,” Koch says.
Zia grew exponentially from its humble origins, expanding from a single location to Tempe and other parts of the Valley and Arizona throughout the ’80s and ’90s. It became a go-to spot to buy new and used music and a cultural and retail empire, generating $15 million in sales annually by the mid-’90s. The brand also launched its own in-house distribution company (Impact Music), a design studio (CHUD Graphics) and an indie label (Epiphany Records).

After founder Brad Singer’s death in 1998, Zia weathered a turbulent stretch marked by ownership changes and the post-Napster implosion of the record industry. The chain adapted, diversifying into collectibles and various forms of new and used media. It later benefited from the vinyl revival that began in the late 2000s. These days, Zia operates eight stores across Phoenix, Tucson and Las Vegas.

In celebration of Zia’s 45th anniversary in 2025 here’s a nostalgic look back at its origins and rise to prominence.