Richmond isn’t flashy. Its culture doesn’t scream for attention; it waits for you to find it. Vinyl Conflict is a record shop that doesn’t just sling albums but actively shapes the city’s music scene, funding releases, hosting shows, and putting Richmond’s artists on the map.
Myles Black, a senior at VCU and local music fan, discovered that firsthand when he stepped into the shop. “I’ve always been deeply into music—all kinds of music—but particularly hip-hop, hardcore/punk, and sometimes thrash,” he says.
While interning at MSQ Shop, Myles helped with a few videos for Nickelus F’s album MMCHT. When he saw that Nick and Vinyl Conflict were pressing the album on vinyl and hosting a release party, he knew he had to be there. “The album is fire,” he says plainly.
At the party, Myles met Bobby Egger, the shop’s owner, and caught an impromptu performance by Nick himself. “As someone who has made music myself, I was so hype to see a local record store pressing a local artist. That moment stuck with me.”
When Myles’ documentary filmmaking class required him to create a short film, the subject was a no-brainer. He returned to Vinyl Conflict and pitched the idea. “I wanted it to be about something I loved, and new to me. I came back to Vinyl Conflict and I asked Bobby if I could make a short documentary on the store, he gave me his email and I came by one day before they opened and filmed it.”
Myles dove into the process headfirst, producing and shooting solo. “I learned a ton through the process, start to finish. To not be afraid to just ask—the worst thing you’ll hear is ‘no,’ and if you do—try again and do it even better!”
The experience not only sharpened Myles’ skills but deepened his connection to Richmond’s creative scene. “It sounds kind of corny, but Richmond is so rich with culture that’s hidden in the nooks of the city. It’s straight up awesome.”
If you want to see more from Myles, check him out on Instagram (@halfroblack) or YouTube HERE.
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