In the heart of Lower Haight, a musical sanctuary stands resilient against the digital streaming tsunami. Rooky Ricardo’s, a beloved vinyl record shop, is facing its toughest battle yet as owner Dick Vivian confronts Stage 3 pancreatic cancer.

For 38 years, Vivian has been more than just a record store owner, he’s been a cultural curator, a musical historian, and a snarky San Francisco icon who’s known for his brutally honest haircut commentary. Now, he’s fighting a medical war while keeping his beloved shop’s spirit alive, even if it means reducing operations to weekends.

A Vinyl Rebellion in the Streaming Era

In a world dominated by Spotify playlists and digital algorithms, Rooky Ricardo’s remains a testament to analog authenticity. Vivian’s philosophy is simple: vinyl isn’t just music, it’s an experience. “People are coming back, regretting getting rid of their records and wanting to recreate their library,” he once told GQ, capturing the nostalgic pulse of music lovers.

Community Comes Together

A GoFundMe campaign has emerged, not just as a financial lifeline but as a love letter to Vivian. Supporters are asked to contribute if he’s ever “insulted your haircut in the funniest way” or handed you that perfect record that traveled through your life’s most intimate moments.

Fighting Spirit

Despite ongoing chemotherapy at UCSF, Vivian’s passion remains unbroken. Rooky Ricardo’s might have reduced hours, but its soul continues to spin, much like the vinyl records that have defined its legacy.