Hello, Kankakee County and music lovers everywhere! Today’s episode of the Kankakee Podcast hits just the right note—a story of family, dedication, and the unifying power of music. We’re celebrating the enduring legacy and community impact of one of Kankakee’s cornerstones: King Music. Join me, Jake LaMore, as I sit down with Randy King and Ben King to reflect on over four decades of musical memories, challenges, and triumphs in Kankakee County.
King Music: A Community Pillar Since 1981
Since its founding in 1981, King Music has been more than just a retailer—it’s been an educational hub, a gathering place, and a touchstone for thousands of musicians, families, and educators throughout the area. From its humble beginnings renting a storefront on Broadway to its current status as the go-to music store in town, King Music’s journey is a testament to vision, perseverance, and heart.
Rooted in Family and Education
Randy King recalls King Music’s early days:
“We would sit at night talking about what a music store might be like, not like they have traditionally been, but one that would focus on music education first.”
This commitment to teaching wasn’t just a business plan—it was a passion born from Randy and his brother Dave’s own musical upbringing in Kankakee, guided by supportive parents and a vibrant local band scene. Over the years, the King family tradition has continued, with Ben King now stepping into leadership and carrying on their educational mission.
Adapting and Growing Through Change
King Music has weathered economic recessions, the rise of internet retail, and the COVID-19 pandemic by staying agile and connected to its customers. As Randy shared:
“We’re just trying to keep ourselves as a viable local option and still provide what we can while we can.”
Ben King echoed the importance of evolving, especially by embracing online rentals, strengthening King Music’s digital presence, and diversifying its services—from consignment to expert instrument repairs.
Generational Transitions and Community Bonds
Transitioning ownership from one generation to the next hasn’t always been easy, especially following the loss of Dave, a beloved figure in the business. Ben King has taken the reins with care and commitment, supported by Randy:
“He’s taking on huge amounts of responsibility and I really thank him for that…He’s got to learn to take it on, and it’s a daily process.”
What stands out is the deep appreciation for community support that has buoyed King Music during hard times. “We have a wonderful customer base and we have wonderful people who have serviced these people,” Randy emphasized.
Lasting Impact: Stories, Lessons, and Local Roots
From legendary finds—like rare vintage violins and high-value guitars brought in for repair—to the annual “Strings for Food” drive benefitting local food pantries, King Music’s influence on Kankakee’s cultural life runs deep.
“King Music is just such a local treasure…there’s not. It’s hard to look at something in the area that’s artistic and not see King Music attached to it,” I shared toward the end of our chat.
But perhaps the most profound legacy is the ripple effect of music education. Through decades of lessons, recitals, and support for school programs, King Music has helped generations find their musical voices and connect to something bigger than themselves.
Looking Ahead
As King Music approaches its 45th anniversary, the future is rooted in the same community-focused values:
“Continuing to educate people why it’s so important to shop local…All we want is an opportunity to continue to provide as much music and not drive down every street at Christmas time and see multiple guitar and keyboard boxes that came from someplace else. We have the same thing right here in the Kankakee area.” —Randy King
Thank You
Thank you for tuning in as we celebrate the people, stories, and sounds that make up the heartbeat of King Music. Whether you’re a band kid, a gigging musician, or just humming along, remember: when you support local businesses like King Music, you’re helping to keep our community vibrant and creative.
If you haven’t already, hit that subscribe button to the Kankakee Podcast, leave us a rating or review, and join us on social media for more stories from the heart of Kankakee County. And to our generous sponsors (including King Music!), and all who support us on Patreon, like Stephanie Vanderweid—your encouragement keeps the music playing!
Until next time, this is Jake LaMore, signing off and inviting you to support your local music store, keep making music, and stay tuned for more stories that matter.
