Area Records and Music in Geneva to close after 40 years

GENEVA, N.Y. -- An independent music store in the Finger Lakes region is closing its doors for good after 40 years in business.

Mikel George, the owner of Area Records and Music in Geneva, says he decided to retire on the same date as the shop's 40th anniversary.

He opened the store back in 1977 as a small record shop. The shop was featured in a VH1 Behind the Music episode in 2012 that profiled Gym Class Heroes, a band started in Geneva. George says the shop became a frequent stop for music legends performing in the Finger Lakes.

To give back to customers and say goodbye, he'll start a liquidation sale on September 15. The store will remain open until most merchandise is sold.