Today we’d like to introduce you to Bill (Dr. Strange) Plaster.
Hi Bill (Dr. Strange), it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I started Dr. Strange Records, as a mail order business for rare and out of print punk records, out of my one bedroom apartment in 1988. A year label I started a record label as well. After years of hard work, I finally, in 1997, opened up a retail storefront in Rancho Cucamonga that still specializes in rare punk, metal, new wave and ska. We also sell tons of clothing; Creepers, Boots, Belts as well as posters, stickers, patches and so much more.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
When I started, Ronald Reagan was still in office! I’ve seen good times and bad in the 32 years of running Dr. Strange but the things that has kept me going is sheer determination and realistic goals. As well as very loyal and great customers!
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Although we specialize in what I love; early 80’s Punk Rock we do carry new releases as well and many other related genres; Metal, Ska, Pyschobilly, Two-Tone and New Wave. One of the many things that makes the store unique is that it is an unusual place. The building was built in 1906 and at one time was the first post office in the city. I’ve done my best to make Dr Strange Records not only a record store but a punk rock museum. It’s littered with old original “artifacts” from my personal collection including rare ’77 posters, a Cuckoo’s Next Bouncer’s t-shirt, The Anti-Club marquee sign and so much more. Oh and plus we have the best mascot in the world; Jinx the cat. A spunky black cat with a ton of attitude that lives there has his own Facebook page and now a limited beer! And we’ve been doing “LiveStrange” for over three years now. It’s basically QVC for Punk Rock with stupid jokes thrown in. Every Wednesday and Friday on FB and IG at 4:00 pacific.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I have traveled around the world and I can honestly say there is no place like Southern California. In particular Rancho Cucamonga [40 miles east of L.A.]. I was born in Southern California and will die here! There really isn’t anything “bad” about it but if I “had” to nit-pick; heat in the summer and traffic? But both are well worth it!
Contact Info:
- Address: 7136 Amethyst Ave Alta Loma, CA 91701
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.drstrange.com
- Instagram: @drstrangerecords
- Facebook: Dr Strange Record Store
Image Credits
Chachi
