By Miggy Aguilar and Melisa Rodriguez
Graphic by Maya Uribe
On Oct. 11 American Pie Records located in Old Town Camarillo opens their cafe adding to their record store! The cafe offers more than just your typical coffee experience because you can enjoy music while sipping on freshly brewed coffee and savoring homemade pies, embodying a space where community meets creativity. Whether you’re in the mood to browse records or relax with a warm drink, American Pie Records aims to become a go-to destination for locals and visitors alike. We had the opportunity to speak with Mike Curtis, the owner of American Pie Records, to discuss his journey and the vision behind this innovative concept.
“I’ve always been a record collector,” Curtis shared. After spending 17 years as an attorney, he seized the chance to purchase a closing record store. “I liked the idea of working to develop Old Town Camarillo into more of a scene,” he explained. When asked what he enjoys most about his work, Curtis expressed a passion for exploring music. “I love exploring and learning about different parts of music, specifically when it’s recorded onto vinyl. You listen to one artist, and you notice that a song is actually written by a different artist. So then you go check out this other artist.” This analytical side of music fuels his enthusiasm for the industry.
A significant aspect of the American Pie experience is the new café, which Curtis envisions as “half a record store and a live music venue.” He noted, “I wanted to provide something where people could enjoy the world I live in without necessarily having to spend hundreds or thousands of dollars getting into collecting.” This combination aims to attract those who may not own a turntable or extensive vinyl collections.
We also spoke with Eliza Lew, a first-year business major at CI, who shared her thoughts on the innovative concept of combining a record store with a café. During our interview, Lew enthusiastically expressed her excitement about this unique establishment, saying, “I think it’s awesome. I think it’s never been done before.” Lew noted the significance of this combination, particularly for communities like Ventura County, emphasizing its potential to support diverse groups: “I think it’s great for… the queer community. Yes, and for all the music lovers.”
As for the future of live performances at the café, Curtis shared that they are committed to showcasing original music. “The focus is to not have cover bands but to have people playing original music.” He plans to host performances every Friday and Saturday, with an emphasis on local talent. “Tonight, two jazz bands are playing,” he noted, mentioning talented students from California State University Northridge and Moorpark College.
When it comes to the record selection at American Pie, Curtis prides himself on curating a diverse and impressive collection. “I have way more better vintage records,” he stated, contrasting his store with others in Ventura County. He explained that the café also showcases specific genres like jazz and country, with plans to expand the collection.
As for the café’s menu, Curtis mentioned some popular items. “The cherry bomb is very popular, which is kind of named after the song by The Runaways,” he said, describing an iced latte with vanilla ice cream and cherry syrup. “We opened with 80 or 90 pies and sold them out in three days,” he added, highlighting the café’s initial success.
Curtis also shared his thoughts on vinyl and its unique appeal. “The magic of vinyl is… a really nice clean record on a really nice turntable played through nice speakers. It’s the best sound you can get.” He emphasized that while streaming services offer convenience, having a physical collection provides a more immersive experience. “It’s also way more immersive to take out a record, put it on, and hold the sleeve.”
Lew also weighed in on the allure of vinyl. “There’s something special about the way records sound. It feels more personal,” he said. “You can feel the music in a different way compared to digital.” Supporting local businesses is also a priority for Lew. She articulated the importance of community involvement, stating, “It’s important because… it’s not a corporation. These are real people… putting people’s best interests at heart.” She appreciates the personal touch of local establishments and noted that it contributes to a sense of comfort, saying, “There’s a real person with a whole life and a livelihood that they’re supporting behind.”
Lew’s passion for local businesses is rooted in her studies as a business major, where she recognizes the mutual support between entrepreneurs and their communities. “If I were to ever have my own business, I would hope to get that support from my community as well,” she shared, emphasizing the significance of nurturing local ties in smaller communities like Ventura County.
In all, American Pie Records and Café is set to become a vibrant hub for music lovers in Camarillo, combining a record store with live performances and community connection. Curtis’s vision of a welcoming atmosphere invites patrons to explore music while enjoying quality food and drinks. With a focus on original music and fostering relationships between artists and audiences, Curtis aims to establish American Pie as a cultural staple in the area—a place where the love of music thrives and the community unites.
For more information on upcoming events and offerings, check out their website and social media pages. Make sure to also watch our broadcasting video from the event!
Website: America pie records
Instagram: @americanpierecords
