OUR STORY
ABOUT SOUND BEND
Made for South Bend
Sound Bend Records was founded from a deep love of music and a belief in its power to bring people together. The idea took shape after founder Elio moved from Seattle to South Bend through the Make My Move program and the South Bend–Elkhart partnership. Coming from a lifelong passion for collecting vinyl and more than a decade in the advertising world, Elio saw an opportunity to fill a gap in the local music scene.
Inspired by the sense of belonging he first experienced at Easy Street Records in West Seattle Junction, Elio set out to create a space that could do the same in downtown South Bend: a welcoming, creative hub where locals could connect, discover, and share in the joy of music.
From the Founder of Sound Bend
I was born and raised in Seattle to immigrant parents who taught me the value of community and creativity. Music has been part of my life for as long as I can remember — from recording radio shows onto cassette tapes to making mix CDs for friends.
As a queer Hispanic man, it’s important to me that Sound Bend Records is more than a place to shop for vinyl. It’s a space where everyone feels seen, welcomed, and connected through the shared language of music.
– Elio
