Backspin Records: Jay Cee Rock Spins Passion Into Black-Owned Vinyl Haven

MIDDLESEX, N.J. — In Middlesex, Backspin Records is spinning more than vinyl, serving as a community hub built on decades of musical passion. Jerome Walker, known in the music world as Jay Cee Rock, opened Backspin Records in December 2023, turning a lifelong passion for music into a vibrant hub for the community.

Walker’s journey with music began in 1983, his freshman year of high school, when he started DJing. Over the years, he built experience performing with a rap group and producing music, but owning a record store was always a “bucket list item,” he said.

“I found this spot online, and it wasn’t too expensive. I said, if I’m ever gonna do it, the time is now. Tomorrow’s not guaranteed,” Walker explained.

Backspin Records reflects Walker’s personal tastes, with a heavy focus on R&B, jazz, soul, and even salsa, alongside a smaller rock section. 

“This is my baby,” he said. “It’s an extension of me. I’m going to put up some jazz I love, play Black artists on the TV—whatever I want, unapologetically.”

The store also fills a unique niche: Black-owned record shops remain rare in the United States, accounting for roughly 1% nationwide. Walker said he is the only one in New Jersey, a distinction he embraces.

Vinyl culture remains central to the store’s appeal, despite the rise of digital music.

“I like the physicality of it. The pictures, the information, even the sound quality, it’s a conversation piece. Records go up in value. For me, it’s an investment, a way to connect with the music on a deeper level,” Walker said.

Backspin Records attracts a diverse clientele, from local collectors to DJs traveling from as far as Connecticut and Baltimore. Popular genres include rock, soul, jazz, salsa, and reggae. Rare finds, like a $700 Betty Loose record from New Orleans, add excitement for seasoned collectors.

Community support has been essential, and Walker encourages patrons to engage beyond browsing. “I do live DJ sets, and I try to open the space for gatherings. People come to see DJs, hang out, watch sports, and enjoy the community. It helps me stay motivated,” he said.

Walker said Black-owned businesses often face an uphill battle, with limited visibility and inconsistent community support contributing to high failure rates.

“There aren’t many, and many fail because we don’t support them as much as we can. Even small actions—coming into the store or making a purchase—make a difference,” he said.

Owning a business comes with challenges, including high overhead and tight profit margins. Walker draws from experience, having previously run a sandwich shop that closed after a year and a half. That venture taught him to work independently, and he now approaches Backspin Records with a clear vision: personal passion over profit.

Looking ahead, Walker plans to expand Backspin Records into fashion and pressing vinyl for other artists, collaborating with producers and DJs, including Large Professor, known for his work with NAS. He also has a record release in the works with The Awesome Two, a duo that ran a field fitness radio station in the ’80s and ’90s.

“The love of records and music keeps me going,” Walker said. “I want to leave my name in the history books and share my passion with others. I’m not doing this to get rich. I’m doing it because I love it.”

Supporters can follow Backspin Records on Instagram and visit the store for records, DJ events, and community gatherings. With his dedication and unique perspective, Jay Cee Rock has created more than a record store, he’s built a cultural hub that celebrates Black music and vinyl culture.

This story is part of NJ Urban News’ Black Business Spotlight, uplifting Black-owned excellence across New Jersey. Know a business we should feature? Email us at editorial@njurbannews.com