By: Nicolas Kole
Until recently, music fanatics could always find their classic merchandise at Charisma.
The well-renowned vintage gear store in Calgary’s Sunnyside neighbourhood had been around for what seemed like forever, supplying pins, shirts, hats, and patches.
However, as Bob Dylan famously said, The Times They Are A-Changin’.
“I know Charisma was definitely a place in the community and had the hearts of a lot of people.” he said.
Long-time owner Simon passed away in 2022, leaving his wife Mary to take over the store. It remained active for about two years, but then it was time for Mary to move on.
Thankfully there were some who wanted to keep the legacy alive. This was the case for Ashif Suleman, owner of the classic Rock Shop Experience in Vancouver. Recently becoming the owner of that branch, it felt like the perfect opportunity to expand.
His love for music and working in the Vancouver Rock Shop made him realize even more that music fans wanted a space like this. That coupled with the timing of Mary deciding to move on from the store, meant it all worked out well.
“She was ready to retire, after her husband’s passing.” Suleman said with a sorrowness in his voice.
Despite the legacy of Charisma continuing as the Rock Shop Experience, it aims to be in different in the terms of merchandise they sell, namely newer items and different styles.
“I wouldn’t really consider it vintage, because it’s licenced merchandise,” Suleman said.
Suleman knows that the market for the Rock Shop differs from other vintage stores in Calgary and he feels that the new merchandise is more appealing, due to the fact many longtime fans already have older merchandise.
“There definitely is a difference, I don’t deal with vintage myself,” said Suleman.
Even though their merchandising is different, Suleman says he wants the experience to remain the same.
“The name of the store is The Rock Shop for a reason.” he said.
Suleman believes the attraction of the store comes from a multitude of things.
“When they walk in here and see a Grateful Dead shirt or Pantera, these are bands people grew up with and it's nostalgic for them.” he said.
In addition to nostalgia for great music, Suleman feels stores like his can be a great escape for customers especially in a crazy world.
“Whenever I’m having a bad day I turn to music, I always have music playing somewhere.” he said.
Music playing through the speakers in the shop also relates to merchandise on the wall.
Considering all the differences the store has from Charisma, there are still portions of the original store, that can be seen. This was a personal decision by Suleman to honour the original store and keep the legacy alive.
One-way Suleman honoured the former owners was by keeping the original spray paint “Charisma” sign outside untouched. Mary’s clock inside the shop is also remains untouched as a reminder of what came before.
“The original Charisma sign is still there and I’m planning to keep it, and Mary is OK with that.” Said Suleman.
Suleman also plans to sell the remaining vintage merchandise until the new stock for the Rock Shop takes over.
“One thing that’s important to us is we took over their inventory, so whatever they had here is still here.” he said.
The legacy of Charisma will be remembered by music fanatics from YYC, and its impact will not go unnoticed. However, with the passing of the torch to the Rock Shop, a new generations’ memories will remain alive.
