Art Risavy Sr.

Video

Oral History Information

Interview Date
Job Title
Founder
Company Name
Swing City

Art Risavy Sr. has always been fascinated with music. He had the idea of converting an old bowling alley into a music store in southern Illinois in the 1960s and Swing City Music was born. Fitting enough, his son and future partner was born a few years later. The store became “the place to go” to find musical products in and around the St. Louis area and became a favorite for roadies who cared for the gear of traveling bands. Art continued to service the customers as well as seeking ways to satisfy their various needs. As a craftsman he even created a small jewelry shop in the corner of the store to make requested music-themed belt buckles and rings.