When it comes to self expression through vinyl, nobody does it better than Alexandria Henson. Through her music blog Glow of Sunrise, she photographs her latest finds at locations around Los Angeles. We caught up to chat about how she got into record collecting, and her plans for Glow of Sunrise…
How did you get into record collecting?
I crave music and my dad always had records, but never let me borrow them. Two of my friends got me into collecting them in college because I wanted to learn how to DJ on vinyl and produce music. Where I went to school in VA there were only 3 record stores nearby & I remember one day we went to the closest one in Newport News. I ended up getting a jazz & some Irish record after realising I didn’t own a record player. My producer friend ended up giving me one of his record players and ever since I have been addicted to collecting records and the adventures of crate digging.
What is it about vinyl that you love most?
I can always find a dope and decent condition record for under $10, whether it’s something I’m already familiar with or the cover art catches my eye. It’s a great way to discover new music on a budget. I’m also intrigued by turntablist scratching techniques and routines on vinyl, and sampling vinyl to create new music. Most importantly, I’m constantly reminded of my childhood with vinyl and that feeling of nostalgia that keeps me full.
Tell us more about Glow of Sunrise…
I started my music blog, Glow Of Sunrise as an escape from my side hustle because I always wanted to do something creative that involves what I really want in an ideal career. I love everything about art, music, fashion, modelling, helping and giving. I wanted to incorporate that into a project that blossoms into a brand. I believe it’s important to feel happy daily and I want everyone to experience that in some type of way. The best way to share my feelings and happiness right now is through modelling my record collection, curating a monthly FEELS list, showing others being vibrant about their vinyl collection, giving back and more. I have a lot of ideas that I want to do with Glow Of Sunrise that I can’t wait to share!
What are your desert island discs?
Hiroshima – Another Place, Sade – Diamond Life, and Roy Ayers – Everybody Loves The Sunshine.
Where do you love to go crate digging?
The Record Parlour in Hollywood, CA, Vintage Vinyl in St. Louis, MO, and the Beat Swap Meet in the Greater Los Angeles Area.
Which female musicians should be on our radar?
So many, but definitely Ari Lennox, Alina Baraz, Jean Deaux, Summer Walker, Kali Ulchis, Nai Palm, Carla G, Nia Andrews, Yaeji, Courtnie, MACK, Cameo Adele, Ill Camille, Helen Hailu, Suzi Analogue, Kelela, Jorja Smith, SZA, H.E.R., Chloe x Halle, Solange, Teyana Taylor, April from April + Vista, Ravyn Lenae, Georgia Anne Muldrow, Sudan Archives, Kari Faux, and Alexandria (not me). Of course any dope females across all genres and eras!
Follow Alexandria on Instagram here.
