Legendary Toronto Music Store to Close After Nearly 50 Years

Casey Halston

Published: February 9, 2026 7:24 PM ET

Legendary Toronto Music Store to Close After Nearly 50 Years

A renowned music store in Toronto is set to close its doors after nearly 50 years of serving musicians and music lovers. Steve’s Music Store, located at 415 Queen St. W., has been a staple since its establishment in 1977. The store has offered a diverse selection of musical instruments, amplifiers, audio equipment, and accessories.

History of Steve’s Music Store

Founded by Steve Kirman, the original store began in Montreal in 1965. It expanded to other Canadian cities, including Ottawa and Toronto in the 1970s. The Toronto location became particularly popular among famous musicians, including Jack White, who often visited the store while in town for interviews and performances at MuchMusic.

Closure Announcement

On Sunday, the store chain announced its decision to liquidate inventory across all five of its locations. This includes significant discounts, with items at the Queen Street West location available for up to 50% off. According to reports, only the Montreal store will remain open post-liquidation.

Impact on the Local Music Community

The closure of Steve’s Music Store comes almost a year after Cosmo Music in Richmond Hill also shut down after 57 years of operation. This trend highlights a concerning pattern for brick-and-mortar stores in the area, as many retailers have struggled to survive in a challenging economic environment.

Business Landscape in Queen West

Once a vibrant hub for shopping and culture, Queen West has seen significant changes in recent years. According to the West Queen West Business Improvement Area (BIA), over 130 businesses have closed in the last three years. This rapid turnover reflects broader shifts in consumer behavior and the challenges faced by local retailers.