I

f you think music is dying, then think again. In beautiful Camden Town, London, you can easily feel the power music permeating the seemingly endless rows of record stalls and stores that sell their merchandise with pride and love.

If you’re in London Town, head to the North West side of the city on a fine Sunday afternoon. Turn up the stereo, put on your earphones, ride the tube and have a wicked time in Camden Town.

Well, the last famous thing that happened in this area was the shocking death of Amy Winehouse, who was found dead in her Camden Town house where she had spent the last few years of her life. The demise of the singer, who was described as one of Britain’s greatest rising stars, having already published two albums, was an important happening in the district.

But apart from that tragic loss, the city corners hold a remarkable charm. It’s something you cannot miss while you’re visiting the busiest city on planet Earth.

Upon arrival at Camden Town tube station, you easily spot huge banners of I’m With You, Red Hot Chili Peppers’ latest album on the station’s walls and a street billboard with Bombay Bicycle Club’s A Different Kind of Fix advertisements located on the street side. Spots are normally booked for over a year and are filled with whatever promotion the interested music label is running at the time. It’s a planned promotional investment.

The district – made famous by its bargains for all kinds of products has its own gem in terms of musical experience. Through the windy and cloudy roads, you can easily see the festive atmosphere. Shoes, a second-hand market for clothes and probably a good deal of souvenirs of London are some of the things you will see along the way. Good bargains are also available everywhere.

But look carefully at the stash of stalls, as treasures are buried within them, lying and waiting to be picked up. Bring a passion for bargain hunting with you and you might end up bringing home records of The Housemartins, Rolling Stones or even Razorlight.

First stop will be the morning face of Electric Barbarellas, a music club which has seen many good artists come and play gigs for Londoners. In the day time, they turn the terrace of the club into a flea market. There’s a second-hand records stall built in the corner with vinyls and good bargain cds.

There were a few dudes trying their luck with Nirvana’s Nevermind vinyl. The price tag was £12.

“It’s rare, mate. I’m sorry that I cannot discount that for you, but feel free to pick other titles,” said the seller at the flea market. He was quit friendly, a typical record seller willing to share his personal taste if you asked for it, and he probably would be a good reference for choosing records.

Frankly, there are lots of music genres available on Camden Town’s streets. Resurrection Records is an up-and-comer. The small record shop dedicates its space to the Punk and Gothic genre. Most of the records were categorized under those two genres. A middle-age lady takes care of the semi-hidden basement shop located behind a shoe shop.

Another lady also runs a small record shop in the middle of bazaar where she speaks in deliberate tones about The Rolling Stones, The Who and even Bruce Springsteen. Her collection is more like ‘80s or early ‘90s – leftovers from that era, probably.

“Come, pick what you want, son” she said to a 20-something dude who stuck with a selection of Brit music from the 80s.

From the variety of record sellers in Camden Town, we can easily point out that music is crossing the age boundary well. Another example was a family spotted running a record shop featuring a wide selection of old-school music and the latest indie releases.

Dad was counting the stock; the son having lunch and the older daughter serving the customers. Rain struck hard and then that young lady scrambled to save their merchandise.

There was a wide selection of records available. Morrissey’s low-cost solo works blended well with The Beautiful South’s records. Or you might want to find Gun’s and Roses’ classic records – there are copies aplenty.

But, the best thing about the string of records shop in Camden Town is Music and Vinyl Exchange. The records shop probably is in the same league as the legendary Rough Trade. They’re a collector of records from each of Britain’s music eras. Name anything you can think of: Underworld, Oasis, DJ Shadow, Babyshambles, The Long Blondes, Morrissey or even one hit wonders like 911 are represented at the store. It’s a heaven for record collectors.

The large number of records shops and stalls in Camden Town shows us that music still holds a great power over us all. As a tourism spot on a Sunday morning or afternoon, Camden Town is a great choice. Just make sure you have your tote bag with you at all times and of course some cash.

It’s not 100 percent wrong that London Town is tipped as the darkest city on planet earth as rain falls readily and turns the optimistic mood created by the light into one of moody grayness. But then again, Camden Town gives leaves a brilliant bright spot on everyone’s mind.

For everyone, especially record collectors, a second visit is always worth it.