Art Risavy Sr.

Art Risavy Sr. has always been deeply fascinated with music. In 1964, he had the visionary idea of converting an old, abandoned bowling alley into a thriving music store in southern Illinois, and thus, Swing City Music was born. Fittingly, his son and future business partner was born a few years later, setting the stage for a family legacy. The store quickly became “the place to go” to find a wide array of musical products in and around the St. Louis area, and it became a favorite for roadies who cared for the gear of traveling bands. Art continued to provide top-notch service to his customers, always seeking innovative ways to satisfy their diverse needs. As a skilled craftsman, he even created a small jewelry shop in the corner of the store, crafting custom music-themed belt buckles and rings upon request. Art was interviewed for NAMM in 2008 and again in 2024, marking the store's remarkable 60th anniversary.