Eddie O’Rourke at the CORNER STORE, PHILA.
by eddie on Sep.12, 2009, under E
I recently played a gig just outside of Philadelphia…one of my favorite cities. A short two hours from my place in New Jersey, but a great spot for a quick getaway. I’m especially fond of Philly’s “Old City”; steeped in history and so quaint. There’s Ben Franklin’s home, The Betsy Ross House, Elfreth’s Alley (oldest continuously occupied street in America) and, of course Philadelphia’s #1 attraction, Independence Hall. And that only begins to scratch the surface of sites to see.
On Market Street, down the block from Ben’s Home and Philly’s KYW-TV, CBS Channel 3, sits a men’s clothing store that has an Elvis connection without even trying. I’ve already written previously about Lansky Bros. in Memphis, TN. That cool haberdashery where a young Elvis Presley purchased all those “glad rags” for which he became infamous. Well, I found the Philadelphia equivalent to Lansky’s and it’s called The Corner Store (Suits, Ties & Pants) at 300 Market. A shop that mostly caters to black clientele, but is paradise for an Elvis Tribute Artist like me. The same sort of flashy, theatrical shirts, pants, suits and accessories that first attracted “The King” to Bernard Lansky’s store in the fifties. Gary, the owner, has gotten to know my taste in clothes and will often select a bunch of items for my consideration. Very often, he is spot-on! His staff is friendly, attentive and helpful and the prices are easy on your wallet. Whether you’re an Elvis Tribute Artist/Impersonator or just a guy who “Dares to Rock”, you’re gonna love “The Corner Store” in Philadelphia.