Peaches Records

 

Peaches Records' recovery history embraces hope, hard work, and a love for New Orleans. The independently owned music store started in the 70’s and is described by co-owners Lillie and Lee Rea (the children of Shirani Rea) as “a family-owned, and independently operated music retail establishment.  We have proudly served the New Orleans community, and helped spread the music of our local artists for forty years.”

 

Lillie and Lee say, “Our motto is 'New Orleans grown, family-owned, and internationally known since 1975.' Relocating was never a consideration. The combination of the city’s music, food, and love of life are incomparable. The amazing people here are what makes it the incredible place we are blessed to call home.”

 

“During Katrina our business and homes were completely destroyed, we lost everything.  Our business flooded and was heavily looted.  People came in and took whole sections of the store’s inventory," recalls Lillie. She says two quotes inspired her to push through the disaster. First, Winston Churchill’s, “Never, never, never give up,” and second 2Pac’s, “If you can make it through the night, there’s a brighter day.”

 

The aspects Lillie and Lee find most important when it comes to planning for resiliency are “maintaining a positive attitude and having a strong work ethic.  Work hard and pray hard.  Hope for the best and prepare for the worst.  Do not rely on help from insurance companies to make you whole.  The biggest joke during Katrina was 'I’m from the government, I’m here to help.' The city’s success after the storm is the result of the dedication and hard work of our people.”