'Thanks to everybody for those great 50 years, and here’s to the next ones': Dungannon’s iconic music shop celebrates half a century with deals and memories

Northern Ireland’s oldest music shop has reached a major milestone, celebrating 50 years since it first opened its doors in the heart of Dungannon.

Stewart’s Music Shop on Irish Street officially welcomed customers for the first time on November 27, 1975. The shop was founded by Irish country music star and Dungannon native Gene Stuart, who sadly passed away in 2016 at the age of 72.

While the music world has evolved dramatically over the past five decades, the shop has continued to thrive. Today, Gene’s brother Raymond Stewart runs the business alongside his two daughters, keeping both the shop’s traditions and Gene’s memory alive.

Now known simply as Stewart’s Music Shop, the business remains a cornerstone of the town centre and a beloved destination for music lovers across Northern Ireland and further afield.

Marking the 50th anniversary, Raymond shared a video message on social media on this morning: “So today is the 27th of November 2025. It is exactly 50-years to the day since the doors of Gene Stewart’s Record Shop was open. I’ve decided to come in early today to open up myself. I’ve opened these doors a few times in those 50 years but today I feel it’s a wee bit special and it just feels good to be here.”

To celebrate, the shop is offering 15% off purchases for the anniversary and has announced that its Bank Friday sale will begin tomorrow.

Raymond added: “Thanks to everybody for those great 50 years, and here’s to the next ones. Hopefully we’ll see you around over the next couple of days.”

The anniversary announcement prompted an outpouring of congratulations, best wishes and fond memories of Gene and the shop.

One message, believed to be from Daniel O’Donnell (Dodlive page), read: “Congratulations Raymond and all at Stewart’s. Thanks for the great welcome I received in October when I launched my album there in the shop. Thanks for all the support through the years. Long may you continue.”

Another customer, Gary, shared his memories of visiting the shop through the decades: “Wonderful experiences of the Music Shop in Dungannon from its opening. Buying the latest singles in the 70s and rock albums in the 80s as well as sports gear in the early days. One of the few shops that sold skateboards and gear in the 70s when it was first the trend. Best wishes and happy anniversary to Raymond and thank you for the years of service.”

Sinead added her best wishes too: “Congratulations Stewart's Music Shop on this monumental 50-year milestone! Wishing many more years of success, music, and making memories that last a lifetime!”