Try a Bob Seger or Jimi Hendrix latte while you shop for their music at Checker Records

HILLSDALE, MI – Browse through a vast collection of music while enjoying some coffee that rocks at Checker Records.

John and Robin Spiteri have owned the Hillsdale music store since the 1980s. As the music industry changed over the years, they knew they needed to make a change to keep the record store in business, Robin said.

"We would spend time in coffee shops, just for something to do," John said. "Borders, at the time, had coffee and books and we thought, 'Well, why can't we do that with coffee and music?'"

So, they started serving coffee in 2003, Robin said. They sell a range of lattes, teas, smoothies, frappes, cappuccinos and plain drip coffee.

"We do a medium, dark and a heavy caffeinated, light roast," Robin said. "There's about six to eight to choose from every day."

All the specialty drinks are named after famous rock stars – of course.

The Bob Seger latte is made with white chocolate and macadamia nut, after his song Nutbush City Limits. The Beatles also have a drink inspired by Strawberry Fields Forever, made with strawberry and white chocolate, John said.

Robin's favorite latte is the Jimi Hendrix, which is made with blackberry and caramel, after his song Purple Haze, she said.

"Some people pick the drink because they like the band," John said.

Baked goods are also a hit, especially the seasonal sweets, Robin said. Pumpkin muffins and rolls are popular during the fall, while the lemon bars are a favorite during the summer.

Bagels, coffee cake, scones, cookies and brownies can also be found in the store.

Aside from the food, people can also browse through the many records, CDs and T-shirts that Checker Records has to offer. There is a wide selection of music, ranging from Led Zeppelin to Sabrina Carpenter that would satisfy any generation.

The store also has a small musical equipment section, with guitar strings, picks, tuners and beginner instruments.

"Most of it is from listening to what our customers ask for," Robin said.

Checker Records, 28 S. Howell St. in Hillsdale, is open 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday.

More information can be found on its Facebook page.